Terrorists choose targets for creating a fear psychosis, which can lead to disturbance of bigger and more complicated nature, said Indian Home Minister Shivraj Patil inaugurating a two-day conference of Senior police officers in New Delhi.

"That is why they appear to be attacking the places of religious nature, so that conflicts between the people belonging to different religions or communities can be created," he said.

In an apparent reference to terror strikes at places of worship, he said terrorists wanted to use the psychology of unsuspecting and innocent persons to flare up communal disturbances.

He further said:

"Terrorists have begun to use military tactics...At present, terrorists are using sophisticated small weapons and explosive devices to perpetrate terror.

"In future, they are likely to use nuclear, biological and chemical devices and other mechanical and psychological devices.

" To control the terrorism in the hinterland, Patil said "we have to see that infiltration of terrorists from other countries do not take place through sea routes and through the borders between India and friendly countries. The coast lines also have to be guarded through Navy, coast guard, coastal police."