With the introduction of PRAHAAR, the first National Counter-Terrorism Policy in India, it has taken a bold move in addressing emerging challenges such as the need to combat the cross-border terrorism, cyber attacks, and drone attacks. This eight-page document, which was published on February 22, 2026 by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), formalizes a policy of zero tolerance, focusing on prevention, rapid response, and resilience in society. The policy which is officially published and is on the MHA web site combines the intelligence-based strategies without associating terrorism with a religion, caste, or nationality.

Core Pillars of PRAHAAR

There are seven core components in PRAHAAR as an acronym. Prevention of terror attacks is abbreviated as P, to protect both citizens and interests. R guarantees Rapid and disproportionate Responses. A is concerned with Aggregating internal capabilities through inter-agency synergy, such as Multi Agency Centre (MAC) as well as Joint Task Force on Intelligence (JTFI). H believes in the Human rights and Rule of Law. A targets Conditions that facilitate terrorism, e.g. radicalization. R Recovery and Resilience This is achieved by aligning international efforts and A stresses Aligning international efforts.

This multi-layered system deals with contemporary issues, such as state-sponsored terror through uncontrolled areas and cyber threats through drones, dark web, and crypto funding. Information infrastructure such as power plants, railroads, ports, military installations, and atomic installations are better secured.

Mechanisms of Response and Prevention.

Local police are the first responders to any incident, supported by the state counter-terror units and the National Security Guard (NSG) when dealing with large operations. NIA is the head of investigation and MHA liaises through standard operating procedures. Prevention is based on the sharing of real-time intelligence with MAC, disrupting the funding of terrorism, overground laborers, and border vulnerabilities with the help of advanced technology.

The policy recommends a model of whole-of-government and whole-of-society, and calls on reforms of laws, state-wide frameworks, upgrades of investigations, and investments in technology. It is based on the decades-long frontline battle against terrorism in India that has institutionalized proactive practices.

Strategic Implications

PRAHAAR is an indicator of a dynamic change, a breakage of terror ecosystems in conditions of instability in the regions. It hopes to achieve long-term security by focusing on human rights-compliant activities and international co-operation. Authorities rejoice in it as a progressive precept that brings about resilience.

This is a launch in an environment of increased threat, and so its determination in India. It provides forces with the power to attack decisively as Amit Shah, the Home Minister commented in the statements related to the same, prahaar is Hindi and means to strike. Focusing on new technologies such as AI in threat satisfaction, the policy makes India a global leader in counter-terror.