THE CONTEXT: The recent remarks by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) regarding India’s National Security Strategy (NSS) have sparked significant debate. He suggested that while India addresses policy, processes, and practices, the absence of a written NSS document is not critical. This statement, highlighting a potential shift in policy, necessitates a thorough analysis of why India has struggled to formalize an NSS despite multiple attempts over the past two decades.
THE ISSUES:
- Historical Context and Deliberations: India has been formulating an NSS for over two decades, with multiple drafts and inputs from various ministries and departments. Despite these efforts, a formal NSS has not been finalized or published.
- Role of the Defence Planning Committee: The Defence Planning Committee, chaired by the National Security Advisor, was established in 2018 to formulate the NSS and a National Defence Strategy. However, the status and progress of this much-publicized exercise remain unclear.
- CDS’s Comments and Policy Articulation: General Chauhan’s remarks suggest a potential shift in policy, emphasizing that the absence of a written NSS does not imply a lack of strategy. He cited successful operations like the revocation of Article 370 and the Balakot airstrike as evidence of effective strategic planning without a formal document.
- Advantages of a Written NSS: A well-crafted NSS would provide a comprehensive framework for national security, fostering a “whole of nation” approach and building synergy for harnessing comprehensive national power (CNP). It would also enable clear milestones for capability-building, modernization, and strategic autonomy.
- Challenges and Hesitations: Political hesitation and concerns about accountability have been significant barriers to formalizing an NSS. There is also a debate within the strategic community about the necessity and benefits of a written document versus the current informal approach.
- Global Comparisons and Lessons: Most developed nations, including the US, UK, Russia, and China, have formal NSS documents that are periodically updated. These documents provide clear strategic direction and accountability. India’s unique security challenges necessitate a customized approach, but lessons can be drawn from these global precedents.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Establish a Dedicated National Security Strategy Document: Formulate and publish a comprehensive NSS document that outlines India’s security objectives, strategies, and implementation plans. This document should be periodically reviewed and updated to reflect changing security dynamics. The Subrahmanyam Committee Report (1979) emphasized the need for credible minimum deterrence and an integrated approach to national security. The Kargil Review Committee Report (2000) recommended comprehensive national security reforms post-Kargil conflict. Naresh Chandra Task Force (2012) highlighted the need for a formal NSS to guide security reforms.
- Enhance coordination and integration among security agencies: Strengthen the National Security Council Secretariat’s (NSCS) role to ensure seamless coordination among the military, intelligence, and other security agencies. Establish clear protocols for information sharing and joint operations. The United States National Security Council (NSC) coordinates security policies across various agencies. China’s Comprehensive National Security framework integrates multiple security dimensions.
- Develop a Multi-Dimensional Security Approach: Adopt a multi-dimensional security strategy that includes traditional military threats and non-traditional challenges such as cybersecurity, economic stability, environmental sustainability, and public health. S. Hooda’s Document (2019) advocated for a holistic approach to national security, including non-traditional threats. United States Incorporates economic, cyber, and environmental protection into its NSS. United Kingdom Focuses on hybrid threats, blending conventional and unconventional tactics.
- Institutionalize Regular Reviews and Updates: Institutionalize a process for regular reviews and updates of the NSS. This should involve consultations with experts, stakeholders, and relevant ministries to ensure the strategy remains current and effective. The United States regularly updates its NSS to reflect new threats and opportunities. The United Kingdom periodically reviews its NSS to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
- Foster Public Awareness and Civil-Military Cooperation: Develop public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about national security priorities and the role of the NSS. Foster civil-military cooperation through community engagement programs and transparent communication of security policies. The Group of Ministers (GoM) Report on National Security (2001) recommends enhancing public awareness and civil-military relations.
THE CONCLUSION:
A well-defined NSS, with public and classified components, will foster a comprehensive national approach, enhance operational clarity, and support the modernization and transformation of India’s defense capabilities. This strategic clarity is essential for effectively addressing current and future security challenges.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 What are India’s internal security challenges? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats. 2023
Q.2 Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors to India’s internal security. Also, discuss measures required to be taken to combat the threats. 2021
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 Formulating a National Security Strategy (NSS) is crucial for India’s comprehensive security framework. Discuss the significance of having a written NSS, the challenges faced in its formulation, and the potential benefits it could bring to India’s national security apparatus.
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