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Guwahati, Jan 21 (IANS) As part of heightened security preparations ahead of Republic Day 2026, a Joint Counter-Drone Capsule was conducted at Tinsukia in Upper Assam, reinforcing inter-agency preparedness against emerging aerial threats and underscoring the growing emphasis on military–civil fusion in internal security.

The specialised capsule was organised by the Indian Army, with the Red Shield Gunners conducting the training under the aegis of Spear Corps. Personnel from multiple civil and central security agencies actively participated, including the Assam Police, Central Reserve Police Force, Central Industrial Security Force, and officials from Indian Oil Corporation Limited.

Officials said that the capsule was aimed at strengthening joint planning, response mechanisms and operational coordination to counter the increasing misuse of drones for surveillance, smuggling and potential sabotage. With drones emerging as a key security challenge during major national events, the training focused on building a common operational picture and enhancing real-time response capabilities across agencies.

The programme featured practical demonstrations on detection, identification and neutralisation of hostile drones, along with structured interactions to familiarise participants with standard operating procedures and inter-agency communication protocols. Emphasis was laid on rapid decision-making, coordinated action and seamless information-sharing during potential contingencies.

According to officials, the exercise significantly enhanced situational awareness among participating agencies and improved their ability to operate in an integrated manner. “Such joint capsules help bridge operational gaps, align procedures and ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page when responding to dynamic threats,” an official said.

The counter-drone capsule also reflected a broader whole-of-nation approach to security, wherein military expertise is combined with civil and industrial stakeholders to safeguard critical infrastructure and public events.

With Assam hosting multiple Republic Day-related activities and increased public movement during the period, the drill was seen as a timely step to reinforce preventive and responsive security measures.

Authorities said similar joint initiatives would continue in the coming weeks to ensure robust, layered and foolproof security arrangements across the region, reaffirming the importance of synergy between the armed forces and civil agencies in maintaining national security.

---IANS

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