New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday inaugurated the ninth National Security Strategies Conference-2026, with discussions focusing on terrorism, illegal migration, cybercrime, intelligence coordination and Pakistan’s use of proxy warfare.
The two-day conference, being held in a hybrid format, brought together more than 850 participants, including Ministers of State for Home Affairs, the Union Home Secretary, Deputy National Security Advisers, heads of Central Armed Police Forces and Central Police Organisations. Directors General of Police from states and Union Territories, young police officers and domain experts also participated virtually.
During the first day, Shah stressed the need for stronger measures to counter terrorism and radicalisation. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, he called for effective implementation of the MHA’s PRAHAAR scheme, faster trials through the return of fugitives and greater use of trial-in-absentia provisions. He also advocated a comprehensive approach to investigations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
A major focus was placed on leveraging technology for national security. Shah directed agencies to undertake AI-based analysis of information available through the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) and use the findings to develop standard operating procedures for tackling emerging security threats.
The Home Minister also instructed security agencies to adopt strict measures against infiltration. Other issues discussed included a vision document on narcotics control, detection and deportation of illegal migrants, a national policy framework for combating cybercrime and intelligence fusion.
The second day is scheduled to address emerging threats from sub-aerial systems, protection of the blue economy, information warfare and the need for a comprehensive bio-security framework.
The conference, held annually since 2021, aims to develop practical solutions to national security challenges by combining the experience of grassroots-level officers with specialised expertise.
