National Security Strategy (NSS), Need, Advantages

National Security Strategy (NSS) is an official document detailing a country's defence objectives and tactics. Check here Need, Advantages and Framework of National Security Policy.

Table of Contents

The call for a National Security Strategy (NSS) in India has gained attention due to increasing geopolitical tensions (both regionally and globally) and economic ambitions.

National Security Strategy (NSS)

A National Security Strategy (NSS) is an official document detailing a country’s defence objectives and tactics.
It encompasses various threats, conventional and unconventional, offering a comprehensive perspective on national defence.
The strategy informs and directs a country’s defence and security policies.
It influences the country’s military, economic, and diplomatic actions to safeguard its interests and security.
Examples: Developed nations such as the USA, UK, and Russia have established NSS documents.
- Pakistan published its National Security Policy for the period 2022-2026.

Interpreting the Term ‘National Security’

The term “national security” has varying definitions across countries and eras.
The U.S. NSS emphasises a blend of values and national interests, often prioritising economic gains over democratic ideals.
The UK’s Integrated Review (2021) focuses on collaboration with allies despite budget constraints.
France’s recent strategy reflects its aspirations for European leadership amid global conflicts.

India’s Ongoing Quest for a National Security Strategy

Attempts at Formulating NSS

India, since gaining independence in 1947, has yet to finalise a National Security Strategy (NSS).
A draft was created by the Integrated Defence Staff in 2007 but failed to gain approval from the Cabinet Committee of Security.
In 2018, the Government of India (GoI) initiated the Defence Planning Committee to draft the NSS.
By 2021, CDS General Bipin Rawat highlighted the urgency of establishing an NSS.

Need For NSS

Beyond Traditional Military Defense: A state’s security includes challenges beyond just military strength, covering economic, social, and political issues.
Root Causes of Domestic Threats: Immediate responses often overlook underlying issues, potentially worsening the situation.
- Example: India’s left-wing extremism has deep-seated origins in tribal exploitation.
Interconnected Domestic and International Threats: The distinction between internal and external security threats is increasingly ambiguous.
- Issues like terrorism may present domestically but are often globally interconnected, requiring both internal and external strategies.
Integrating Internal and External Security Measures: A thorough NSS is vital to comprehend and manage the interconnected nature of security threats. Such a strategy ensures that security responses are not isolated but are part of a coordinated policy effort.

Advantages of Establishing an NSS

Steer military and security-related reforms.
Offer a complete perspective on national security, identifying threats and creating a framework to counter them.
Facilitate significant military reforms.
Enhance accountability within defence management, an area currently perceived as deficient.

Framework of National Security Policy

Objective Definition: Specify key assets for protection and pinpoint adversaries threatening the nation’s stability.
Priority Setting: Initiate specialised divisions for technological innovation, with a spotlight on sectors such as hydrogen energy, water purification technologies, and cybersecurity.
Strategic Evolution: Craft a nuanced strategy poised for pre-emptive actions and the deterrence of hostile entities.
Agenda Expansion: Prioritise areas like advanced and emerging tech, digital and physical connectivity, infrastructure resilience, cybersecurity, and naval security.
Policymaker Involvement: Dedicate a specific cybersecurity budget, form an elite cyber unit to combat digital threats, and leverage India’s prowess in software to bolster state-level cyber defences.
Defence and Cyber Exploitation: Safeguard essential services, encourage transparency in reporting cyber incidents, navigate the intricacies of cyber deterrence, and gear up for cyber conflict to uphold national security goals.