Drone infiltrations trigger security, narcotics concerns along border

In recent months, drone sightings along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu region have increased significantly, raising serious concerns among security agencies. These developments point toward the growing involvement of Pakistan-based narco-smugglers and terror organisations.

While drones were initially used for smuggling arms, ammunition, and drugs, intelligence agencies now believe they are also being deployed for surveillance purposes—particularly after India targeted and destroyed several terror camps during Operation Sindoor in May this year.

Drone activity has been reported across a wide area—from villages along the IB in Kathua to sectors near the LoC in Poonch. Although search operations are frequently launched following alerts from locals and security forces such as the Army and BSF, many times no payload is recovered from the drones.

A major concern is the increasing use of drones to drop narcotics. Drug addiction among youth has surged in various parts of the Jammu region, making drug smuggling a growing crisis. According to officials, drones offer a “safe” method for smugglers and terror groups operating from across the border, as they eliminate the need to risk human couriers. A well-organised network is activated immediately after a drone drops its cargo, ensuring the narcotics are swiftly delivered to local handlers and eventually to consumers.

There have also been instances where drones were used to airdrop weapons and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) into Indian territory. With dwindling resources, terror outfits in Pakistan increasingly rely on drones as a cost-effective and low-risk method to smuggle weaponry across the border.

However, the biggest concern among intelligence agencies is the use of drones for reconnaissance. Officials suspect that the Pakistani Army and terror groups are using drones to identify new infiltration routes into Indian territory. With heightened surveillance and tighter security following multiple terror attacks in Jammu over the past three years, infiltrators are finding it harder to cross the border. Drones—capable of flying low and navigating difficult terrain—are likely being used to detect gaps in border defenses.

Beyond the security implications, persistent drone activity has created psychological stress among residents of border villages, especially after the May attack this year when drones were used to target military installations in Jammu.

Experts emphasise the need for a multi-pronged strategy to counter the drone threat. First, there must be significant investment in advanced anti-drone technologies, including radar systems and signal jammers. Second, enhanced coordination among the Army, BSF, local police, and anti-narcotics agencies is essential to dismantle the networks facilitating drug smuggling. Lastly, awareness campaigns in border areas are needed to encourage residents to promptly report drone sightings.

The drone threat is not just a matter of border security—it is a complex challenge that combines elements of terrorism, narcotics trafficking, and psychological warfare. Addressing it will require vigilance, innovation, and strong collaboration across all levels of security and civil society.