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National Security Strategy

Why in News ?

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) contested the need of a written National Security Strategy (NSS), sparking debate about the importance of an NSS document.

What is National Security Strategy (NSS)?

• An NSS serves as a succinct overview of a nation's strategic vision and objectives.
• It addresses both domestic and international challenges.
• The strategy encompasses traditional and non-traditional threats and opportunities.
• It is periodically updated to reflect changing scenarios.

Common Elements of NSS

• Strategic deterrence
• Territorial integrity and sovereignty
• Economic, Maritime, Cyber, Food security
• Counter terrorism and internal security
• Nuclear policy and non-proliferation

Why does India need a written National Security Strategy?

• Lack of Written Policy: Currently, the Armed Forces operate under the Raksha Mantri’s operational directive from 2009, which is outdated.
• Comparative Standards: Major powers like the US, UK, and Russia have published and regularly updated their NSS, setting a precedent for India.
• Adapting to Security Dynamics: A NSS would encourage routine assessments of threats and opportunities, addressing evolving challenges such as hybrid warfare and the expansion of the Chinese navy.
• Framework for Long-term Planning: A coherent strategy would help move away from short-term, reactive, and politically motivated decisions regarding national security.
• Strategic Signaling: It would express India’s strategic intentions to allies and adversaries, reinforce its role as a security provider in the Indian Ocean, and foster collaboration with partners.
• Continuity in Defence Planning: The absence of structured Defence Plans necessitates the formulation of a NSS to provide urgency in planning.
• Operational Clarity: The NSS can guide decision-making processes in operational matters, enhancing accountability and reducing ambiguity.
• Whole-of-Nation Approach: This strategy can unify efforts across various sectors to leverage comprehensive national power and ensure cohesive operations.

Challenges in Codifying NSS in India:

• Lack of Political Will: Issues such as political discord on security matters, fear of accountability, and limited defence expertise hinder the formulation of an NSS.
• Loss of Strategic Flexibility: Committing to a formal NSS may restrict the political leadership's ability to adapt policies dynamically, unlike the more fluid ad hoc approaches.
• Resource Allocation: Implementing an NSS requires sufficient financial and human resources, as well as capability development to achieve set goals.
• Weak Institutional Support: The limited number of defence and security think-tanks in India hampers the development and feedback necessary for a robust NSS.

Previous Steps Taken to Draft NSS:

• Kargil Review Committee Report (2000): This report proposed recommendations for national security but did not lead to immediate NSS development.
• Naresh Chandra Committee on Security (2011): It facilitated discussions on security reforms but fell short of producing a formal NSS.
• Defence Planning Committee (2018): Chaired by the National Security Advisor, this committee is responsible for drafting a national security strategy.
• Hooda Committee: Established to recommend strategies for addressing evolving security challenges, this committee suggested several principles for a draft NSS.

Key Tenets Suggested by the Hooda Committee:

• Assuming Our Rightful Place in Global Affairs: Emphasizing India's role on the global stage.
• Achieving a Secure Neighbourhood: Fostering cooperation and stability in surrounding regions.
• Peaceful Resolution of Internal Conflicts: Addressing issues in the North East and combating terrorism.
• Protecting Our People: Focusing on economic security, cyber threats, and climate change implications.
• Strengthening Our Capabilities: Enhancing maritime security, space capabilities, and strategic communication.

Conclusion

The NSS can articulate clear objectives and methods while allowing for delegation and operational flexibility. It is essential for fostering innovation and adaptability at the operational level. To address confidentiality concerns, two versions of the document could be released: a public version for external stakeholders and a classified version for security agencies. As India approaches a phase of self-reliance and prosperity, it is vital to eliminate uncertainty in national security planning.

Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations

Why in news?

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) has unveiled India's inaugural Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations.  The Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations (JDCO) emphasizes the military dimensions of conducting operations within cyberspace. This initiative underscores the significance of cyberspace as a vital domain in contemporary warfare, alongside traditional domains such as Land, Sea, and Air.

About Cyber Space

• Cyberspace is defined as the global network of entities, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems, that process, store, and transmit digital information and code, irrespective of their connectivity status.

Military Advantages of Operating in Cyberspace

• Real-time intelligence collection enhances situational awareness and decision-making.
• Facilitates both offensive and defensive operations, allowing for proactive measures against threats.
• Improves communication channels, ensuring seamless coordination among military units.
• Enables signal intelligence, which is crucial for monitoring and intercepting enemy communications.

Vulnerabilities of Operating in Cyberspace

• Cyberspace warfare, or cyber-attacks, can incapacitate official websites and networks.
• Such attacks can disrupt or disable essential services, affecting civilian life and security.
• Cyber operations can lead to theft or alteration of sensitive information, jeopardizing national security.
• Financial systems can be severely impacted, leading to economic instability.

Significance of the Doctrine

• Provides essential conceptual guidance to military commanders and personnel for planning and executing cyberspace operations.
• Encourages collaboration and integration among the three armed forces (Army, Navy, and Air Force), which is essential for creating functional integrated theater commands.
• Assists India in competing on a global scale, particularly against nations like China, which have developed advanced cyber warfare capabilities, including cyber weapons aimed at undermining adversaries' military assets.
• Aims to prevent hostile actions in cyberspace that could adversely affect the nation's economy, social cohesion, political decision-making, and defense capacity.

Other Measures Taken for Strengthening Cyberspace Capabilities in India:

• Defence Cyber Agency (DCA): Established in 2019, the DCA functions as a tri-service organization responsible for addressing cybersecurity threats and coordinating defense efforts across the three services.
• Exercise Cyber Suraksha – 2024: Conducted by the Defence Cyber Agency to enhance the Cyber Defence Capability of all cybersecurity organizations and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
• Cyber Emergency Response Teams (CERTs): Formed by the Defence Services to prevent and respond to cyber attacks effectively.
• Cyber Security Operations Centre (CSOC): Monitors and manages cyber threats, ensuring the protection of defense-related information and communication systems, particularly within the Assam Rifles.

Conclusion

The doctrine is set to shape future military strategies and operations, reinforcing the crucial role of cyberspace in national defense.

About Chief of Defence Staff (CDS):

The CDS position was established in 2019 with the rank of a four-star General, based on recommendations from a Group of Ministers (GoM) in 2001 following the Shri K Subrahmanyam Committee Report.

Functions and Responsibilities:

• Leads the Department of Military Affairs, which is part of the Ministry of Defence, and serves as its Secretary.
• Acts as the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee.
• Serves as a member of the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by the Ministry of Defence, and the Defence Planning Committee, chaired by the National Security Advisor.
• Functions as the Principal Military Adviser to the Ministry of Defence on all tri-services military matters and as Military Adviser to the Nuclear Command Authority.
• Assigns inter-services priorities for capital acquisition proposals based on projected budgets.
• Does not exercise direct military command over the three Service Chiefs.

Aircraft Carrier

Why in the News?

India’s Defence Minister has recently announced plans for the country to begin constructing its second indigenous aircraft carrier, with aspirations to eventually build “five or six more” in the future.

More on News

An aircraft carrier provides a variety of strategic functions, including:

• Surveillance
• Air defense
• Airborne early warning systems
• Protection of Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC)
• Anti-submarine warfare
• The Navy Perspective Plan (1985-2000) identified the need for three aircraft carriers, ensuring that at least two are operational at any given time, with one in maintenance.
• This requirement was reinforced in the Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (2012-27) and the 2022-23 Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence report.
• Currently, the Indian Navy operates two aircraft carriers:
  (a) INS Vikramaditya
  (b) INS Vikrant
• Both are conventionally powered and utilize ski-jump ramps for aircraft launches.
• INS Vikrant, which means "valiant," is India's first indigenous carrier built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd., while INS Vikramaditya was acquired from Russia and has been operational since 2014.
• This achievement has positioned India alongside a select group of nations—China, France, the US, and the UK—that can construct their own aircraft carriers.
• Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) is preparing to start work on India's third aircraft carrier, marking a crucial advancement in India's naval capabilities.

Why India needs a third aircraft carrier?

• Enhancing Blue Water Navy Capabilities: The Indian Navy is recognized for its blue water operations, and adding a third aircraft carrier would strengthen this capability, which is vital as India aims to be a net security provider in the Indian Ocean region, particularly in light of its relations with China.
• Continuous Operational Readiness: With three carriers, India can ensure that at least two are always ready for deployment, maintaining coverage for both the eastern and western coasts.
• Incorporation of Advanced Technologies: The new carrier (IAC-2) is expected to incorporate modern systems such as the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and CATOBAR, allowing for the launch of heavier aircraft and expanded capabilities.
• Facilitating Soft Power Projection: In peacetime, aircraft carriers serve as platforms for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), complementing other military and logistical operations.

Conclusion

Addressing financial constraints and operational challenges while upgrading technological capabilities will be essential for India to enhance its aircraft carrier fleet in the context of regional competition and geopolitical dynamics.

Aircraft carrier versus Submarines

• The first Chief of Defence Staff viewed aircraft carriers as costly and unnecessary, arguing that the Indian military is not an expeditionary force and does not require carriers for distant deployment.
• Concerns exist about the vulnerability of aircraft carriers to missiles launched from both sea and land, leading to a preference for submarines.
• Submarines offer stealth capabilities and defensive weaponry and are less dependent on a protective screen compared to aircraft carriers, which operate on the surface.
• However, both aircraft carriers and submarines are vital for a balanced naval strategy, serving complementary roles: submarines focus on stealth and offense, while aircraft carriers provide versatility and broad mission support.

Forensic Science

Why in news?

Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the Central Sector Scheme known as the 'National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme' (NFIES) for the duration from 2024-25 to 2028-29. This initiative comes in response to an anticipated increase in the workload faced by forensic science laboratories. The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 requires forensic investigations for offenses that carry a punishment of seven years or more. 

The components approved under NFIES include:

• Establishment of campuses for the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU).
• Creation of Central Forensic Science Laboratories.
• Enhancement of the existing infrastructure of NFSU-Delhi.
• The Union Ministry of Home Affairs will provision the financial outlay for the Scheme from its own budget.

Significance of Forensics

• Criminal investigation, particularly where witness testimony is lacking or unreliable.
• Deterrence, advanced forensics may deter potential criminals knowing that sophisticated methods can link them to crimes.
• Disaster victim identification, in cases of mass disasters, terrorist attacks, or war crimes.
• Historical and archaeological insights, providing new insights into past events and civilizations.
• Cybercrime fighting, computer forensics has become increasingly significant in combating cyber threats and solving digital crimes.

About Forensics: 

Forensics is the application of scientific methods and techniques to investigate crimes and gather evidence for legal proceedings. This process involves:

• Collecting physical evidence.
• Preserving evidence for future analysis.
• Analyzing evidence to support or refute hypotheses in a court of law.

Techniques used in Forensics:

• DNA analysis: Used to identify individuals based on their unique genetic makeup.
• Fingerprint analysis: A method to match a suspect's fingerprints to those found at a crime scene.
• Ballistics: The study of firearms and ammunition to understand the trajectory and impact of bullets.
• Toxicology: Analyzing bodily fluids to detect the presence of drugs or poisons.
• Digital forensics: Investigating electronic devices for evidence of cybercrimes.

Challenges of Forensics in India:

• Infrastructure and resources: There is a limited number of forensic laboratories that are often under-resourced and overburdened, resulting in significant backlogs in case processing. For instance, there is approximately a 40% shortage of staff in forensic labs across India.
• Budget: There are inadequate budgetary allocations for modernizing state police forces, including their forensic capabilities.
• Quality and standardization: The lack of standardized procedures and protocols across different forensic laboratories leads to inconsistencies in forensic results.
• Legal and institutional: Issues concerning the admissibility and reliability of forensic evidence in courts arise from contamination, improper handling, and bureaucratic hurdles, which often result in inefficiencies and miscommunication.

Way Forward

Recommendations by Malimath Committee (2003):

• Establish a coordination mechanism among investigators, forensic experts, and prosecutors at the State and District levels to enhance effective investigations.
• Strengthen Forensic Medico Legal Services by ensuring adequate training facilities at both State and Central levels for professionals engaged in medico-legal work.
• Implement a year-long induction training program for newly recruited Prosecutors and Judges, incorporating practical experiences with police, courts, and prisons.
• Encourage universities to create departments of Forensic Science, eventually introducing forensic sciences as subjects at the school level.

Others:

• Cybercrime investigation: Expand the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) initiative with a focus on training more cybercrime investigators and establishing additional cyber forensic labs.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between law enforcement agencies and private forensic labs to enhance capabilities and reduce case backlogs.
• International collaborations: Strengthen partnerships with international forensic institutions for knowledge exchange and technological advancements in digital forensics and other emerging fields.

Financial Action Task Force (FATF)

Why in the News?

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) plenary held in Singapore adopted the 'Mutual Evaluation Report (MER) of India'. This marks a significant development as it reflects India's ongoing efforts to enhance its financial system's integrity and combat financial crimes. The first Mutual Evaluation of India was adopted in 2010. The current MER categorizes India under regular follow-up, acknowledging initiatives like the JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) Trinity and strict regulations on cash transactions. These initiatives have notably improved financial inclusion and increased the traceability of digital transactions.

What is MER of FATF?

• MER is an assessment of a nation's efforts to address money laundering and the financing of terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
• These reports are conducted through peer reviews, where representatives from different countries evaluate another country's compliance and effectiveness.
• During a mutual evaluation, the country under assessment must demonstrate that it possesses a robust framework to safeguard its financial system from potential abuses.
• MER consists of two main components: effectiveness rating and technical compliance assessment.

Categorization of countries in MER:

• Regular follow-up: This top tier includes only 24 countries, such as India, the UK, Italy, France, and Russia (all members of the G20).
• Enhanced follow-up: Countries with significant deficiencies, including developed nations like the US, Australia, and several European countries.
• ICRG review: High-risk jurisdictions are monitored and given a one-year observation period to rectify deficiencies. Failure to do so may lead to placement on the Black or Grey list.

Genesis:

• The FATF was established in 1989 during a G-7 Summit held in Paris.

Membership:

• It comprises 38 member countries, including Russia, whose membership is currently suspended. India has been a member since 2010.

FATF Style Regional Bodies:

• Nine regional bodies have been created to promote international standards for combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and related threats.

Key Role:

• The FATF serves as an international watchdog, overseeing efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
• It establishes standards for both countries and regulated entities, whether financial or non-financial.

Financial inclusion:

• Promoting financial inclusion has been a priority for the FATF since the late 2000s, aiming to integrate more individuals into the formal financial system for better transaction monitoring.
• The FATF has initiated a project on unintended consequences, which includes a focus on preventing financial exclusion.

Grey and Black List of FATF:

• Grey List (Jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring): Countries actively collaborating with the FATF to address identified strategic deficiencies.
• These nations have committed to resolving issues within agreed timelines and are subject to heightened scrutiny.
• Black List (High-Risk Jurisdictions subject to a Call for Action): Countries with serious deficiencies that require immediate action. The FATF urges all members to apply enhanced due diligence for these jurisdictions.

What makes the functioning of FATF less effective?

• Perceived lack of objectivity: Decisions are made by consensus, with no formal rules on how many objections are needed to reject a proposal or exempt a country from the grey list.
• Weakness in Listing Regime: The lack of distinction between jurisdictions in the grey list complicates the response to non-compliant countries.
• Lack of effectiveness: The FATF often relies on assurances without assessing actual performance, leading to cases like Pakistan's removal from the grey list despite ongoing issues.
• Marginalization of Global South voices: Countries in the Global South often struggle to allocate sufficient resources to combat money laundering, leading to inconsistent placements on the grey list.
• Emerging sources of terror financing: The rise of cryptocurrencies offers new methods for terrorists to transfer funds anonymously.

Way forward for making FATF more effective:

• Categorization within grey list: Classifying countries based on their compliance willingness can enhance efforts against money laundering and terrorism financing.
• Enhance transparency in functioning: This can be achieved by formalizing appointments within the secretariat through an open and competitive process.
• Tailored response to the needs of poorer countries: Providing special assistance to nations in need can strengthen their financial and regulatory frameworks.
• Global cooperation: Strengthening collaboration with international organizations like the IMF, World Bank, and regional bodies can help the FATF achieve its objectives.
• Capacity building: The FATF must continuously adapt its standards to address emerging risks, such as those posed by virtual currencies.