Context: In the wake of the ongoing confrontation between India and Pakistan, after the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Kashmir, the need for a comprehensive National Security Doctrine for India becomes more pertinent.
What is the National Security Doctrine?
A National Security Doctrine (NSD) is a comprehensive strategic framework that articulates a country’s core national interests and security objectives. It:
Defines both traditional (military, territorial) and non-traditional (cyber, climate, pandemics) threats.
Establishes the roles and responsibilities of security agencies.
Acts as a guiding philosophy for defense and foreign policy.
⚠️ While many developed nations possess formal doctrines guiding their military and security strategies, India currently lacks an explicit National Security Doctrine.
Need for a National Security Doctrine in India
India faces multidimensional security challenges, necessitating a structured and unified doctrine:
1. Internal Security Challenges
Cross-border terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir.
Left-wing extremism (Naxalism).
Insurgency in the North-East.
Ethnic and communal tensions, e.g., Manipur conflict.
2. External Security Challenges
Persistent boundary disputes with China and Pakistan.
Strategic challenge from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its growing presence in the Indian Ocean Region.
3. Non-Traditional Security Challenges
Climate change, natural disasters, and pandemics.
Cybersecurity threats, especially on critical infrastructure.
Drug trafficking and other transnational crimes.
📌 Several expert panels, such as the Naresh Chandra Task Force (2012) and the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence (2021), have strongly recommended formulating a National Security Doctrine.
Significance of a National Security Doctrine
1. Strategic Guidance
Provides coherent long-term planning for national security.
Ensures standardization of procedures (e.g., SOPs for modernization and resource allocation).
2. Prompt and Effective Decision-Making
Enables quick responses through a clearly defined National Security Strategy.
3. Integrated Defence Planning
Promotes synergy among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Enhances coordination among ministries, intelligence agencies, and armed forces for hybrid warfare.
4. Consistent Security Response
Reduces adhocism in crisis management, especially during political transitions or coalition governments.
5. Projection of India’s Global Role
Positions India as a net security provider, exemplified by initiatives like Mission Sagar (COVID-19 pandemic relief in the Indian Ocean Region).