PM’s National Security Doctrine Featuring Decisive Retaliation Policy

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

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)