The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 23rd September 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

India needs a ‘National Security Strategy’ 

Why in News?

The demand for a national security strategy is again under public discussion as the neighbourhood gets into a flux, old enemies muscle up, and new friends are yet to commit themselves. India’s economic ambitions to be a $4 trillion economy, is also likely to also face strong headwinds as the wars in Ukraine and Gaza continue, dragging down global growth. The economy is really the key to everything else. After all, everyone wants a slice of the economic pie, from the Ministry of Health to the Ministry of Defence. That means prioritisation within rather scarce resources, and that is the key to national security strategy making.

What is National Security Strategy (NSS)?

• An NSS is a brief overview of a country's strategic goals and plans.
• It includes both internal and external challenges that the country faces.
• The document addresses traditional threats, such as military issues, as well as non-traditional threats, like cyber security and terrorism.
• It also looks at opportunities that can help the country progress.
• The NSS is updated regularly to reflect changes in the country's situation and the world around it.

Why does India need a written National Security Strategy?

• Lack of Written Policy: The only guidance for the Armed Forces comes from the Raksha Mantri’s operational Directive from 2009, which is outdated and has not been revised.
• Need for Updates: Major countries like the US, UK, and Russia have published and regularly updated their National Security Strategies (NSS).
• Adapt to Changing Security Needs: Regular reviews of threats, opportunities, and global security trends can help the government respond to new challenges such as hybrid warfare and the expansion of the Chinese navy.
• Framework for Long-term Planning: A clear strategy for the future can prevent short-term, hasty, and regime-centric decisions regarding important national security matters.
• Strategic Signaling: An updated NSS will clarify India’s strategic intentions to both allies and adversaries, underscore its role as a security provider in the Indian Ocean, and strengthen collaborations with partners.
• Continuity in Defence Planning: The lack of ongoing Defence Plans (5-year plans) and Long-Term Perspective Plans (15-year plans) makes it urgent to develop a new NSS.
• Operational Clarity: An NSS can aid in decision-making related to delegation, the operationalization of theatre commands, and other critical areas.
• Reduce Ambiguity: A well-defined NSS will help decrease confusion and foster meaningful accountability, serving as a reference for evaluation by think tanks.
• Whole of Nation Approach: This strategy can help create synergy to utilize comprehensive national power and improve coordination of operations effectively.

Challenges in codifying NSS in India

• Lack of Political Will: Factors such as absence of agreement among political leaders on national security issues, fear of being held accountable, and limited knowledge about defense topics have made it difficult for political leaders to create a National Security Strategy (NSS).
• Loss of Strategic Flexibility: Creating an NSS would require political leaders to stick to a particular plan, while flexible policymaking allows them to adapt to changing situations. For example: Israel functions without formal NSS policies.
• Resource Allocation: To implement an NSS effectively, it is essential to have enough financial resources and human resources, along with the ability to develop skills to achieve the goals set out in the strategy.
• Weak Institutional Support and Policy Feedback: Currently, there are very few defense and security think tanks in India, which limits institutional support and feedback for policy development.

Previous steps taken to draft NSS

• Kargil Review Committee Report (2000): This report made suggestions regarding national security but did not lead to the quick creation of a National Security Strategy (NSS).
• Naresh Chandra Committee on Security (2011): This committee started important conversations about security changes, but it did not result in the development of the NSS.
• Defence Planning Committee (2018): Led by the National Security Advisor, this is a permanent group responsible for drafting a national security strategy and more.
• Hooda Committee (2018): This committee was formed to recommend a complete National Security Strategy to tackle new security issues and improve India's defense capabilities. It proposed the following key points for the draft NSS:
  • Assuming our Rightful Place in Global Affairs: Emphasizing the importance of playing a significant role on the world stage.
  • Achieving a Secure Neighbourhood: Focusing on cooperation and stability with neighboring countries.
  • Peaceful Resolution of Internal Conflicts: Working to integrate the North East region and address issues like terrorism.
  • Protecting our People: Ensuring economic security and tackling threats from cyber attacks and climate change.
  • Strengthening our Capabilities: Enhancing security at maritime borders, in space, and through strategic communication.

Conclusion

• NSS can outline clear goals, methods, and strategies, using delegation, teamwork, and operational freedom.
• At a high level, it will encourage initiative, creativity, and adaptability.
• To address confidentialityconcerns, two versions of the document can be produced:
  • A public version for outside parties and opponents, outlining our goals and methods.
  • A classified version for security agencies to implement.
• As India enters Amrit Kaal, which represents a time of prosperity and self-reliance, it is vital to remove any doubt and uncertainty from national security planning.