GS3 – Internal Security
Context:
The Union Home Minister recently inaugurated a revamped Multi Agency Centre (MAC) in New Delhi.
What is MAC?
The Multi Agency Centre (MAC) is India’s central platform for sharing real-time intelligence among security and law enforcement agencies.
It was established by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) in 2001, as part of the national security reforms following the Kargil conflict and recommendations by the Kargil Review Committee.
MAC serves as the hub for intelligence sharing and coordination among various central and state agencies, with Subsidiary MACs (SMACs) established at the state level.
Importance of MAC
- Provides an integrated, secure, and independent communication network that connects even the remotest district police chiefs (SPs).
- Enhances the effectiveness of the country’s response to multifaceted threats such as terrorism, insurgency, cybercrime, and organized criminal networks.
- Promotes collaborative functioning of various intelligence and enforcement bodies to deal with national security issues more effectively.