21 Internal security issues in the country can broadly becategorized as follows: (a) Terrorism in the hinterland of the country (b) Left Wing Extremism (LWE) incertain areas (€) Insurgency in the North Eastern (NE) States (d) Cross-Border terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir (O&K) 2.2 During the year 2020, the internal security situation in the country remained under control. ‘The Government of India (Gol) accorded due priority to enhancing internal security. The principal focus on the internal security front remained on countering terrorism in J&K, improving the security scenario in the NEStates, combating Left Wing Extremism and maintaining peace in the hinterland of the country. While the details in respect of J&K are covered in Chapter-XIV, the security situation in respectof (a), (b) and (c) areasund 23 Capacity Bui Terrorism ling in Countering (a) As State Police Forces are first responders to any terrorist incident; capacity building of State Police Forces is done by the Central Government through regular training in the area of intelligence collection, response to terror incidents and investigation. (b) The names of terrorist organizations or individuals, involved in terrorism. are listed in the First Schedule and Fourth Schedule of the INTERNAL SECURITY Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 respectively. The Central Government has declared 42 organizations and 31 individuals as terrorist organizations and individual terrorists, respectively so far. (©) The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) actively participated in the Joint Working Group Meetings on Counter Terrorism with foreign countries like BRICS member States and United States of America (USA). (d) The Law Enforcement Agencies keep a watch on activities of fundamentalist organizations or groups, having a bearing on security, peace and public tranquility of the country and take action as per extant provisions of law, wherever necessary, Institutions to Strengthen Internal Security A. National Investigation Agency (NIA) 24 The NIA was constituted under the NIA ‘Act of 2008 as a special agency for investigation and prosecution of offences specified in the Schedule of NIA Act. NIA is the premier investigation agency at the Central level to investigate terrorism related cases including terrorism financing cases. The NIA, since its inception, has registered 363 cases (59 cases in 2020 till 31.12.2020), out of which, 286 cases have been chargesheeted. Trial has concluded in 69 cases, of which 63 cases have resulted in conviction.B, National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) 25 The NATGRID is conceived to be a framework, which will leverage Information Technology to connect User Agencies (Gecurity/Law Enforcement) with designated data providers in order to enhance the country’s counter terrorism capabilities. The Project was approved in 2012 and %1002.97 crore has been sanctioned for key elements of the NATGRID Project. The NATSTAR Phase- (Connectors) has been developed in-house by NATGRID and a beta version has been launched on 31.08.2020. ‘The civil construction work at Bengaluru and New Delhihas been completed. C. Combating Financing of Terrorism Cell (CFT Cell) 2.6 Combating Financing of Terrorism (CFT) Cell has been set up in MHA which deals with policy matters on CPT and Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN). 2.7 FICN Coordination Group (FCORD) has been formed by MHA to share intelligence/ information among security agencies of the States/Centre to counter the problem of circulation of fake currency notes. 2.8 A Terror Funding and Fake Currency (TFFC) Cell has been constituted in the NIA to conduct focused investigation of terror funding and fake currency cases, 29 A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between India and Bangladesh to prevent and counter smuggling and circulation of fake currency notes. Training, programmes are conducted for the Police officials of Nepal and Bangladesh to sensitize them about smuggling /counterfeiting of Indian currency. Intelligence and security agencies of Centre and States work in tandem to keep a close watch on elements involved in terror funding activities and take action as per law. 2.10 India is a Member of Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an inter-Governmental Body, responsible for setting global standards on anti-money laundering (AML) and CFT since 25.06.2010. India is also a member of FATF Styled Regional Bodies (FSRBs) such as Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (FAG) and Asia Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG). India also participates actively in the meetings of the BIMSTEC Sub-group on Combating the Financing of Terrorism. of Holders of High Public Offices 2.11 The threat from terrorist and militant groups makes it imperative to provide adequate security to holders of high public offices and other persons under threat. As the threat to security of such individuals is a dynamic phenomenon, assessment of their security requirement is done by MHA from time to time. ‘The security arrangements are assessed by a High Level Committee to effectively counter the designs of terrorists and militants and thereby ensure maintenance of security, public order and peacein the country. Securi 212 The State Governments are also constantly sensitized by MHA about security issues concerning holders of high public offices and their movements. In this regard, advisories are communicated to them regularly, as required. Special training courses for police commandos are conducted in training institutions of National Security Guard (NSG), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to equip them for such security duties. 2.13 The revised and updated version of the Yellow Book (Guidelines dealing with Personal Protection) was issued by MHA in February, 2019.Airport Security/Delhi Metro Security 2.14 In order to strengthen the security of the aviation sector, acquisition of modern security gadgels, improved security procedures and adequate deployment of security personnel at airports has been given close attention. Administrative mechanisms have been put in place to deal with any emergent situation in consultation with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), CISF and others. Counter Terrorist Contingency Plan (CTCP) for airports has been prepared and circulated to all States /UTs for implementation. 215 Security for Delhi Metro is provided by CISF undera robust security framework. Security of Vital Installations 216 The security of vital installations in the country is primarily the responsibility of the Union Ministry/Department or the State Government concerned. MHA advises them on security norms and requirements of vital installations periodically, based on the review of existing arrangements by the Central Security Agencies. Additionally, threat inputs received about the vital installations are promptly shared with the State Government/UT Administration / Ministries concerned. Based on the requests received from the Organization/Ministries, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) are deployed for security of certain vital installations. Security categorization of vital installations has been reviewed, and they have been re-categorized as A,B,C, Dand E, in view of their threat vulnerability and to include a wider range of vital installations. Now the number of vital installationsis 777. Security of Religious Shrines/Places 2.17 The security of religious shrines/ places in the country is primarily the responsibility of the State Governments/UT Administrations concerned. However, MHA issues advisories and alerts for strengthening the security of such religious shrines/places to the State Governments/UT Administrations whenever any specific threat inputs are received or strengthening of security is warranted. ‘National Security Clearance 2.18 Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is the nodal Ministry for granting security clearance in sensitive sectors before issue of licence, permit, permission, contract etc. to companies, bidders and individuals by the administrative Ministry. The objective of national security clearance is to evaluate potential security threats, including economic threats, and provide risk assessment before clearing investment and project proposals in key, sensitive sectors. The aim is to strike a balance between the imperative of national security on the one hand and facilitating ease of doing business and promoting investment in the country on the other. A Committee of Officers meets every week in MHA for timely decisions on security clearance proposals. 749 proposals related to security clearance were disposed of during the period between 01.04.2020 to 31.01.2021. Annual DGsP/IGsP Conference 219 The 55th Annual DGsP/ IGsP Conference was held at New Delhi from 02.12.2020 to 05.12.2020. The conference was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Home Minister on 02.12.2020, The Hon'ble Prime Minister presided over the proceedings of the Conference from 2.12.2020 to 5.12.2020. Detailed deliberations were held on several critical issues related to national security, counter-terrorism, cyber security and significantaspectsof policing.Government's Approach and Action Plan to deal with LWE 220 As per the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India, subjects of ‘Police’ and ‘Public order’ are with the State Governments. Gol has been supplementing the efforts of States affected by LWE. Gol has adopted an integrated and holistic approach to deal with LWE. insurgency, by addressing the areas of security and development, and promoting good governance simultaneously. To achieve this, a National Policy and Action Plan has been put in place thatadopts a multi-pronged strategy in the areas of security, development, ensuring rights and entitlements of local communities etc. 221 The security related measures include providing CAPEs, sanction of India Reserve (IR) battalions, modernization and upgradation of the State Police, reimbursement of security related expenditure under the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme, strengthening of Special Intelligence Branches and Special Forces of the States and fortification of Police Stations (PSs) under the Special Infrastructure Scheme (GIS), providing helicopters for anti-LWE operations, assistance in training of State Police through the Ministry of Defence (MoD), Central Police Organizations and Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), sharing of intelligence, facilitating inter State coordination, ‘community policing and civicactionete. 2.22 The underlying philosophy is to enhance the capacity of State Governments to tackle the LWE menace inaconcerted manner. 223 Simultaneously, focused attention is also paid to development. Gol has launched special schemes for improving basic infrastructure like road and telecom connectivity and skill upgradation ete. To give further impetus, funds are provided for filling critical infrastructure gaps in public infrastructure and services, which are of urgent nature, under Special Central Assistance (SCA) Scheme for the most affected LWE districts, 2.24 Resolute implementation of the National Policy and Action Plan by the Government has resulted in unprecedented improvement in the LWE scenario across the country. The last six years have seen a significant decline in LWE violence as well as the geographical spread of LWE. The declining trend which started in 2011 continues in 2020 as well. There has been an overall 41% reduction in violent incidents (1,136 to 665) and 54% reduction (397 to 183) in LWE related deaths in 2020 as compared to 2013. In comparison to 2019, the year 2020 also saw the same level of violence with marginal decline (670 to 665) in incidents of violence and the resultant deaths by 9% (202 to 183). The casualties to Security Forces declined by 17% (52 to 43). At the same time, the developmental outreach by Gol hhas seen an increasingly large number of LWE. cadres shunning the path of violence and returning to the mainstream. 2.25 — In 2020, Chhattisgarh with 315 incidents and 111 deaths remains the worst affected State, followed by Jharkhand (199 incidents and 39 deaths), Odisha (50 incidents and 9 deaths), Maharashtra (30 incidents and 8 deaths) and Bihar (26 incidents and 8 deaths). 2.26 The overall improvement in the LWE scenario can be attributed to greater presence and increased capacity of the Security Forces across the LWE affected States, better operational strategy and better monitoring of development schemes in affected areas. The State-wise break up of LWE violence profile is givenin the table below.State-wise Extent of LWE Violence during 2011-2020 sae] om | am | ama | am | ms | a6 | om | om | am | om | 22] | 2} a} 2] el} 4) 4} 2] 2] 4] 2] ale] 4] 2] 2] a] 4 Z 227 geographical spread of LWE violence 2.28 With the Maoists forced to remain on the has also been shrinking considerably. In 2020, LWE violence was reported from 226 PSs in 53 districts spread across 9 States as compared to 328 PSs in 76 districts spread over 10 States in 2013. The arc of violence has been considerably restricted with just 30 districts accounting 88% of the LWE violence. The Communist Party of India (CPI) (Maoist) continues to be the most potent among the various LWE outfits in the country and accounted for more than 86% of total LWE, violent incidents and 96% of resultant deaths. Amidst increasing reverses, the CPI (Maoist) has been making efforts to expand to new areas along, inter-State borders without any significant success. back-foot in most States, itis time to consolidate the gainsin order to end this menace once and for all Specific Measures taken by the Central Government to Combat LWE 2.29 Ban on CPI (Maoist) : The CPI (Maoist), which is the major LWE organization responsible for most incidents of violence/casualties, has been included in the Schedule of Terrorist Organizations, along with all its formations and front organizations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. 2.30 Mechanism: In order to counter the growing, Strengthening the Intelligencechallenge of LWE activities, several steps have been taken to strengthen and upgrade the capabilities of intelligence agencies at the Central and State level. This includes intelligence sharing through Multi Agency Centre (MAC) at the Central level and State Multi Agency Centre (GMAC) at the State level on a 24x7 basis. Other steps taken to strengthen the intelligence mechanism include setting up of Joint Command and Control Centre at Jagdalpur and Gaya, strengthening of technical and human intelligence, better cooperation amongst SPs, district police and intelligence agencies, thrust on generation of real time intelligence and creation/strengthening of State Intelligence Bureaus (SIBs) in the LWE affected States for which Central assistance is provided through the Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS). 231 Better Inter-State Coordination: The area of operations of CPI (Maoist) cadres is not confined to a single State but is spread over several States. Therefore, better inter-State coordination at various levels on a number of aspects is essential. Gol has taken a number of steps to improve inter-State meetings and interactions between the bordering districts of LWEaffected States. 232 Tackling the problem of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs): Majority of casualties to security forces in anti-LWE operations are caused by IEDs. MHA continues to support extensive counter-IED capacity building efforts of CAPFs and State Police Forces. MHA has also issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on ‘Issues related to Explosives/IEDs/Landmines in LWE Affected Areas’ and circulated to all stakeholders to promote best practices in IED Management. 2.33. IR/Specialized India Reserve Battalion (SIRB): The LWE affected States have been’ sanctioned 66 IR/SIRBs mainly to strengthen security apparatus at their level and also to enable the States to provide gainful employment to youth, particularly in the LWE affected areas. Of these, 54 have been raised. 2.34 Schemes of MHA in LWE affected areas: The following Schemes are being implemented by MHA inLWEaffected areas: (a) Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme: Gol reimburses the LWE affected State Governments the security related expenditure incurred on ex-gratia payment to the family of civilian/SFs killed in LWE violence, training and operational needs of security forces, insurance of police personnel, compensation to the surrendered LWE cadres, community policing, village defence committees and publicity material. The scheme has been further strengthened with the increased outlay. In addition, new items like compensation for incapacitated security personnel and property damage have been included for the first time in 2017, The SRE Scheme aims at augmentation of capacity of LW affected States to fight the LWE menace. In the financial year (FY) 2019-20, 367.26 crore has been released. In the FY 2020-21, 304.49 crore has been released. 8367.26 crore has been released. In the FY 2020-21, 7304.49 crore has been released. (b) Special Infrastructure Scheme including Construction of 250 Fortified PSs in LWE affected States: The scheme is implemented for strengthening of the State Intelligence Branches (SIBs) and SFs of the States as well as fortification of 250 PSs @ 82.5 crore per PS. The total outlay of the scheme is 1006.00 crore (ie. 2604 crore as Central Share (60%) and 402 crore as State Share). $152.67 crorehas been released under the scheme as advance. (c) Fortified Police Stations Scheme: Under this scheme 400 Fortified PSs were sanctioned. ‘The scheme is on the verge of completion and all 400 fortified PSs have been constructed. (d) Civic Action Programme (CAP): Under this Scheme, financial grants are provided to CAPFs to undertake various welfare activities in the LWE affected areas. This ‘Scheme aims to bridge the gap between the local population and SFs. 220 crore have been released to CAPFs in FY 2019-20 and &7.22 crore have been released in the current FY. (e) Special Central Assistance (SCA) for 30 most LWE affected districts: Under the scheme, funds are provided to State to fill the critical gaps in Public Infrastructure and Services, which are of emergent nature and require immediate action. €2148.24 crore has been released to the States covered under SCA during the last 3 years. In the current FY 2020-21, %450 crore has been released. (8 Assistance to Central Agencies for LWE Management Scheme (ACALWEMS): The Scheme has been approved with a total outlay of 2150 crore @ %50 crore per annum. Under the scheme, funds are provided to the CAPEs/ Central agencies for hiring of helicopters by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), payment of bills pertaining to air-lift provided by Indian Air Force (IAF) for counter LWE operations and for infrastructure support to CAPFs. During FY 2019-20, %109 crore was released under ACALWEM Scheme. In the current FY 2020-21, 869.35 crore has been released, Monitoring Mechanism 2.35 MHA monitors the LWE situation on a regular basis at the level of the Union Home Minister, Home Secretary and Special Secretary/Additional Secretary. A Review Group, Chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, also reviews the LWE situation and progress of developmental schemes in LWE affected areas through meetings and Video Conferences with the representatives of Central Ministries/ Departments concerned and State Governments, 2.36 Schemes/Initiatives being implemented by different Ministries/Departments in the LWEaffected areas (a) For rapid development in the LWE affected States, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has given General Approval for diversion of forest land for infrastructure related projects in 14 categories relating to schools, dispensaries/ hospitals, electrical and telecommunication lines, drinking water projects, water/rain harvesting. structures, minor irrigation canals, non-conventional sources of energy, skill upgradation/ vocational training centre, rural roads. The General Approval was earlier for diversion of up to 5 ha of forest land, which has been increased to 40 ha for LWE areas, with validity up to 31.12.2020 in terms of section 2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, (b) Gol has been implementing Road Requirement Plan (RRP-1) since 26.02.2009 for improving road connectivity in 34 LWE affected districts of 8 States namely, Andhra Pradesh (now Andhra Pradesh and Telangana), Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh. The Scheme envisages construction of 5,362 km of roads and 08 critical bridges at the estimated cost of &8673 crore. Up to 31.03.2021, a total of 4,981 km ofroads and 06 critical bridges have been completed. (©) The Government approved a Centrally Sponsored Scheme namely “Road Connectivity Project for LWE Affected Areas” on 28.12.2016 to improve the rural road connectivity in the most LWE affected districts. The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) is the sponsoring/ implementing Ministry of the Project. The scheme envisaged construction/upgradation of 5412 km road and 126 bridges/Cross Drainage works at an estimated cost of 211,725 crore in 44 LWE affected districts. Sanction of 9,268 km has already been conveyed to the States. Of these, 3,505 km of road has been completed. (d) In order to address telecom connectivity issues in LWE areas, a scheme for installation of Mobile Towers is being implemented by the Department of ‘Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications. 2,335 Mobile ‘Towers have been operationalized in Phase-I of the scheme and installation of 4,072 Mobile ‘Towers has been approved in Phase-II of the Project. Of these, 2,542 towers are under tender process. (e) To protect the rights of Scheduled Tribes (GTs) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers, title deeds are given to the people under the Forest Rights Act. Till now, 16,22,128 title deeds have been distributed to individuals and community in 10 LWE affected States, namely, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. This will ensure their livelihood, will provide food security and protect their rights on the forestland. () Gothas been implementing a special scheme, namely, ‘Skill Development in 47 LWE. affected districts’ for creating infrastructure and providing employment linked skill training to youths in LWE affected areas. The Scheme of Skill Development envisages construction/ establishment of one ITI each in 47 districts and two Skill Development Centers (SDCs) each in 34 districts. (g) Eleven LWE affected districts which were severely affected did not have Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs). The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education has sanctioned 11 new KVs for these districts. Of these, 09 new KVs have been opened and the remaining 02 will be ‘opened shortly. Similarly 06 new Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas have been sanctioned. Allof these have been opened. (h) For financial inclusion of the local populace in LWE affected areas, particularly the 30 most LWE affected districts, new bank branches, ATMs, Banking Correspondents (BCs) and Post Offices are being opened by the Department of Financial Services and the Department of Posts. 1,170 Bank Branches, 959 ATMs, 12,628 BCs and 1,769 new Post, Offices have been opened in most LWE affected districts in the last5 years. (i) For imparting quality education to students in tribal areas, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) is opening Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS). 217 EMRS have been sanctioned by MoTA and 46 are in the process of approval for the 55 tribal- dominated LWE affected districts. OF these, 78are functional. 2.37 Gol has been addressing the menace holistically by adopting the multi-prongedapproach and the results have been encouraging. LWE theatre has witnessed a consistent decline in violence and considerable shrinkage in geographical spread in the last 6 years. However, it is clear that the Maoists do not want root causes like underdevelopment addressed in a meaningful manner since they resort to targeting school buildings, roads, railways, bridges, health infrastructure, communication facilities ete. in a major way. They wish to keep the population in their areas of influence marginalized, to perpetuate their outdated ideology Consequently, the process of development has been set back by decades in many parts of the country under LWE influence. This needs to be recognized by the civil society and the media to build pressure on the Maoists to eschew violence, join the mainstream and recognize the fact that the socio-economic and political dynamics and aspirations of 21st Century India are far removed from the Maoist world-view. The Government is optimistic of eradicating the LWE problem through the strategic vision articulated above. NORTHEAST Introduction 238 The North Eastern Region (NER) comprises eight States viz. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. This region is culturally and ethnically diverse, having more than 200 ethnic groups with distinct languages, dialects and socio-cultural identities. The Region covers 7.97% of the country’s geographical area and 3.78% of its population. It has 5,484 km of international border viz. Bangladesh (1,880 km), Myanmar (1,643 km), China (1,346 km), Bhutan’ (616 km) and Nepal (99 km). The terrain, the state of socio-economic development and historical factors suchas language/ ethnicity, tribal rivalry, migration, control over local resources and long and porous international borders have been the causes of security situation in the NE States. This has resulted in violence, extortion and diverse demands by various Indian Insurgent Groups (Gs) which maintain safe havens/camps in neighbouring countries. Basic data regarding areaand population of NEStatesisas under: States ‘Area (sq km) | Population (as per census 2011) | Density of Population Arunachal Pradesh | 83,743 13,83,727 7 Assam 78,438 3,12,05,576 398 Manipur 22,327 28,558,794 15 Meghalaya 22,429 29,66,889 132 Mizoram 21,081 10,97,206 52 Nagaland 16,579 19,78,502 119 Sikkim 7,096 610,577 86 Tripura 10,486 36,73,917 350 Total NE 2,62,179 4,57,72,188 173 All India 32,87,263 1,21,08,54,977 382Measures taken by Government to deal with Insurgency inNER 239 Though Law & Order is a State subject, the Central Government is supplementing efforts of State Governments for curbing the illegal and unlawful activities of insurgent groups of NE States through various measures. These include deployment of CAPFs, reimbursement of Security Related Expenditure (SRE) to the State Governments under SRE Scheme, Central assistance to the State Governments for modernization of State Police Forces, sanction of IR Battalions, banning the Unlawful Associations operating in NE Region under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA) and declaring specific areas/States as ‘disturbed areas' under Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA). 2.40 To deal with armed insurgency in NE, the entire State of Nagaland, Assam and Manipur (except Imphal Municipal area) are under AFSPA, Due to the improved security situation, AFSPA has been removed completely from State of Tripura with effect from 22.05.2015 and Meghalaya with effect from 01.04.2018. In Arunachal Pradesh, area under AFSPA has been reduced from 16 PSs/Outposts areas bordering Assam to 04 PSs, besides 03 districts of Tirap, Changlang and Longding. The notifications declaring Manipur and Assam as “disturbed area” have been issued by the State Governments. 241 Tocurb the illegal and unlawful activities by insurgent groups of NE States, 16 insurgent organizations have been declared “unlawful associations” and/or “terrorist organizations” under UAPA. A list of unlawful associations/ terroristorganizations of NERisat Annexure IIL 242 Central Government has deployed CAPS to aid the State authorities for carrying out counter insurgency operations and providing security to vulnerable institutions and installations. 488 Coys of CAPFs are deployed for border guarding duties along the international borders of Nepal, Bhutan, China, Bangladesh and Myanmar with NE States. 393 Coys of CAPFs are deployed in the NE States for Internal Security and Counter Insurgency Operations. Further, Gol is assisting the State Governments foraugmenting and upgrading their police forces to deal with insurgency. To this end, 61 IR Battalions have been sanctioned for the NE States. These include 11 Battalions each for Assam, Manipur and Tripura, 07 cach for Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, 06 for ‘Meghalaya, 05 for Mizoram and 03 for Sikkim. 243 The Central Government has been pursuinga policy of talks/negotiations with such insurgent groups which abjure violence, lay down arms and seek solutions for their problems peacefully within the framework of the Constitution of India. As a result, a number of outfits have come forward for talks with the Government and have entered into Suspension of Operations (S00) and some of them have signed Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) and dissolved themselves. Those who are not in talks are being dealt with by the CAPFs, Armed Forces and the State Police through Counter Insurgency Operations. 244 The Central Government has been implementing a scheme for reimbursement of Security Related Expenditure (SRB) for the States seriously affected by insurgency since 1995. The scheme is being implemented in all NE States except Mizoram and Sikkim. Under the scheme, fund is shared between Centre and State in the ratio of 90:10 and expenditure incurred by NEStates on various security related items, including raising of IR Battalions, logistics provided to the CAPFs/ Army deployed in the State, ex-gratia grant and gratuitous relief to the victims of extremist violence, 75% of the expenditure incurred on POL (petrol, oil and lubricants) in operations, 100% of exgratia payment to CAPFs personnel, honorarium paid to Village Guards/Village Defence Committees/Home Guards deployed for security purposes, expenditure incurred on maintenance of designated camps set up for groups with whom the Central/State Government have entered into agreement for S0Os and expenditure incurred on surrendered insurgents and their rehabilitation is being reimbursed. Reimbursement made to NE States under SRE scheme during the last five years and current FY (up to31.12.2020) isat Annexure IV. 2.45 MHA has been implementing a scheme for Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation of insurgents in NE with effect from 01.01.1998, to wean away the misguided youth who strayed into the fold of insurgency and later find themselves trapped into that net. The Scheme also seeks to ensure that insurgents, who have surrendered, do not find it attractive to join insurgency again. The scheme has been revised with effect from 01.04.2018 for six NE States (except Sikkim and Mizoram). Under the policy, following benefits are to be ‘extended to surrendered insurgents: (a) An immediate grant of 84 lakhs to each surrenderee, which is to be kept in the name of the surrenderee as Fixed Deposit in a bank for a period of 3 years. This money can be utilized as collateral security / Margin Money against loan to be availed by the surrenderee fromthe bank for self-employment; (b) Payment of stipend of %6,000/- per month to ‘each surrenderce fora period of three years; (2) Incentives for weapons/ammunition surrendered by the insurgents. (d) Vocational training to the surrenderees for self-employment. (e) Funds for construction of rehabilitation camps. 90% of total expenditure incurred on rehabilitation of surrenderees will be reimbursed under SRE Scheme to NE States. Pursuant to this policy of the Government, ‘many cadres of various insurgent groups of NE Region have surrendered and joined the ‘mainstream of the society. 2.46. In order to win the hearts of local populace and boost the image of armed forces among the common people, Army and CAPFs conduct Civic Action Programme. Under this Programme, various welfare/developmental activities are undertaken like holding of medical camps, sanitation drives, sports meet, distribution of study material to children, minor repairs of school buildings, roads, bridges and running adult education centres ete. Details of funds released to CAPEs/Army under Civic Action Programme during the last five years and current financial year (up to 31.12.2020) are at Annexure V. 247 In order to provide connectivity to remote areas of NER, Helicopter subsidy scheme is being implemented by MHA in the NE States of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur. It further aims to provide affordable passenger transport in NER, evacuation during natural calamities and for urgent medical evacuation etc. MHA bears 75% of total cost of operation after deducting passenger recovery or flat 20% of actual operation cost, whichever is more. For the purpose of restricting subsidy, annual ceiling of flying hours has been fixed for the helicopter service operating in these States as tabulated below:NE State Type of Helicopter No. of flying hours sanctioned per annum Tripura Dauphin 480 Arunachal Pradesh Ist MIA72 960 2nd MI-172 1200 Bell 412 1300 Sikkim Bell-407 1200 Meghalaya Dauphin 720 ‘Nagaland Ist Bell 412 1200 24 Bell 412 Mizoram Dauphin 1200 Manipur Bell 412 744 Year-wise details of expenditure/fund released for Helicopter Services in NE States during the last five years and current FY (up to 31.12.2020) is at Annexure VI. Security Situation in North East 248 Thesecurity situation in the NEStates has improved substantially since 2014. The year 2020 recorded the lowest insurgency incidents and casualties among the civilians and security forces during the last two decades. Compared to 2014, there has been an 80% reduction in insurgency incidents in 2020, Similarly, in this period, SFs casualties have come down by 75% and civilian deaths by 99%. 249 The year 2020 saw a decline of about 27% in insurgency incidents (2019 - 223, 2020 - 162) and 72% in casualties of civilian and SFs personnel (2019 - 25, 2020 - 07) compared to 2019. Counter Insurgency Operations led to neutralization of 21 insurgents, arrest of 646 insurgents and recovery of 305 weapons in 2020 in the region. A total of 2,644 cadres of insurgent outfits of NE States surrendered their arms in 2020 and joined the mainstream society. 2.50 The profile of violence in NER as a whole since 2014s given below: Year | Inciden| Extrem | Extrem | SFs_ | Civili Arms | Arms {Persons ts ists ist | killed | ans ist |surrend |recover |iigna killed arrested killed |surrend | ered ed P ped ered 2014 824 1s1 | 1934 20 212 291 1st | 10a | 369 2015 | 574 149 | 1900 46 46 143, 9 828 267 2016 | 484 87 1202 Ww 48 267 93, 605 168 2017 | 308 57 995 12 37 130 7 405 102 2018 | 252 4 804 4 23 161 58 420 n7 2019 | 223 12 936 4 a 158 67 312 108 2020 | 162 2 646 05 o2 | 2644" | 434 | 305 68 * provisional figures2.51 While the States of Mizoram, Sikkim and. ‘Tripura remained by and large peaceful, there isa marked improvement in the security situation in other States of the region. In 2020, insurgency- related violence declined by 42% in Arunachal Pradesh, 12% in Assam, 23% in Manipur and 45% in Nagaland compared to 2019. The State-wise violence profile of NE States since 2014 is at Annexure VIL. Assam 252 United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) (pro talks) and Karbi Longri NC Hills Liberation Front (KLNLF) are under SoO agreement with Gol and/or Government of Assam. However, ULFA (Independent) is active in parts of Assam. 2.53 UPDS (United People’s Democratic Solidarity) signed MoS on 25.11.2011 and subsequently dissolved itself, DHD (Dima Halam Daogah) signed MoS on 08.10.2012 and subsequently dissolved itself. 2.54 In a surrender ceremony held on 23.01.2020 at Guwahati, 644 cadres of various outfits (viz. ULFA/I-50, National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) - 8, Kamtapur Liberation Organization (KLO) -6, Rava National Liberation Front - 13, Communist Party of India/Maoist - 1, National Santhal Liberation Army - 87, Adivasi Dragon Fighter - 178 and National Liberation Front of Bengali - 301) surrendered their arms. A total of 177 arms, 52 grenades, 71 bombs, 3 rocket launchers, 306 detonators, 1.93 kg explosive and 1,686 rounds of ammunition were deposited by them. 255 Ina major development towards ending, over 50 years of Bodo crisis, a MoS was signed on. 27.01.2020 between Gol, Government of Assam. and representatives of Bodo Groups including, National Democratic Front of Bodoland/ Progressive (NDFB/P), NDFB/Ranjan Diamary, NDEB/Saoraigwra, United Bodo Peoples’ Organization (UBPO) and All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) at New Delhi. Following the settlement, 1,615 cadres of NDFB groups surrendered their arms on 30.01.2020. The NDFB groups disbanded themselves on 9th - 10th ‘March, 2020. 2.56 In 2020, insurgency-related incidents declined by 12% in Assam, as compared to 2019 [2019 - 17, 2020 - 15]. There have been no SFs deaths in the violent incidents in the State, in 2020. Counter Insurgency Operations led to neutralization of 05 insurgents, arrest of 79 insurgents and recovery of 73 weapons in the State in 2020. ULFA/ outfits accounted for about 47% of the insurgency incidents in the State and was involved in 07 violent incidents during 2020. Tripura 2.57 The State of Tripura has remained peaceful. The activities of main UG outfits viz. National Liberation Front of Twipra/ Biswamohan (NLFT/B) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) have been contained. 2.58 A MoS between Gol, Government of Tripura and National Liberation Front of Twipra led by Sh. Sabir Kumar Debbarma (NLFT/SD) ‘was signed on 10.08.2019. As per MoS, NLFT(SD) has agreed to abjure the path of violence, join the mainstream and abide by the Constitution of India. Asa result, 88 cadres surrendered with 44 arms ina surrender ceremony held on 13.08.2019. 2.59 Inorder to arrive at a permanent solution to the long standing issue of rehabilitating the Bru families, a new agreement was signed between Gol, Government of Mizoram, Government of Tripura and representatives ofBru migrants on 16.01.2020 in New Delhi. As per this Agreement, Bru migrants will be settled in Tripura and would be given financial assistance/aid by Gol for their resettlement in Tripura and all round development, through a package of around 661.00 crore. Also, each resettled family would be given30x40 sq. ft. piece of land for construction of house in Tripura in addition to the assistance of a fixed deposit of &4 lakhs, %5,000/- cash assistance per month for two years, free ration for two years and &1.5 lakh for housing assistance to each family. Meghalaya 2.60 ‘The major insurgent outfits presently active in the State are Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) and Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNL), 2.61 MoS between Gol, the State Government of Meghalaya and the Achik National Volunteer Council (ANVC) and ANVC/B was signed on 24.09.2014. The ANVC and ANVC/B have dissolved on 15.12.2014. 2.62 In 2020, there have been 05 insurgency- related incidents in the State and no casualties of civilian and SFs personnel in violent incidents reported in the State. There has been no kidnapping/abduction case in 2020 in the State. Nagaland 263 The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) split in 1988 into groups - NSCN-(IM) led by Isak C Swu and Th. Muivah, and NSCN(K) led by SS Khaplang, a Naga from Myanmar. Gol signed a formal ceasefire agreement with Isak-Muivah group of NSCN in. 1997 and it was extended indefinitely since 2007, Gol and NSCN(IM) signed a Framework Agreement on 03.08.2015. Presently, various factions of NSCN viz. NSCN(NK), NSCN(R) and, NSCN(K-Khango) are under ceasefire with Gol. Currently, only one faction of NSCN/K-Yung Aung faction, largely based in Myanmar, remainsactive. 2.64 — In2020, the State of Nagaland witnessed a 45% decline in the number of violent incidents compared to 2019 (2019 - 42, 2020 - 23). There have been no civilian and SFs deaths in violent incidents in the State in 2020. Counter Insurgency Operations led to neutralization of 02 insurgents, arrest of 222 insurgents and recovery of 84 weapons in the State in 2020. NSCN/TM. accounted for about 44% of the insurgency incidents in the State during 2020. In 2020, the number of kidnapping/abduction cases declined by 33% compared to 2019 (2019-49, 2020-33). Arunachal Pradesh 2.65 The State of Arunachal Pradesh does not have any active indigenous insurgent group. The State is affected by spill-over insurgency of factions of NSCN and ULFA (Independent) in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts. 2.66 In 2020, the insurgency related incidents declined by 42% in Arunachal Pradesh compared to 2019 (2019 - 36, 2020 - 21). There has been no civilian death in the violent incidents in the State in 2020. Counter Insurgency Operations by SFs resulted in killing of 07 cadres/insurgents, arrest of 72 insurgents and recovery of 37 weapons in 2020. During 2020, Naga insurgent groups were involved in perpetrating violent incidents in the State [NSCN/IM - 11, NSCN/K-YK - 5, NSCN/U -2and ENNG - 1]. There have been 21 cases of kidnapping in the State in 2020. Manipur 2.67 The State of Manipur is affected by activities of Meitei, Naga, Kuki, Zomi, Hmar insurgent groups. A total of 23 UG outfits undertwo conglomerates (United Peoples’ Front [UPF] - 8 and Kuki National Organization [KNO] - 15) are currently under SoO with Gol since August, 2008. 2.68 In 2020, there has been a decrease in insurgency related incidents by 23% compared to 2019 (2019 - 126, 2020 - 97). There has been no civilian death in the State in 2020. Counter Insurgency Operations by SFs resulted in killing of 07 cadres/ insurgents, arrest of 259 insurgents and recovery of 92 weapons in the State in 2020. Meitei insurgency accounted for about 44% of insurgency incidents in the State. Sikkim and Mizoram 2.69 The States of Sikkim and Mizoram are free from insurgency. Release of Funds on Humanitarian Ground 2.70 MHA deals with a Central Scheme titled, ‘Central Scheme for Assistance to Civilian Victims/Family of Victims of Terrorist/ Communal/LWE Violence and Cross Border Firing and Mine/IED Blasts on Indian Territory’ for providing financial assistance for the sustenance and maintenance of the families of the civilian victims of the Terrorist /Communal/ LWE Violence/Cross Border Firing and Mine/IED Blasts. The scheme is an ongoing scheme since 01.04.2008, 271 Under this Scheme, the payment of assistance to the Victims/Next of Kin of Victims is made by the District Magistrate/Deputy Commissioner concerned and thereafter, the StateGGovernmentsubmits the proposals to MHA for reimbursement 2.72 In order to make the Scheme effective, simple and pragmatic, the guidelines of the scheme have been revised from time to time. As per the latest guidelines effective from 03.10.2019, the salient features of the scheme are asfollows: a) An amount of %5 lakh is provided to the beneficiary, of which 50% is paid to the victim/beneficiary’s Savings Bank Account and the remaining 50% in a Fixed Deposit account fora lock-in period of three years. b). The fixed deposit account can be prematurcly withdrawn under certain circumstances, such as construction of first house property, to incur costly medical expenses and higher studies of dependent children. ©) The Central Government makes 70% of the reimbursement immediately and the balance 30% after receipt of audit verification report by the Internal Audit Wing of MHA. 273 During FY 2020-21, an amount of %41 lakh (up to 31.12.2020) has been reimbursed under the Scheme by MHA. Regulation of Armsand Ammunitions 2.74 Arms (Amendment) Act,2019 (a) The Arms Act, 1959 regulating and controlling the licensing regime of firearmsin the country has been further strengthened by appropriate amendments in its extant provisions vide the Arms (Amendment) Act, 2019. The Arms (Amendment) Act, 2019 notified on 13.12.2019 came into force on 14.12.2019. (b) The amendment provides for enhanced punishment for existing offences and stringent punishment for new offences brought under its purview. Now the Arms Act, 1959 encompasses in its ambit electronic form of licence, provisions of tracing offirearms and ammunition and new forms of offences viz,, illicit trafficking, organized crime, participation in organized crime syndicate and celebratory gunfire. (©) The amendment has widened the scope of licence for manufacture, sale and conversion of firearms to prevent potential misuse of firearms and ammunition; and also has provisions for tracing of ammunition, to prohibit tampering of marking on ammunition; and strengthening, provision for traceability of firearms. (d) To curb proliferation of firearms in the country, the maximum number of firearms which a person can acquire has been reduced from three to two, but to reduce burden on the licensees, provision has been made of issuance of licences with five years validity. Provisions related to exemption for sportsperson and rifle club members now include all types of firearms being used in shooting sports, which earlier was restricted to point 22 borerifles and airrifles only. 2.75 Amendmentin Arms Rules, 2016 (a) Amendment in Rule 53(1): Proviso to Rule 53(1) has been amended to allow investment by Non-Resident Indian (RI) and Overseas Citizen of India (OCT) cardholders in manufacturing of arms in India to encourage foreign collaboration and facilitate technology transfer. (b) Amendment in Rule 105: In Rule 105, in any State, where there is no post of Commissioner of a Division, appeal against an order of the District Magistrate shall lie with the State Government or to any other officer authorized by the State Government. 13(3) has been amended to include any firearm, instead of only point 22 bore rifle or air rifle, used for target practice by members of rifle clubs or rifle associations licensed or recognized. Exemptions to Sportspersons 2.76 The exemption to sportspersons for possessing additional firearms has been enhanced over the ceiling of 02 firearms as per their categories, vide S.0, 665 (E) dated 12.02.2020. 2.77 Quantity of ammunition allowed to various categories of sportspersons for their personal consumption has also been enhanced substantially: ‘Types of firearms Quantity of ammunition before and after Other shooters holding valid arms __| 22 LR Rifle/Pistol 500 5000 licences and who are also members of National Rifle Association of India | Any other Pistol/ Revolver 300 2000 or affiliated State Rifle Association(s) | caliber of NRAI or shooting clubs/District, Rifle Association affiliated with State Rifle Association Shotgun caliber 250 5000 Any other Rifle 200 5002.78 During the period from 01.03.2020 to 31.01.2021, 17 arms manufacturing licenses were issued by MHA. 279 During the same period 20 firearms licenses were also issued to individuals by MHA, Visit of Sikh Jathas to Pakistan 2.80 As per protocol on visits to religious shrines signed between India and Pakistan on’ 14.09.1974, the Sikh Jathas visit nine Gurudwaras in Pakistan on the occasion of Baisakhi in April, Martyrdom of Arjan Devji in June, Barsi of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in June and Birth Anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Devji_ in October/November. During the year 2020-21, 1,170 pilgrims were recommended to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for visiting Pakistan on the occasion of the Birth Anniversary, of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Celebration of 400th Birth Anniversary of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji 281 Gol is commemorating the 400th Birth Anniversary of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at national and international level. A High Level Committee headed by Hon'ble Prime Minister and Executive Committee headed by Hon'ble Home Ministerhave been constituted.