Why Does India Want Quad’s Support Against Terrorism?

Quad & India’s Counter-Terrorism Stand: Decoded
What is the Quad?
The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is a strategic alliance of four Indo-Pacific democracies: India, the US, Japan, and Australia. Originally formed for disaster relief after the 2004 tsunami, it has evolved into a coalition focused on regional security, tech collaboration, and countering shared threats.

Key Developments:
Operation Surya Hope (May 2024): India’s counter-terror strike in response to the Pahalgam attack set the backdrop for Jaishankar’s Quad appeal.
India’s Message: “Victims and perpetrators can’t be equated. India will exercise its right to defend its people – and expects Quad’s understanding.”
Quad’s Response: Members called the partnership “productive,” focusing on supply chain resilience and regional stability.

Why Quad Matters for India:
Counters China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.
Boosts India’s maritime security and tech capabilities.
Provides a platform to rally global support against cross-border terrorism.


Why This Matters for Exams
This topic intersects UPSC Prelims (current affairs) and Mains GS Paper II (international relations). Key angles:
India’s evolving counter-terror diplomacy.
Quad’s role in regional security vs. China’s assertiveness.
How multilateral groups shape India’s foreign policy.
Relevance of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.


Sample Exam Questions & Answers
Q1: What triggered India’s Operation Surya Hope?
A: The May 2024 terror attack in Pahalgam (J&K) that killed 26 civilians.
Q2: Name Quad’s member countries.
A: India, United States, Japan, and Australia.
Q3: How did the Quad originate?
A: It began informally during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami relief efforts, formalized in 2007, and revived in 2017.
Q4: What did Jaishankar emphasize at the Quad meeting?
A: Zero tolerance for terrorism, India’s right to self-defense, and the need to avoid equating victims with perpetrators.
Q5: List two strategic objectives of the Quad.
A:
Ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Building resilient supply chains for critical minerals and technology.


Key Takeaways for Quick Revision
Quad = India + US + Japan + Australia.
Focus areas: Maritime security, tech innovation, climate action, counter-terrorism.
India’s ask: Quad’s backing for its counter-terror operations.
Evolution: 2004 (tsunami relief) → 2007 (formal launch) → 2017 (revival).
“Quad Plus” may include South Korea, Vietnam, or New Zealand.