Effective Deterrence: Thoughts on India's Security Policy and Structures in the Twenty-first Century

Basic causes of war are imbedded in the very nature of modern Nation-State. Type of state apparatus, be it democratic or otherwise is no guarantee for `peace'. This is a Realist Paradigm. While many have claimed, and continue to do so, that establishment of universal democracy would lead to dawn of `Peaceful Haven' on Earth. This hypothesis does not withstand close scrutiny.

Wars, in the Indian context can take place for any of the three fundamental causes of war. Firstly, the country has territorial disputes which in the past have led to bloody conflicts. Secondly, we are also subjected to `religion driven proxy war' on daily basis. Thirdly, being the largest country in South Asia we also have the responsibility for stablising the region.

India aspires to be a major power in the world of tomorrow. India's strategic boundaries include Littoral Countries of Indian Ocean and Central Asian Region. Post Tsunami 2004, Indian outreach to South and South East Asia was but one attempt to define it's strategic frontiers. As part of its search for greater role in the world affairs India has also been pushing for a permanent seat in an expanded UN Security Council. These aspirations to be a major world power can only succeed if backed up by strong armed forces guided by an efficient defence management apparatus.

The book proposes a modern efficient and transparent system of defence management which is in step with the democratic ethos of the Nation.