Despite national security having emerged as a major political issue in the last few general elections, India has failed to yet formulate a National Security Strategy (NSS). The recent remark by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan that “such a document actually doesn’t count” has triggered a fresh debate about the desirability and importance of a NSS document. General Chauhan said that the absence of a written national strategic policy does not imply that the country lacks a strategic policy.

In his opinion, a NSS consists of policy, processes, and practices to succeed, and India addresses all three effectively. He argued that in the absence of a strategic policy, the country would not have been successful in revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, or carrying out Uri and Balakot strikes. General Chauhan’s remarks may be partly correct, but that cannot be a substitute for a more formal approach to national security, which is always preferred in most democratic countries without exception.

The advantages of a written and robust NSS providing a clear strategic direction cannot be simply brushed aside. A NSS is a foundational document that delineates the countries’ broader security goals based on an objective assessment of present security threats and future challenges. It spells out clear strategic direction and implementation plans; and identifies and synergises military, economic, diplomatic, and other resources needed to achieve the defined goals in a coordinated manner within the constitutional and legal framework, based on a broader political consensus.

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A NSS also provides institutional mechanisms for regular review and updating of national security policy. It provides an opportunity for consultation with all stakeholders and experts. The NSS generally takes a comprehensive approach to the notion of security, encompassing domestic and external challenges and addressing both traditional military threats and non-traditional security challenges. It always emphasises harmonising the efforts and pooling the resources of different........

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