Every year on May 21, India observes National Anti-Terrorism Day to raise awareness about the dangers of terrorism and violence while reaffirming the country’s commitment to peace, unity and national security. The day is observed in memory of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated on May 21, 1991, during an election campaign in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.
Rajiv Gandhi, India’s youngest Prime Minister, was killed in a suicide bombing carried out by a member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The attack shocked the nation and became one of the darkest chapters in India’s political history. In response, the Government of India later declared May 21 as National Anti-Terrorism Day to spread awareness about the destructive impact of terrorism on society and to discourage violence, extremism and radicalisation.
The observance is marked across schools, colleges, government offices and public institutions through pledge-taking ceremonies, seminars, discussions and awareness campaigns. The official anti-terrorism pledge emphasises India’s long-standing traditions of non-violence, tolerance and humanity while encouraging citizens to oppose all forms of terrorism and violence.
Over the decades, India has witnessed several devastating terror attacks — from the 1993 Mumbai blasts and the 2001 Parliament attack to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and more recent incidents targeting civilians and security forces. These attacks have deeply shaped India’s internal security policies and strengthened its resolve against terrorism in all forms.
In recent years, “New India” has projected a far more assertive and technologically advanced response to terrorism. The country has strengthened intelligence coordination, border surveillance, cyber-monitoring and counter-terrorism operations. Security forces today use advanced technology, drones, satellite monitoring and real-time intelligence systems to combat terror networks and infiltration attempts.
India has also intensified international cooperation against terrorism, consistently urging global institutions to adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward terror financing, cross-border terrorism and extremist organisations. At international forums such as the United Nations and G20, India has repeatedly stressed that terrorism remains one of the greatest threats to global peace and human rights.
At the same time, experts emphasise that the fight against terrorism is not only about military strength or security operations. It also involves protecting democratic values, promoting social harmony and preventing the spread of hatred and radicalisation among youth. National Anti-Terrorism Day therefore serves both as a tribute to victims of terror and as a reminder of the importance of peace, vigilance and unity.
More than three decades after Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination, the day continues to carry deep national significance. It reminds Indians that terrorism seeks to divide societies through fear and violence — but unity, resilience and collective resolve remain the country’s strongest response.