Calls for AI use to tackle security threats
NEW DELHI, AUG 24 (AGENCIES): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday directed security and intelligence agencies to adopt strict measures to curb infiltration and called for greater use of artificial intelligence (AI) to address emerging national security challenges.
Shah made the remarks while addressing the ninth two-day National Security Strategies (NSS) Conference 2026 in New Delhi. He directed agencies to conduct AI-based analysis of information available on the Multi Agency Centre (MAC) platform and use the findings to develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) to counter various national security threats.
The first day of the conference focused on several key security concerns, including counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing and analysis through the MAC, narcotics control, detection and deportation of illegal migrants, cybercrime and Pakistan-backed proxy warfare. Shah called for stronger measures to tackle terrorism and radicalisation, including effective implementation of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ PRAHAAR scheme.
He also stressed the need to expedite trials by bringing fugitives back to India and making greater use of provisions allowing trials in absentia.
Shah further called for a comprehensive and integrated approach while investigating cases registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Before inaugurating the conference, Shah paid tribute to Intelligence Bureau personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty. He laid a wreath at the Martyrs’ Column in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country’s security and integrity. The conference was held in a hybrid format and brought together more than 850 participants from across the country.
Ministers of State for Home Affairs, the Union Home Secretary, Deputy National Security Advisers, and heads of Central Armed Police Forces and Central Police Organisations attended the conference in Delhi.
Directors General of Police from states and Union Territories, young police officers working at the operational level and experts from specialised fields participated virtually.
The second day of the conference will focus on emerging security challenges, including threats from sub-aerial systems and measures to counter them.
Discussions will also cover securing the blue economy, information warfare and its implications for national security, as well as the need for a comprehensive bio-security framework.
The NSS Conference has been held annually in a hybrid format since 2021 following the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It aims to develop solutions to major national security challenges by bringing together grassroots-level officers, senior officials and experts from specialised domains.