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.
Relevance of the Topic: Mains: National Security Doctrine: Need and Significance.
What is the National Security Doctrine?
- National Security Doctrine (NSD) is a comprehensive framework that outlines a country’s national interest and security objectives. It defines traditional, non-traditional threats and opportunities, and outlines the accountability of its security agencies.
Developed countries have certain core principles that guide their military machines called the strategic doctrine. However, India does not have an explicit National Security Doctrine.
Need for National Security Doctrine in India:
Traditional and non-traditional security challenges facing India have necessitated a comprehensive National Security Doctrine.
- Internal Security Challenges:
- Cross-border terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir
- Naxalism and North-East Insurgency
- Ethnic tensions & communal conflicts. E.g., Manipur Conflict
- External Security Challenges:
- Boundary-disputes and skirmishes with China & Pakistan
- China's Belt and Road Initiative and its influence in the Indian Ocean Region
- Non Traditional Security Challenges:
- Climate change, natural disasters and outbreak of pandemic
- Drug trafficking and transnational crimes
- Cyber-security threats on critical infrastructure
Various committees like Naresh Chandra Task Force (2012), Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence (2021) have emphasised the need for NSD.
Significance of National Security Doctrine:
- Strategic Guidance: Ensure coherent long-term planning and Standardisation of Procedures (E.g., SOPs for military modernisation and allocation of resources)
- Prompt and Effective Decision-Making based on the National Security Strategy outlined in the NSD.
- Integrated Defence Planning: Synergy across Army, Navy, and Air Force to meet hybrid threats and increased operational efficiency. It will synchronise the coordination among Ministries, Intelligence Agencies, and Armed forces.
- Consistent Security Response: Reduce adhocism in dealing with security challenges during coalition government or change in government.
- Define India’s role in the world and showcase itself as a net security provider, such as during the Mission Sagar initiative for COVID-19 pandemic relief.
The doctrinal approach to security would not only minimise the threat of war but also enhances India’s sphere of positive influence. This would also fill the crucial gaps in higher military management and offer a strategic blueprint to navigate the complex global security landscape.