New Delhi: The terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, led India’s Cabinet Committee on Security to hold an urgent emergency session. Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the security meeting, which took place on the evening of April 23, with security reviews and attack response evaluations as the main topics.
What is the CCS?
As a critical government of India policy-making body, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) is tasked with managing national security and military operations while developing counter-terrorism plans across homeland and international territory during periods of national emergency. Quick security decisions emerge from the committee, which simultaneously develops long-term strategic security plans.
The CCS maintains responsibility to direct India’s rapid strategic response toward all security threats involving military forces and attacks from terrorists and diplomatic situations.
Who Are the Permanent Members of the CCS?
The committee is chaired by the Prime Minister, while the following members sit on the leadership table:
Prime Minister (Chairman)
Home Minister
Defence Minister
Finance Minister
External Affairs Minister
The following individuals, who are essential personnel, attend the meetings:
National Security Advisor (NSA)
Cabinet Secretary
Defence Secretary
The temporary members receive important roles in providing technical expertise and intelligence guidance during each session.
When Are CCS Meetings Held?
Significant nationwide security events trigger CCS gatherings, which also take place during emergency situations.
Terrorist attacks
Border tensions or infiltrations
Major changes in defence policy.
Approval of strategic military operations
Diplomatic decisions in times of crisis
Official officers convened a meeting to analyse the Pahalgam terrorist situation and develop a strategic response plan.
The main points discussed at the CCS gathering after the Pahalgam terrorist incident included
Amit Shah provided the CCS with details about the progress of the terrorist investigation and information about the attack. Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh demanded action against terrorism by stating that India consigned its position to zero tolerance. The committee explored additional steps they could take by giving security forces clear orders and crossing borders for operations under consideration.
Why is the CCS Important?
Indian decisions about national security must function quickly and intelligently due to the country’s many diverse areas and geographic traits. The CCS plays an essential role in establishing a handling approach for security issues through precise strategic evaluation instead of impulsive emotions. The decision-making process ensures that decisions are based on accurate intelligence input and are implemented carefully to protect Indian interests over time.