Source: All India Radio (AIR), PIB, The Hindu
Context
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent strategic communication, outlined key principles of India’s evolving National Security Doctrine, emphasizing “Decisive Retaliation” as a central tenet of India’s defence and deterrence strategy.
This doctrine has assumed significance in the backdrop of:
- Cross-border terrorism
- Emerging regional threats (China–Pakistan axis)
- Evolving technology-driven warfare
Key Features of the National Security Doctrine (2025 Vision)
1. Decisive Retaliation as Deterrence
- India will no longer be seen as reactive but capable of prompt, strong counter-actions.
- Response to aggression will be multi-dimensional—military, cyber, diplomatic.
- Message to adversaries: “New India will respond to provocation with forceful retaliation”.
2. Zero-Tolerance to Terrorism
- Reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, both domestic and cross-border.
- Called upon global powers to stop viewing terrorism through political or strategic lenses.
3. Integrated and Modernized Armed Forces
- Pushing for theaterisation of commands and creation of a joint defence structure.
- Emphasis on indigenisation of defence through the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
- e.g., Tejas, INS Vikrant, Akash missile systems.
4. Technological Edge
- National security to include cybersecurity, space security, artificial intelligence, and UAV systems.
- Establishment of Defence Space Agency (DSA) and enhanced cyber-command structures.
5. Internal Security Reinforcement
- Reforms in CAPFs, especially BSF, CRPF, ITBP to combat Maoist and insurgent threats.
- Focus on J&K normalization and border fencing with high-tech surveillance.
6. Neighbourhood First & Strategic Autonomy
- Balancing soft power with hard deterrence.
- Continued commitment to strategic autonomy (non-alignment) while forging issue-based alliances (QUAD, I2U2, G20 security partnerships).
Significance for India’s National Interest
| Dimension | Impact |
|---|---|
| Strategic Deterrence | Boosts India’s global image as a strong, non-hesitant power |
| Internal Security | Reinforces crackdown on terror modules, secessionist movements |
| Defence Modernisation | Pushes for indigenisation, reducing import dependency |
| Diplomatic Messaging | Signals strategic clarity to China and Pakistan |
Analysis (GS Paper 3 – Internal Security)
- This doctrine builds on past military responses:
- 2016 Surgical Strikes
- 2019 Balakot Airstrikes
- PM’s language reflects a shift from strategic restraint to strategic assertion.
- Fits into the broader push for India as a Vishwaguru (global leader) in defence diplomacy.
Link with Recent Developments
- 2025 Defence Budget: ₹6.2 lakh crore (13% rise) with capital outlay for indigenous systems.
- Army’s new Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) being tested.
- Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2024 revised for faster procurement.
- India’s participation in global military drills (e.g., Milan 2024, Vostok, Malabar).
UPSC Keywords
- Decisive retaliation
- National security doctrine
- Strategic deterrence
- Theatre commands
- Atmanirbhar defence
- Comprehensive national power (CNP)
Mains Answer Writing Tip
Use this doctrine to substantiate answers in:
- GS 3 (Security)
- Essay (India’s role in emerging global order)
- GS 2 (India’s foreign policy shift toward assertiveness)