NATGRID Linked to National Population Register to Enhance Intelligence Gathering and Criminal Investigation
The National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) has been linked to the National Population Register (NPR), providing investigative agencies real-time access to the family-wise details of 119 crore residents. This integration aims to bolster intelligence gathering and speed up criminal investigations through secure platforms. A key tool, 'Gandiva', utilizes facial recognition and entity resolution to identify suspects by matching images against databases like telecom KYC or driving licenses. While the government emphasizes security benefits, the move links the first step of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to a powerful surveillance infrastructure.
Key Points
- NATGRID provides a secure platform for police and central agencies to access government and private databases.
- The NPR contains family-wise data of 119 crore residents, last updated in 2015.
- 'Gandiva' is an upgraded NATGRID tool used for facial recognition and entity resolution.
- The Union Home Ministry is pushing for enhanced NATGRID use by state police and central law enforcement.
Exam Facts
- NATGRID was conceptualized in 2009 following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
- NPR data was first collected in 2010 during the 2011 Census phase.
- The Union Cabinet approved Census 2027 with a budget of ₹11,718 crore.
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