Cyber attacks, radicalisation of youth major challenges before government: Shah

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday identified attacks on critical infrastructure, cyberattacks, information warfare, psychological warfare, chemical warfare, and the radicalisation of youth as intensified challenges before the government.

The Home Minister, while delivering a speech at the 37^th Intelligence Bureau Centenary Endowment Lecture, expressed confidence that just as the country’s security agencies have faced all challenges until now, they will be able to confront these threats with the same readiness and vigilance.

He emphasised that in order to tackle these challenges, “we must prepare our agencies with new methods, stepping beyond traditional approaches”.

Shah said that there is a need to think “out of the box” to find solutions because as the challenges evolve, the strategies must also change.

The Home Minister stated that in the coming days, “we must increase the use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning”.

He emphasised the need to develop an intelligence coordination strategy with friendly nations to detect anti-India organisations and networks, and this strategy must include offensive measures as well.

The Home Minister added that merely sharing information is not enough, it must also be ensured that vital intelligence is received.

Shah further noted that the time has come to use block chain analysis tools for crypto currency. He also highlighted the need to take prompt and decisive action against hoax calls and fake emails, as enemies of the country are successfully creating an atmosphere of fear and terror among the public through these means.

He stated that for the Intelligence Bureau to realise the vision of a developed India, it must prepare itself to become a cutting-edge intelligence agency. The Home Minister emphasised that young officers must step forward to achieve this goal.