New Delhi: The National Security Guard (NSG) is making strides in the creation of a ground-breaking national-level software for managing Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). This innovative software will serve as a platform for national and select international partners to seamlessly connect and exchange vital information in real-time, as stated by Director General of the National Security Guard, MA Ganapathy.
The announcement came during a two-day seminar titled "Sub-conventional threats: challenges and prospects for definite and enduring solutions," which concluded on Friday. The event was held at DRDO Bhawan in Delhi and brought together experts and officials to deliberate on critical issues related to sub-conventional threats.
The first day of the seminar centered on discussions related to the response mechanisms employed by security forces in countering terror threats, with a particular focus on addressing challenges linked to Left left-wing extremism. A special breakout session took place, allowing the NSG to engage in discussions with State Special Forces.
The second day of the seminar was dedicated exclusively to exploring the use of technology in mitigating IED threats and the application of forensic techniques in detecting and neutralizing IEDs.
Ganapathy emphasized that the seminar's primary focus, especially in the realm of counter-IED operations, revolved around identifying the latest trends and developing strategies to enhance the detection, identification, and neutralization of IEDs. He revealed that the NSG is currently working on the development of a national-level software known as the National IED Data Management System (NIDMS). NIDMS will enable national and select international partners involved in IED-related activities to connect and share pertinent information in real-time.
He stated, "The objective of the seminar is to produce specific insights that can enhance exchanges at both the operational and tactical levels. These insights are intended to promote synergy in the current response mechanisms for countering terrorism. This involves refining training, integrating technology into operations, and ultimately neutralizing terrorist threats while minimizing casualties and damage."
During the counter-IED session, high-ranking officers from security and intelligence agencies gained valuable insights from experts closely involved in research and the application of artificial intelligence and forensics in the detection and identification of IEDs.
"In today's context, there is a growing necessity to harness technology effectively during post-blast investigations. This step is pivotal in the pursuit of long-term solutions to mitigate IED threats and establish solid evidence for use in legal proceedings," Ganapathy stressed.
The seminar's overarching goal was to discover enduring solutions for sub-conventional threats by drawing on the collective experiences of participants. It aimed to recommend an effective and synchronized response mechanism involving responders at all levels. Additionally, the seminar sought to foster synergy between Defense Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), State Special Forces, Anti-Terrorist Squads (ATS), and Investigation Agencies to deter any potential terrorist incidents.