Introduction
India's Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) recently emphasized the need for a formal National Security Strategy (NSS) at a book-release function.
This statement indicates a significant shift in policy and underscores the importance of having a written NSS.
The ongoing debate about the necessity and formulation of such a strategy is crucial for India’s national security, operational clarity, and future military preparedness.
Historical Context and Current Challenges
Background on National Security Strategy (NSS)
Despite multiple drafts over the past two decades, India still lacks a formal NSS. The Defence Planning Committee, established in 2018 under the National Security Advisor, was tasked with formulating the NSS and National Defence Strategy, but the progress and status remain unclear.
Currently, India relies on the Defence Minister’s Operational Directive, which is considered cryptic and inadequate.
Global Comparisons
Most relevant nations, including China and Pakistan, have formal NSS documents and regularly publish white papers. Even Pakistan has a National Security Policy (2022-26).
Unlike Israel and Pakistan, India’s challenges require a customized approach, emphasizing the necessity of a formal NSS.
The Benefits of a National Security Strategy in India
Whole of Nation Approach
A well-crafted NSS would foster a “whole of nation” approach, building synergy to harness comprehensive national power (CNP).
This approach would set clear milestones for capability-building, modernization, infrastructure development, and the Atma Nirbhar (self-reliance) mission.
Planning and Modernization
Defence Planning: The current status of defence planning is in transition, with new formats like the Integrated Capability Plan (10 years) and Defence Capability Acquisition Plan (5 years) yet to stabilize. An NSS would streamline these efforts and provide a clear framework.
Enhanced Reviews: Existing review systems by the Parliamentary Standing Committee and Auditor General are sub-optimal. An NSS backed by net-assessment and statistical tools would improve periodic audits and predictive, dynamic goal setting.
Operational Clarity and Decision Making
Decentralized Command: The NSS is critical for operational clarity and ease of decision-making, transitioning from over-centralization to a Decentralized Directive Style of Command (DSOC). This shift would foster initiative, innovation, and improvisation at the operational level.
In the current system, Army Commanders do not engage in a meaningful handover procedure, which is largely ceremonial. While theatre responses during the Doklam crisis were commendable, strategic guidance was sketchy.
The current model has delivered due to the competence of present leadership, but it suffers from over-centralization. In the long term, it needs to be replaced by a decentralized Directive Style of Command (DSOC).
Historical Examples: Commanders like Field Marshal ‘Sam’ Manekshaw, Lt Gen Harbaksh Singh, and Lt Gen Sagat Singh exemplify the benefits of clear strategic direction and operational freedom.
Implementation and Future Prospects
Theatre Commands and Transformation
The NSS could spell out clear-cut ends, ways, and means, while relying on delegation, synergy, and operational freedom. At the cutting-edge level, it will foster initiative, innovation, and improvisation.
An NSS is a prerequisite for the operationalization of theatre commands, which are essential for modern military operations.
Clear strategic direction would enable audacious and effective military leadership.
Addressing Ambiguities and Confidentiality
Classified Portions: Every NSS can have a classified portion to maintain confidentiality while allowing for transparency and informed public debate.
Targeted Ambiguity: Where necessary, targeted ambiguity can be used for strategic messaging, balancing openness with security needs.
Moving Forward
As India enters Amrit Kaal, a term signifying a prosperous and self-reliant future, it is crucial to discard hesitation and ambiguity in national security planning.
Informed debates based on a clear NSS are essential, rather than relying on sporadic public statements and social media campaigns.
Conclusion
India’s need for a formal National Security Strategy is evident in the context of its evolving security challenges and strategic ambitions.
A comprehensive NSS would provide the necessary framework for coordinated national efforts, enhance operational clarity, and prepare the country for future security scenarios.
The formulation and implementation of such a strategy should be a priority for the current government to ensure India’s long-term security and strategic interests.
(India National Security Strategy, National Security Doctrine, Chief of Defence Staff India, Indian Defence Planning, Comprehensive National Power, Integrated Capability Plan, Defence Capability Acquisition Plan, Theatre Commands India, Atma Nirbhar Bharat, India Strategic Security, Decentralized Command India, Operational Clarity India Military, Indian Express Security Analysis, UPSC, CAPF, CDS, NDA, SSB, AFCAT, CSE, IAS, IB ACIO, Current Affairs, News)
댓글