Syllabus: GS3/Security
Context
- Recently, the Union Defence Minister emphasized that India’s fight against terrorism is now part of its National Defence Doctrine, reinforcing its commitment to eliminating hybrid and proxy threats.
Understanding Hybrid Warfare
- It is designed to destabilize adversaries without direct military confrontation. It involves a mix of kinetic (traditional military operations) and non-kinetic (extends beyond usual military operations) tactics, including:
- Cyber warfare: Attacks on critical infrastructure, financial systems, and government networks.
- Disinformation campaigns: Manipulating public perception through fake news and propaganda.
- Economic coercion: Trade restrictions, sanctions, and financial manipulation.
- Proxy conflicts: Supporting insurgent groups or non-state actors to destabilize adversaries.
- The Russia-Ukraine conflict is a prime example, where cyberattacks, drone warfare, and economic sanctions have played a crucial role.
Understanding Proxy Warfare: Indirect Conflict Through Third Parties
- Proxy warfare involves state or non-state actors supporting armed groups or insurgencies to achieve strategic objectives without direct involvement.
- India has consistently faced cross-border terrorism, with Pakistan-backed groups engaging in proxy conflicts.
- Pakistan’s Proxy War Against India:
- Cross-Border Terrorism targeting Indian security forces and civilians.
- Drug and Weapon Smuggling into Punjab, aiming to create internal disturbances.
India’s Response to Hybrid & Proxy Warfare
| Key Insights on India’s Hybrid Warfare Strategy | ||
| Aspect | Current Threats | Preparedness Measures |
| Cyber Warfare | State-sponsored attacks (e.g., Chinese malware, Pegasus) | CERT-In, Defence Cyber Agency, Cyber Security Policy |
| Information Warfare | Fake news, disinfo campaigns, deep fakes | PIB fact-check unit, Draft Digital India Bill (2023) |
| Terrorism / Proxy Warfare | Cross-border terrorism, insurgent funding | NIA, UAPA strengthening, FATF compliance |
| Military Doctrine | Gray zone ops, maritime salami slicing | Theatre commands, tri-service exercises, DSA |
| Legal/Institutional Gaps | No unified hybrid warfare law or body | Need for national hybrid warfare policy |
- Strengthening Cyber Defenses: Enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure to prevent cyber espionage and attacks.
- Military Modernization: Investing and Strengthening cyber defenses, AI-based warfare, electromagnetic warfare, and space-based security.
- Institutional Reforms: Like Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) and Military Theaterisation etc.
- Intelligence Agencies: Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO).
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with global allies to counter misinformation and economic coercion.
- Example: Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)
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