National Security
Indian statecraft has historically viewed security not only as military strength, but as the protection of dharma, order and stability. Ancient texts such as the Arthashastra, Mahabharata, Ramayana and Rig Veda present a sophisticated understanding of strategy, ethics, diplomacy and resilience.
In today’s complex security environment that is shaped by geopolitical and geoeconomics realignment, technological disruption and internal vulnerabilities, there is a need to draw from this civilisational heritage to build a secure, resilient and self-reliant Bharat. Bharat Ki Soch envisions national security rooted in strength, wisdom, ethical governance and strategic autonomy, informed by timeless principles and adapted to contemporary realities.
Objectives
Interpret India’s Strategic and Civilisational Ethos for Modern Security
Study principles of ancient statecraft, strategy, diplomacy and internal order from the Arthashastra, Niti Shastra, Shanti Parva, Rig Veda and epics.
Examine how harmony, strength rooted in wisdom and a righteous sense of purpose addressed security challenges and shaped enduring models of national resilience.
Examine the interplay of moral order, justice and power in ensuring power serves justice not domination.
Derive Strategic Frameworks from the Ancient Principles of Statecraft for Strengthening National Security
Examine ancient approaches to intelligence, alliances, negotiation, deterrence and conflict management.
Analyse Chanakya’s integration of strength and strategy, along with warrior traditions for strategic thinking.
Study traditional frameworks such as Matsya Nyay, Sam Dam Dand Bhed etc. to understand their principles and strategic rationale.
Build a Comprehensive and Multi-dimensional View of National Security
Study the interconnected dimensions of security — defence readiness, diplomacy, internal stability, economic sovereignty, technological capability and information integrity.
Explore how India’s civilizational worldview emphasised security through balance, restraint and wisdom rather than aggression.
Dimensions of Research
a. Study ancient treatises on war, peace, intelligence and governance — Arthashastra, Niti Shastra, Shanti Parva, and Rig Veda for enduring strategic principles.
b. Analyse classical frameworks of statecraft (Sam Dam Dand Bhed, Matsya Nyay etc) for actionable frameworks in modern defence, border management and geopolitical strategy.
c. Examine ancient models of societal cohesion, unity and internal order to inform contemporary approaches to social stability and resilience.
d. Study integrated perspectives on national power, including economy, technology, food security, environment and information systems, as part of a holistic security framework.
e. Analyse India’s historic approach to strategic autonomy and global harmony to derive principles for present-day diplomacy and foreign policy.