4 Questions for Internal Security (2026 Mains) - As expected
Quick analysis and broad outline for each question below ⬇️
Question 9 - Explain how fake news and disinformation pose threat to Internal Security and Public Order in Indian context? In this regard, discuss salient features of amendments in respect of Information Technology (Intermediatory Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021. (Answer in 150 words)
Structure
Intro: Define disinformation → connect with internal security + public order.
1. Threats
Communal polarisation → rumours → violence
Public disorder → panic/mob mobilisation
Radicalisation → extremist propaganda/recruitment
Information warfare → hostile actors exploiting social divisions
Institutional trust → undermines elections, government, security forces
Data: PIB Fact Check received 1,51,012 queries, of which 48,716 were actionable, between April 2020–September 2024.
Source: PIB Fact Check.
2. IT Rules 2021
Mention:
Due diligence by intermediaries
Grievance redressal
Additional obligations for significant social media intermediaries
Compliance officers
Traceability provision
Three-tier mechanism for digital media/OTT
Government fact-checking provision
Conclusion
Platform accountability + fact-checking + digital literacy + protection of free speech.
Question 10 - Ladakh is strategically located between China and Pakistan. As a measure to win hearts and minds of locals, discuss the Border Area Development Programmes (BADP) by the Central Government and civic actions by the Army. Also discuss demand of promulgation of provision of the Sixth Schedule of constitution for Ladakh. (Answer in 150 words)
Structure
Intro: Strategic location → China + Pakistan → border security requires military + development + local participation.
1. Border development
Use BADP/Vibrant Villages Programme:
Roads/connectivity
Telecom
Health/education
Livelihoods
Tourism
Reverse outmigration
Data: VVP-I covers 35 villages in Ladakh and has an overall ₹4,800 crore outlay.
Source: MHA/PIB.
2. Army Civic Action
Operation SADBHAVANA
Medical camps
Education
Skill development
Sports/youth engagement
Infrastructure
Use as the central idea:
“Winning hearts and minds creates local stakeholders in national security.”
3. Sixth Schedule
For: tribal identity, land/culture protection, autonomy
Against/concerns: administrative complexity, strategic/security considerations
Conclusion
Development → trust → local cooperation → stronger border security
Question 19 - Separatist movements have been one of the major factors contributing to militancy and instability in Jammu & Kashmir (J & K). Bring out actions taken by the Government to bring J& K into national mainstream. Discuss pre and post abrogation status of Articles 370 and 35A. Also bring out positive impacts of abrogation of both articles in mainstreaming the state. (Answer in 250 words)
Structure
Intro:
Alienation → radicalisation → militancy → insecurity → further alienation
1. Causes
Political alienation
Governance/development deficits
Radicalisation
Cross-border terrorism
External financing/support
2. Government response
Organise under:
Security: intelligence, counter-terror operations, infiltration control
Political: constitutional integration, democratic participation
Development: infrastructure, tourism, employment
Mainstreaming: Panchayats, youth engagement, entrepreneurship
Critical assessment
Security indicators have improved substantially, but durable peace requires continued counter-terrorism alongside political participation, employment and trust-building.
Conclusion
Security gains → development → democratic participation → sustainable peace
