Internal Security is an important subject in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), especially for candidates aspiring to join various services such as the Indian Police Service (IPS) or other Group A and Group B services that deal with law enforcement and security matters. It is part of the UPSC CSE Mains examination. Here is an overview of the Internal Security syllabus for UPSC CSE:
Challenges to Internal Security: This section covers a broad spectrum of challenges and threats to India’s internal security. Topics include terrorism, insurgency, left-wing extremism (Naxalism), communalism, regionalism, and separatist movements.
Government and Police Response: Understanding the government’s response to internal security challenges, including counter-terrorism strategies, intelligence agencies, and law enforcement agencies, is crucial.
Role of Security Forces: Candidates should have knowledge of the roles and functions of various security forces, such as the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and state police, in maintaining internal security.
Cybersecurity: An understanding of the growing threats in cyberspace, including cybercrime, cyber espionage, and the measures taken to counter these threats, is important.
Border Management: India’s border management, including border disputes and the role of Border Security Force (BSF) and other agencies, should be studied.
Disaster Management: Candidates should be aware of India’s disaster management framework and its response to natural and man-made disasters.
Role of Media and Social Media: The role of media, including traditional and social media, in shaping perceptions and influencing security situations should be understood.
National Security Laws: Familiarity with important laws related to national security, such as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and National Security Act (NSA), is necessary.
Role of Intelligence Agencies: Candidates should have an overview of India’s intelligence agencies, such as RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) and IB (Intelligence Bureau), and their functions.
Counterterrorism Measures: Knowledge of counterterrorism strategies, both at the national and international levels, is essential.
Recent Developments and Current Affairs: As internal security is a dynamic field, candidates should stay updated with recent developments and contemporary issues related to internal security.
To prepare for this subject, candidates can refer to textbooks on internal security, government reports, and documents related to security policy. They should also study current affairs from reputable sources and practice answer writing to improve their analytical and writing skills. Additionally, candidates can refer to previous year’s question papers to get an idea of the type of questions asked in the UPSC CSE Mains exam for Internal Security.
