Why in news?
The government announced a reorganisation of the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) in September 2025, appointing an Additional National Security Adviser to improve policy coordination. The move highlights the growing complexity of security challenges, from cyber attacks to regional conflicts.
Origins and structure
India’s National Security Council (NSC) was created in 1998 to advise the Prime Minister on national security and foreign policy. It functions through a three‑tiered system:
- Strategic Policy Group (SPG): Chaired by the National Security Adviser (NSA), the SPG includes senior ministers, service chiefs and secretaries of key departments. It coordinates long‑term policy.
- National Security Advisory Board (NSAB): Comprising retired officials, academics and experts, the NSAB provides independent analysis and recommendations.
- National Security Council Secretariat: The NSCS is the executive arm that prepares background papers, monitors implementation and liaises with ministries. It has divisions focused on strategic planning, internal security, intelligence, technology and military affairs.
Recent developments
Recognising the heavy workload of the NSA, the government created an Additional NSA post in July 2024 to handle operational coordination, freeing the NSA to focus on strategic issues. The NSCS also oversees the National Cyber Coordination Centre and works closely with agencies such as the Defence Intelligence Agency and the Research and Analysis Wing. In 2025 the Secretariat began integrating artificial intelligence tools for intelligence fusion and early‑warning systems. It is also working to improve inter‑agency collaboration to respond quickly to emerging threats.
Challenges and outlook
India’s security landscape includes border disputes, terrorism, cyber warfare, espionage and maritime competition. The NSCS must balance secrecy with transparency and civil‑military coordination. Strengthening cyber defences, modernising intelligence gathering and promoting cooperation among the armed forces and police will be vital. Public trust will depend on the council’s ability to anticipate threats while upholding democratic values.
