Answer

Despite possessing a robust nuclear capability, India has traditionally relied on reactive security approaches, focusing on addressing threats only after they emerge. A more proactive, integrated national security doctrine, blending military strategy, diplomatic outreach, cultural influence, and historical wisdom, is crucial to enhance India’s deterrence capability and regional standing.

India’s Reactive Security Approach

• Limited Preemptive Action: India has focused on reacting to immediate threats rather than proactively addressing emerging security concerns.
  Example: Operation Parakram (2001-2002) was conducted post attack on the Indian Parliament.
• Strategic Restraint: India’s nuclear doctrine emphasizes no first use (NFU), implying a reactive defense stance even with nuclear deterrence.
• Reliance on Diplomacy Post-Crisis: Indian security response often escalates only after tensions, relying on diplomacy to de-escalate.
  Example: The Doklam standoff (2017) saw diplomatic dialogue following military tension, rather than preemptive conflict prevention strategies.
• Lack of Unified Security Vision: A fragmented approach exists between civilian and military policy regarding national security.
  Example: Weak Inter-ministerial coordination hinders holistic and proactive security strategy formulation.

Need for a Comprehensive National Security Doctrine

• Military Strategy Integration: A comprehensive doctrine must balance military readiness with strategic foresight to deter threats before they manifest.
  Example: The defense modernization programs, such as Make in India, should be integrated into a unified defense strategy.
• Diplomatic Outreach: India should adopt proactive diplomacy to engage potential adversaries and allies to strengthen security frameworks.
  Example: The Quad Alliance (US, Japan, Australia, India) is a result of proactive diplomatic engagement to counter China’s growing influence.
• Cultural Influence and Soft Power: Incorporating India’s rich cultural heritage can enhance diplomatic relations and help build lasting peace.
  Example: Yoga and Ayurveda diplomacy, through initiatives like International Day of Yoga, strengthens India’s global cultural influence.
• Historical Wisdom: A security doctrine must consider India’s historical resilience and emphasize lessons learned from past conflicts.
  Example: India’s experience in the 1962 Sino-Indian War highlighted the importance of preparedness, reflecting in present-day defense strategies.
• Holistic National Security: The integration of economic, environmental, and cybersecurity strategies ensures a broader, future-oriented security doctrine.
  Example: Cybersecurity measures have been enhanced with the National Cyber Security Policy (2013) as part of broader security planning.
• Evolving Global Threats: Adapting to emerging global security challenges like terrorism, cyber threats, and economic warfare requires proactive doctrine.
  Example: India’s involvement in UN peacekeeping operations and counter-terrorism efforts addresses non-traditional security threats.

Enhancing Deterrence Capability and Regional Standing

Deterrence Capability

• Nuclear Deterrence Enhancement: A proactive doctrine should include a credible nuclear deterrent, ensuring national security through preparedness.
  Example: India’s Agni-V missile system improves long-range strike capabilities, strengthening deterrence.
• Conventional Military Strengthening: Investment in high-tech conventional forces complements nuclear deterrence, maintaining credible defense.
  Example: The Indian Air Force’s Rafale jets significantly enhance India’s conventional defense capabilities.
• Cyber Deterrence and Space Defense: This ensures protection against non-traditional threats, strengthening deterrence.
  Example: India’s Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) supports the development of space defense technologies to safeguard critical infrastructure.

Regional Standing

• Strengthening Regional Alliances: By pursuing proactive regional diplomacy and aligning with key neighbors, India can improve its strategic positioning.
  Example: India’s bilateral defense cooperation with countries like Bangladesh  and Nepal enhances regional security.
• Regional Influence through Economic Power: Economic power can serve as an extension of India’s deterrence capability in the region.
  Example: India’s Act East Policy helps strengthen economic ties with Southeast Asian nations.
• Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power: Leveraging India’s cultural influence through soft power tools such as media, education, and people-to-people engagement enhances regional standing.
  Example: Indian Cultural Centers in Southeast Asia and Africa play a role in promoting regional influence through cultural diplomacy and education exchanges.

India’s security framework requires a comprehensive national security doctrine that integrates military strength, diplomatic outreach, cultural influence, and historical wisdom. This proactive approach will enhance India’s deterrence capabilities and strengthen its regional standing, ensuring long-term peace and stability.