The Global Terrorism Index 2025 report presents a stark reality of the evolving nature of terrorism worldwide. The document highlights that terrorism remains a persistent challenge, with increasing geopolitical shifts contributing to the growing complexity of counterterrorism efforts. For India, a nation with a long history of dealing with terrorist threats, the findings of the report necessitate a strategic re-evaluation of its approach to combating terrorism while maintaining its commitment to global peace, as envisioned in the philosophy of Vishwa Shanti and the teachings of Lord Buddha.
The report underscores that the number of countries experiencing terrorist incidents rose from 58 to 66 in 2024, reflecting a worrying trend of expanding terrorism. While India remains impacted by terrorist activities, it stands at a critical juncture where it must formulate a comprehensive counterterrorism strategy that not only secures its borders but also promotes a diplomatic vision of peace and stability worldwide. The increasing influence of Islamic State affiliates, the resurgence of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and the shifting epicentre of terrorism to Africa and South Asia demand that India recalibrate its international engagements to contain these threats effectively.
India’s approach to countering terrorism must balance strategic military preparedness with soft power diplomacy. The GTI 2025 report highlights that countries with weak governance and internal conflict have seen the highest rise in terrorism, reinforcing the idea that India’s counterterrorism strategy should emphasize strengthening regional stability. Given the increasing radicalization of youth through online platforms and encrypted communication networks, India must invest in cyber surveillance and counter-radicalization programs. Initiatives promoting digital literacy and countering extremist narratives through social media will be crucial in this endeavor.
The Sahel region, identified in the report as the most impacted area, is a crucial learning ground for India’s foreign policy. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have experienced escalating terrorist attacks, primarily due to weak state structures and economic vulnerabilities. India, with its long-standing diplomatic engagements in Africa, must extend counterterrorism cooperation with these nations through intelligence sharing, security partnerships, and developmental aid. Strengthening India’s presence in global security frameworks such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) can further bolster its stance against global terrorism financing networks.
While military and strategic counterterrorism efforts are necessary, India’s greatest strength lies in its cultural and philosophical heritage, particularly the principles of Vishwa Shanti (universal peace) and the teachings of Lord Buddha. Indian diplomacy should actively integrate these philosophies to project itself as a peace-driven nation that advocates sustainable solutions to global conflicts. The Buddhist concept of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Karuna (compassion) should be embedded into India’s foreign policy discourse, encouraging dialogue over conflict and rehabilitation over retribution.
India must harness the principles of Buddhist diplomacy, drawing from its historical influence in Southeast and East Asia. By reinforcing its cultural and spiritual ties with countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Japan, and Thailand, India can create a coalition of nations that advocate peace-oriented counterterrorism approaches. The revival of Nalanda University as a global center for peace studies, along with other Buddhist initiatives, can serve as intellectual platforms for discussions on de-radicalization and conflict resolution.
At a global level, India’s commitment to non-alignment should be modernized to accommodate contemporary security dynamics. Strategic partnerships with the United States, Russia, and European nations must align with India’s broader goal of establishing a global counterterrorism consensus. India should continue to play a proactive role in international forums such as the G20 and BRICS to advocate for a global counterterrorism framework that prioritizes peacebuilding alongside security enforcement.
Domestically, India needs to further strengthen its intelligence networks and border security mechanisms to prevent cross-border terrorist infiltration. The report notes a significant increase in terrorist activities in Pakistan, with the TTP and Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) expanding their reach. India must intensify its counterterrorism cooperation with regional partners, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Central Asian states, to counter these emerging threats.
The economic aspect of counterterrorism also warrants attention. The report points to the role of illicit trade, including gold smuggling in the Sahel, as a funding source for terrorist organizations. India, being a major importer of gold, must implement stringent monitoring mechanisms to ensure that its gold trade does not inadvertently finance terrorism. Strengthening financial intelligence units and collaborating with global financial watchdogs will be critical in this regard.
Another dimension of India’s global counterterrorism strategy should focus on addressing the root causes of radicalization. Poverty, lack of education, and social marginalization create fertile ground for extremist ideologies. India must lead by example in promoting inclusive development models, particularly in regions susceptible to extremism. By advocating economic and educational empowerment through its diplomatic initiatives, India can position itself as a leader in counter-radicalization efforts.
India must also engage with the United Nations and regional bodies such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to create frameworks that address terrorism holistically. The GTI 2025 report highlights the role of AI and technology in both terrorist activities and counterterrorism measures. India, with its robust IT sector, must leverage artificial intelligence for intelligence gathering, predictive analysis, and surveillance to stay ahead in the fight against terrorism.
As the report indicates, the future of terrorism will be shaped by evolving geopolitical tensions and technological advancements. India must ensure that its counterterrorism approach remains dynamic, integrating hard power and soft power strategies to address the multi-faceted nature of terrorism. By promoting Lord Buddha’s message of peace while simultaneously strengthening its security architecture, India can offer the world a unique model of counterterrorism that is rooted in diplomacy, development, and deterrence.
The Global Terrorism Index 2025 serves as a wake-up call for India to reassess its counterterrorism policies. While military preparedness and strategic alliances remain crucial, India must also champion a peace-driven approach to counterterrorism, emphasizing the teachings of Vishwa Shanti and Lord Buddha. By leading international efforts to promote dialogue, economic empowerment, and cultural diplomacy, India should not only safeguard its national interests but also emerge as a beacon of peace in an increasingly turbulent world.
By- Rituraj Mate
