Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The National Security Council (NSC) of India, established in 1998 following the Kargil Review Committee recommendations, serves as the apex body for coordinating national security matters. It was formalized through a government resolution in 2014, solidifying its structure and functions. The NSC’s creation reflected a growing recognition of the need for integrated strategic thinking and proactive security management in a complex geopolitical landscape. It aims to provide a platform for high-level deliberation and decision-making on national security issues, impacting both domestic and foreign policy.
Structure of the National Security Council
The NSC comprises the following key members:
- Prime Minister: As the Chairperson.
- National Security Advisor (NSA): The principal advisor to the Prime Minister on national security issues and the head of the NSC Secretariat.
- Defence Minister
- External Affairs Minister
- Home Minister
- Finance Minister
- Cabinet Secretary
- Chief of Staff Committee (COSC) – representing the three service chiefs.
- Secretary (R&AW) – representing the Research and Analysis Wing.
- Secretary (Home)
The NSC also has a NSC Secretariat headed by the Principal Secretary to the NSA, which provides administrative and analytical support.
Functions of the National Security Council
The NSC performs a range of crucial functions:
- Strategic Policy Formulation: It analyzes long-term security threats and formulates strategic policies to address them.
- Inter-Agency Coordination: It facilitates coordination between various government departments and agencies involved in national security, such as the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of External Affairs, and intelligence agencies.
- Crisis Management: It provides a platform for quick and effective decision-making during national security crises.
- Intelligence Assessment: It assesses intelligence reports and provides timely and accurate information to the Prime Minister and other policymakers.
- Policy Implementation Monitoring: It monitors the implementation of national security policies and recommends necessary adjustments.
Role in Formulation of Indian Foreign Policy
The NSC plays a significant role in shaping Indian foreign policy by:
- Providing Strategic Input: The NSA and the NSC Secretariat provide the Prime Minister with strategic assessments of geopolitical developments and their implications for India’s foreign policy.
- Coordinating Foreign Policy Initiatives: The NSC coordinates foreign policy initiatives with other relevant ministries and agencies, ensuring a cohesive and integrated approach.
- Analyzing Regional Dynamics: It analyzes regional dynamics and provides insights into the security challenges and opportunities in India’s neighborhood.
- Developing Contingency Plans: It develops contingency plans to address potential threats to India’s national interests abroad.
Example: The NSC played a crucial role in formulating India’s response to the 2008 Mumbai attacks, coordinating intelligence gathering, diplomatic efforts, and security measures. Similarly, it was instrumental in shaping India’s approach to the Doklam standoff with China in 2017, providing strategic guidance and coordinating diplomatic and military responses.
Another Example: The NSC’s involvement in the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 involved careful assessment of the security implications and coordination with various agencies to manage the fallout, including potential international reactions.
Conclusion
The National Security Council has evolved into a vital institution for India’s national security apparatus. By providing a platform for integrated strategic thinking and inter-agency coordination, it enhances India’s ability to address complex security challenges and formulate effective foreign policy. Strengthening the NSC’s analytical capabilities and ensuring its continued independence will be crucial for safeguarding India’s national interests in an increasingly volatile global environment.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.