Shortcomings in India’s national security architecture

National Security Act : It allows preventive detention for months, if authorities are satisfy that a person is a threat to national security or law and order. The person does not need to be charged during this period of detention. The goal is to prevent the individual from committing a crime.

National Security Institutions

The National Security Council (NSC) was established in 1998 as an advisory body in India.
Currently, the Cabinet Committee on Security holds executive powers, while the NSC has limited meetings.
To enhance the effectiveness of the NSC, there is a need to amend the government’s allocation of business rules.
The NSC and its subordinate organizations, like the Strategic Policy Group, should be given more powers.
Strengthening national security institutions and revamping their functioning is crucial for better governance and security in the country.

National Security Adviser

The role of the National Security Adviser (NSA) needs to be redesign for better effectiveness.
The NSA plays a significant role in national security but lacks legal powers according to government rules.
The K.C. Pant Task Force recommended creating an NSA with the rank of a Cabinet Minister.
Implementing the Task Force’s recommendations would provide more accountability and legal formality to the NSA.
The NSA to be accountable to Parliament for better oversight and transparency in national security matters.

Reforms in National Security Planning

Fundamental structural reforms are require in national security planning.
The Defence Planning Committee (DPC) has been establish to recommend policy measures for enhancing India’s defence capability and national security.
The DPC is overburden with multiple responsibilities and is currently an advisory body.
The appointment of the National Security Adviser (NSA) as the chair of the DPC has hindered the demand for a Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS).
There is a need to address the concerns regarding the DPC’s effectiveness and the appointment of a CDS for better coordination and strategic planning in national security.

FAQs Related to shortcomings in India’s national security architecture

Ques 1: What are some shortcomings in India’s national security architecture?

Answer: Some shortcomings include the lack of coordination among various agencies, inadequate intelligence sharing, and limited integration of military and civilian efforts.

Ques 2: How will the coordination among national security agencies be improve?

Answer: Enhancing inter-agency cooperation, establishing clear lines of communication, and promoting joint planning and training exercises can improve coordination.

Ques 3: What measures can address the shortcomings in India’s national security architecture?

Answer: Reforms such as creating a Chief of Defence Staff, strengthening intelligence gathering and analysis capabilities, and enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure can address the shortcomings.