Date : 07/11/2023

Relevance: GS Paper 3 – Internal Security and Issues Related to Security

Keywords: National Security Strategy, Cyber Security, multi-dimensional strategy

Context-

India is currently developing its inaugural National Security Strategy, a document that delineates the nation's security goals and the approaches to attain them.

Understanding the National Security Strategy:

The National Security Strategy is a vital government document that articulates a nation's security objectives and delineates the methods to achieve them. It offers a comprehensive perspective on national security, encompassing various threats, both traditional and non-traditional. This strategy serves as a guiding framework for defense and security policies, shaping a nation's stance on military, economic, and diplomatic fronts to safeguard its interests and ensure overall security.

Global Examples of National Security Strategies:

Several developed countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia, have established their own National Security Strategies. Additionally, countries like Pakistan have introduced specific policies, like the National Security Policy 2022-2026, to address contemporary challenges.

India's Imperative for a National Security Strategy:

India's pressing need for a National Security Strategy arises from the intricate web of traditional and non-traditional threats it faces. Experts underscore the strategic significance of such a document, emphasizing its role in guiding military reforms and providing a clear roadmap amidst evolving challenges and geopolitical tensions. Without a well-defined National Security Strategy, military reforms lack a robust foundation, making the formulation of this document crucial for India's security posture.

Key Components of the National Security Policy:

Defining Clear Objectives:

• The policy outlines the assets to be protected and identifies potential adversaries aiming to disrupt the target nation, providing clarity on the nation's defense priorities.

Priority Setting and Innovation:

• The policy emphasizes the establishment of new departments dedicated to innovation and technology, focusing on critical areas such as hydrogen fuel cells, desalination, and cybersecurity.

Strategic Adaptation:

• The policy advocates for the development of a multi-dimensional strategy to anticipate threats, including limited pre-emptive strikes, and to deter potential adversaries, ensuring proactive measures are in place.

Focus on Emerging Technologies:

• The policy directs attention towards critical and emerging technologies, connectivity, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and maritime security, acknowledging the importance of staying ahead in these domains.

Role of Policy Makers and Cybersecurity Measures:

• The policy recommends the allocation of a separate budget for cybersecurity, the creation of a central body comprising cyber warriors to counter hackers, and the utilization of India's software development talent. It also stresses the need to bootstrap cybersecurity capabilities at the state levels.

Defense, Deterrence, and Preparedness:

• The policy emphasizes the defense of critical infrastructure, encourages honest reporting of breaches, addresses the complexities of cyber deterrence, and underscores the preparation for cyber warfare as a strategic means to achieve national security objectives.

Extent and Substance of India’s National Security Strategy:

• Challenges of the Present Era: India's National Security Strategy will address a diverse range of modern challenges, spanning financial and economic security, food and energy security, information warfare, vulnerabilities in critical information infrastructure, supply chain issues, and environmental concerns.
• Holistic Strategy: The strategy will employ a holistic approach to address these emerging threats, aligning seamlessly with India's dynamic security environment.

Historical Reasons for the Absence of a National Security Strategy:

India's lack of a national security strategy in the past can be attributed to political hesitations and concerns regarding accountability in defense management. Experts have cited reasons ranging from the absence of coordinated government efforts to the government's reluctance to disclose its national security objectives, leading to the delay in the formulation of a comprehensive strategy.

Conclusion

The formulation of India's National Security Strategy signifies a crucial step forward in establishing a clear and unified security approach. This pioneering strategy is poised to offer guidance in tackling intricate security issues, safeguarding national interests, and nurturing a secure future amid the constant changes in the global landscape.

Source - The Indian Express