Indian Express Editorial Summary

Editorial Topic : Analysis of Setbacks in India’s Foreign and Security Interests

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In the past three years, India has faced significant challenges in its immediate neighborhood, particularly in Afghanistan, Maldives, and Bangladesh. These challenges raise critical questions about the effectiveness of India’s foreign and security policies. Below is an analysis in pointer form covering the key aspects:

Domestic Response to the Situation

• Political and Security Introspection: It is crucial for both political and security classes in India to reflect on recent setbacks without engaging in political point-scoring.
• All-Party Meeting: The Indian government organized an all-party meeting to inform the Opposition about developments in Bangladesh, showing a willingness to maintain a unified approach to foreign policy.
• Constructive Dialogue: The ongoing dialogue between the government and the Opposition is necessary not only for addressing immediate issues but also for reassessing policy-making structures to prevent future setbacks.
• Reliance on Professional Advice: The government must rely on the expertise and professional advice from various ministries and agencies responsible for managing India’s external interests, in addition to the judgments and instincts of its leadership.

India’s Foreign Policy Apparatus

• Role of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): The MEA, staffed by the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), is responsible for managing India’s foreign policy, with diplomats specifically chosen for their regional and global expertise.
• Role of Embassies: In neighboring countries, Indian embassies are led by diplomats selected for their competence, with a focus on safeguarding and promoting national interests.
• External Intelligence (R&AW): Established in 1968, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) is tasked with uncovering information that impacts India’s external interests, complementing the work of diplomats and other agencies.
• Coordination Among Agencies: While diplomats, intelligence officers, and other related ministries have different methods and roles, their work is complementary and essential for a cohesive foreign policy.

Need for Changes in Security Structures Post-1998

• New Challenges Post-Nuclear Era: After India became a nuclear state in 1998, new security structures were necessary to address emerging challenges from global power shifts and technological advancements in cyber and space domains.
• Regional Concerns: China’s rise and its ongoing hostility towards India have heightened security concerns in the neighborhood, necessitating a more robust security framework.

Key Changes in Security Structures Post-1998

• National Security Council (NSC) Formation: In 1999, India established the National Security Council, chaired by the Prime Minister, to address strategic and security issues. This included the creation of a Strategic Policy Group and the post of National Security Advisor (NSA).
• National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS): The NSCS was established to support the NSC’s functions, with the NSA advising the Prime Minister on foreign policy, defense, atomic energy, and space issues.
• Role of NSA in Crisis: The NSA serves as the quickest and most effective channel to reach foreign governments during crises, highlighting its central role in foreign policy and security matters.

Developments in the NSCS

• Growth of the NSCS: Since 2018, the NSCS has expanded to include four Deputy NSA officials, each handling different areas of foreign and security issues. Recently, an Additional NSA has also been appointed.
• Coordination Challenges: The NSCS is tasked with coordinating strategic and security work, but this has led to “turf” issues, which could hinder effective decision-making.

Conclusion – Turf Issues

• Surprises in Policy Failures: Despite the extensive structures in place, India’s foreign policy apparatus was unprepared for the rapid changes in Afghanistan, Maldives, and Bangladesh.
• Critical Questions: The situation raises important questions—are the setbacks due to “turf” issues within the policy-making structures, or were they the result of misjudgments by key officials? Understanding the root cause is essential for improving India’s foreign and security policies moving forward.