India's Path to a Comprehensive National Security Strategy
India, a nation with a rich and complex history, is taking a significant step towards ensuring its future security with the development of its first-ever National Security Strategy (NSS). This pivotal move comes after years of deliberation and contemplation within the country's security establishment, with Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd) PVSM AVSM, a former Commander-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, shedding light on the importance of this strategy in a recent interview.
The NSS, as envisaged, is not limited to traditional military and internal security concerns. Instead, it aims to encompass a comprehensive framework that addresses the multifaceted nature of security in the modern world. This includes not only military security but also economic, internal, diplomatic, human, climate, food, water, and other forms of security vital for the well-being of India's citizens.
One of the primary reasons for embarking on this journey towards an NSS is the evolving strategic landscape and the growing maturity of India's military and strategic communities. India's increasing stature on the global stage, coupled with complex geopolitical scenarios, demands a well-defined and articulated strategy for safeguarding its national interests.
The development of the NSS will be a collaborative and iterative process, involving wide consultations and inter-ministerial dialogue. It's an acknowledgment that no single entity or group of individuals can comprehend the myriad dimensions of national security. This inclusive approach will ensure a robust and adaptable strategy that caters to changing paradigms.
Furthermore, the NSS will have two versions—one for public release and another strictly for classified readership. This duality is necessary to balance the transparency required to inform the public with the need to protect sensitive information.
When crafting the NSS, India will draw inspiration from its constitution, which is the longest written constitution in the world. Guiding principles from the constitution will serve as a foundation for the strategy, aligning it with the nation's fundamental values and principles.
The NSS will play a crucial role in guiding the development of various doctrines and strategies across different levels of government. From national strategic doctrines to military operational doctrines, each will be guided by and in consonance with the NSS. This interconnectedness ensures a unified and coherent approach to national security.
While there is no fixed timeline for the completion of the NSS, it's an endeavor that must be carried out diligently, with the understanding that strategies should be adaptable to changing circumstances. Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta suggests that a reasonable timeframe for its development could be two years.
In conclusion, India's journey towards formulating its National Security Strategy is a significant milestone in ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens in an ever-changing world. It reflects the nation's commitment to evolving and adapting its security apparatus to meet the challenges of the future. As this strategy takes shape, it will be a testament to India's strategic maturity and its dedication to securing its place on the global stage.