A uniform ATS structure nationwide was emphasized at the ‘Anti-Terrorism Conference-2025’ organized by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
- NIA has developed a common ATS framework and shared it with state police forces.
- NIA’s Updated Crime Manual, Organised Crime Network Database and Lost and Recovered Weapon Database were also unveiled.
Significance of Common ATS Framework
- Evolving Nature of Terrorism: Terrorism is becoming more complex, trans‑regional, and technology‑driven, using tools such as AI, blockchain transactions.
- Uniformity and Standardisation Across States: Uniform Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) can ensure consistent preparedness and quick response across states (investigation to prosecution and counter-action).
- Improved Inter‑Agency Coordination: Between state police, central agencies like NIA, intelligence units such as Intelligence Bureau (IB), Research and Analysis Wing (RAW).
- Operational Efficiency: Standard training, databases, technology use and similar capabilities in all units.
India's National Anti-terrorism Framework
- National Agencies: NIA, National Security Guard, IB, etc.
- National database: National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID), under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for Real-time intelligence and data access for intelligence coordination; National Integrated Database on Arrested Narco Offenders (NIDAAN).
- Preventing Terror Financing: Terror Funding and Fake Currency Cell (TFFC) under NIA; Combating Financing of Terrorism (CFT) Cell under Ministry of Home Affairs, etc.
