Terrorism, radicalisation pose serious security challenges to society: Sitharaman

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday said that terrorism and radicalisation pose one of the most immediate and serious security challenges to the society.

Addressing the 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers' meeting here, Sitharaman said, "The global security situation is constantly evolving and has thrown up serious challenges. Terrorism and radicalisation pose one of the most immediate and serious security challenges to our societies."

She added that the new developments in the Cyberspace have expanded the threat, as these are exploited by terrorists to develop ways of manipulating mind.

"India has taken resolute measures to fight the scourge of terrorism from across its borders. We fully recognise the role of joint mechanisms with our partners and the role of international and regional forums in fighting this menace," the Defence Minister said.

She asserted that the maritime security was another key concern and India supports freedom of navigation, overflight and commerce throughout the region.

"We should be clear and unequivocal in our condemnation of terrorism," Sitharaman said.