India must update its security strategy and shed obsession with Pakistan

Source– The post is based on the article “India must update its security strategy and shed obsession with Pakistan” published in The Indian Express on 23rd February 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Security

Relevance: National security framework of India

News- The article explains the need for national security strategy for the 21st century.

What are issues with India’s national security?

India is lacking a concrete national security strategy.

India has created the National Security Council to write a National Security Strategy but it was never held accountable for not producing one.

India has a land-centric defence budget. The Navy and Air Force are underfunded.

What is the way forward to improve the national security of India?

India has rightly created a CDS and an integrated staff. If NSC is unable to write a National Security Strategy, the Integrated Staff can write the theaterisation plan and a National Military Strategy.

In this 21st century, both theaterisation and the geographical difficulties in the Himalayas. There is a need for grand maritime strategy.

Pakistan has been successful in an asymmetric warfare game with India for half a century. But the over-extension of resources has now led to its collapse. India should not be overly concerned about Pakistan India’s strategic thinking should come out of the 20th century and face the new century with fresh minds.