Modern Terror Needs a Modern Response: Unveiling the 23rd NSG Counter-Terror International Seminar
Counter-Terror Operations Underway by NSG, Emphasis on Joint Responses
Welcome to the heart of India, New Delhi, where the battle against terrorism is being waged like never before. In response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, India has initiated Operation Sindoor, while simultaneously hosting the 23rd National Security Guard’s (NSG) Counter-Terror International Seminar. This two-day event, themed "Forging Collaboration and Innovation to Counter Terror Threats and Address the Complexities of Modern Terrorism," promises to boost inter-agency coordination and operational synergy.
Junior Home Minister Nityanand Rai officially inaugurated the seminar on Tuesday. With a strategic aim in mind, the seminar intends to revolutionize the way India tackles hybrid and transnational terror threats, thereby enhancing overall counter-terrorism (CT) and Counter-IED operations.
The NSG proudly proclaims its role as a "strategic fulcrum in India's layered security grid," leading the charge in converting "knowledge into kinetic capabilities." One of the seminar’s major highlights is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the NSG and police forces of states and Union Territories. This game-changing agreement will pave the way for a unified CT coordination standard operating procedure (SOP), institutionalized joint training, and improved First Responder interoperability across India, aiming for a "synchronized national response."
The seminar boasts the participation of delegations from over 17 countries, including the USA, Russia, Japan, Israel, Germany, and Indonesia, alongside senior officials from State Police Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the Indian Army, and intelligence agencies. This eclectic gathering is expected to foster a crucial exchange of global best practices, aligning with the spirit of "One Nation, One Response."
The seminar is structured around five high-impact thematic panels, addressing a wide range of topics, from international CT case studies and national threat responses to NSG-State synergy, utilizing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) and drones for CT operations, advanced C-IED strategies, and more. The event culminates with the launch of the 35th edition of 'The Bombshell,' NSG’s flagship Counter-IED journal.
To recognize indigenous innovation, the C-IED Innovator Awards will be presented on June 11 by Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan. These awards honor cost-effective solutions from various sectors, aiming to boost India's homegrown counter-terrorism technologies. An investiture ceremony was also held to felicitate recipients of the President’s Police Medal, honoring the bravery and dedication of personnel in counter-terror operations.
The NSG continues to reiterate the core message behind the seminar: "Modern Terror Needs a Modern Response," emphasizing India’s resolve to be responsive, resilient, and united in the face of evolving security challenges. With this seminar, India shows that it is ready to take charge, adapt, and innovate in the battle against terrorism.
During the two-day event, discussions on the role of sports-betting regulations in countering money laundering through terror funding will be facilitated, shedding light on the intersection of crime-and-justice and sports. Meanwhile, representatives from major sports associations will participate in panel discussions, emphasizing the importance of general-news coverage in displaying the positive impact sports can have on communities, furthering the "One Nation, One Response" spirit.
