Did you know India experienced over 1.5 million cyberattacks in 2022 alone? That number illustrates why organizations such as the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) are crucial to protect our physical and digital universes.
Alok Joshi, a seasoned leader, has rejuvenated the NSAB. Coming from an intelligence background, he brings deep expertise to beat threats before they happen—especially amid rising global tensions.
Key Takeaways
- NSAB is the Prime Minister’s main defense strategy think tank
- Coordinates between civilian agencies and the military
- Alok Joshi emphasizes tech-enabled security
- Reforms now address 21st-century hybrid warfare
- Directly advises on crisis response and intelligence sharing
1. NSAB: Core Mandate & Strategic Role
The National Security Advisory Board lies at the center of India’s national defense strategy. It balances today’s risks with future goals and leads policy changes in response to evolving warfare tactics.
1.1 Defining India’s Security Priorities
NSAB works via two channels—policymaking and risk monitoring—to develop workable defense strategies.
1.1.1 Policy Formulation Framework
- Scanning for emerging threats
- Cross-ministerial consultations
- Strategic scenario planning
- Action plan implementation
1.1.2 Threat Assessment Protocols
The NSAB uses a color-coded threat scale:
- Red: Critical threats
- Amber: Financial or cyber threats
- Green: Long-term risks
2. Historical Development of NSAB
Initially focused on nuclear defense post-Pokhran-II, NSAB evolved to tackle hybrid threats and digital warfare.
2.1 Founding Principles
- Formulate nuclear doctrine
- Strategic weapon deployment
- Promote regional balance
2.2 Structural Milestones
- 2008: Counter-terror wing established
- 2014: Cyber warfare cell created
- 2020: Space security division added
3. Alok Joshi’s Leadership
Former RAW Chief Alok Joshi’s leadership marks a new era for NSAB, focusing on tech and tactical modernization.
3.1 Profile: RAW Chief to NSAB Chairman
- 37 years in intelligence
- Led counterterror ops as RAW Secretary (2012–14)
- Strengthened cyber counterintelligence in 14 states
3.2 Strategic Priorities Under Joshi
3.2.1 Technology Modernization
- AI-based threat detection
- Satellite imagery analysis
- Dark web surveillance
3.2.2 Regional Security Alliances
- Intelligence cooperation with Quad
- Cybersecurity initiatives with BIMSTEC
- Indo-Pacific maritime monitoring
4. Operational Structure
NSAB connects 15+ entities through a hub-like structure, enabling rapid, informed national responses.
4.1 Interagency Collaboration
- RAW & IB briefings
- Simulation drills each quarter
- Real-time coordination with NTRO and armed forces
4.2 Crisis Response Protocols
4.2.1 Decision-Making Hierarchy
- Field agent threat verification
- Cabinet Committee emergency meetings
- Rapid command approval chain
4.2.2 Rapid Deployment
- Prepped military units
- Secure national communication systems
- Automated alerts for state police
5. Contemporary Expertise
NSAB includes 22 members—technocrats, strategists, and diplomats—to provide comprehensive threat analysis.
5.1 Members’ Profile
- Military: 40%, including Lt. Gen SL Narasimhan
- Cybersecurity: Blockchain and 5G defense experts
- Diplomats: Align foreign policy with security goals
6. Contemporary Threats and Reforms
6.1 Emerging Hybrid Threats
- Drone swarm attacks on power grids
- Cyberattacks on ports
- Weak threat sharing among agencies
6.2 Infrastructure Protections
6.2.1 Grid & Energy
- Blockchain-based grid defenses
- EMP-proof control centers
6.2.2 Transportation Security
- Rail AI and biometrics
- Encrypted port logistics
7. Reform Phases & Implementation
- Phase 1: Threat mapping via DRDO & NTRO
- Phase 2: Improved interagency drills
- Phase 3: Legal updates to Official Secrets Act
- Phase 4: Tech upgrades—cloud and AI
- Phase 5: Real-time dashboard monitoring and audits
FAQs
1. What is the role of the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB)?
The National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) serves as India’s premier strategic advisory body on defense and national security matters. It formulates long-term security policies, assesses emerging threats, and provides expert advice to the National Security Council, working closely with intelligence and defense agencies.
2. How have recent terror attacks influenced NSAB’s structure and priorities?
Following the rise in hybrid attacks such as drone strikes and cyber intrusions between 2020 and 2023, the NSAB underwent structural reforms. New task forces, enhanced cyber units, and joint intelligence protocols were established to improve readiness and response.
3. Why was Alok Joshi appointed as Chairman of the NSAB?
Alok Joshi, a former RAW chief with extensive counterintelligence experience, was appointed to strengthen NSAB’s operational focus. His leadership brings an emphasis on AI-driven threat detection and deeper engagement with regional defense alliances like the Quad and BIMSTEC.
4. What technological upgrades has the NSAB implemented recently?
The NSAB has adopted AI-based surveillance, blockchain-secured systems for critical infrastructure, and quantum encryption for intelligence sharing. These upgrades enhance threat anticipation and cybersecurity across defense sectors.
5. How does the NSAB coordinate national crisis responses?
The NSAB operates a rapid-response structure that includes real-time data sharing with RAW, IB, and the armed forces. It also conducts quarterly simulation drills and can authorize emergency actions through the Cabinet Committee on Security.
6. What type of expertise is represented within the current NSAB membership?
The NSAB comprises 22 members, including retired military commanders, cybersecurity experts, nuclear scientists, and diplomatic strategists. This multi-disciplinary team ensures that all aspects of India’s security landscape are addressed comprehensively.
7. How have infrastructure vulnerabilities shaped recent NSAB reforms?
Security breaches, such as the 2022 Mumbai port cyberattack, exposed weaknesses in India’s critical infrastructure. In response, the NSAB implemented encryption protocols, EMP protection, blockchain-based energy grid monitoring, and biometric security for transport hubs.
8. What legal changes have enhanced NSAB’s operational authority?
Recent amendments to national security and cybersecurity laws have expanded NSAB’s powers. These include direct reporting rights to the Prime Minister during crises and authority to lead inter-agency task forces for threat mitigation.
