Indian Intelligence Agency – Raw: Origin, Functions, Roles & Responsibilities, Latest News & Top 10 Key Facts

Introduction

Recently, many articles around geopolitics were inclined to the working of raw & term used as ‘Unidentified-Man’. Those who knew about Unidentified-Man, were cheering and lauding RAW [Indian Intelligence Agency] high. Still, in India, there are a very large number of people exists who don’t have any Idea about RAW.

If you are one of them or just want to get more information about RAW, then this blog is for you. In this blog, we have added all the information about RAW. Highlighted information can be seen from table of the contents.

So, let’s start-

What is Research and Analysis Wing (RAW)? – RAW UPSC

The Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) is the primary foreign/External intelligence agency of India, responsible for gathering external intelligence, conducting counter-terrorism operations, and promoting the country’s strategic interests abroad.

Established in 1968, RAW operates under the jurisdiction of the Prime Minister’s Office and reports directly to the Prime Minister of India.

The agency’s main objectives include assessing foreign threats, providing strategic intelligence to policymakers, and conducting covert operations to safeguard national security.

RAW plays a crucial role in ensuring India’s geopolitical interests and responding to challenges posed by regional and global adversaries.

Aspirants preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination may encounter questions related to Research and Analysis Wing as part of the general studies and current affairs sections.

Understanding the agency’s history, functions, and significance is essential for a comprehensive grasp of India’s intelligence landscape.

Origin of Research and Analysis Wing – History of RAW  – Inception of RAW

The Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) was established on September 21, 1968, in response to the evolving geopolitical challenges faced by India.

Its inception was a strategic move to strengthen the country’s intelligence capabilities, especially in the realm of external affairs and national security.

The idea to create RAW gained prominence after the Indo-China war in 1962 and the Indo-Pak war in 1965, which highlighted the need for a dedicated foreign intelligence agency.

The founding father of RAW is believed to be Rameshwar Nath Kao, a seasoned intelligence officer and then the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB). Kao played a pivotal role in shaping the organizational structure and functions of RAW.

The agency was officially created through a government resolution, and its mandate included gathering intelligence from foreign countries, conducting covert operations, and safeguarding India’s interests on the global stage.

Over the years, RAW has played a crucial role in addressing various external threats and contributing to India’s national security apparatus. Understanding the history of RAW’s inception provides insights into the geopolitical context that led to the establishment of this vital intelligence agency.

Power of Research and Analysis Wing

We have never seen raw using their powers because of the secrecy of their operations. However, they have been provided and uphelded with many kinds of power. We have enlisted some major powers of RAW below-

1. Covert Operations

RAW possesses the authority to conduct covert operations both within and outside India’s borders to gather critical intelligence and ensure national security.

2. Intelligence Gathering

The agency has the power to collect foreign intelligence, focusing on political, military, economic, and strategic aspects to keep the Indian government informed.

3. Counter-Terrorism Operations

RAW is empowered to engage in counter-terrorism activities, aiming to neutralize threats and prevent acts of terrorism against India and its interests.

4. Strategic Analysis

The agency conducts in-depth strategic analysis, providing the government with insights into global geopolitical developments and their potential impact on India.

5. Counterintelligence

RAW is tasked with countering foreign intelligence operations that may pose a threat to India’s security, ensuring the protection of sensitive information.

6. Securing National Interests

The agency works actively to safeguard India’s national interests by monitoring developments in neighboring countries and addressing potential challenges.

7. Cyber Intelligence

In the modern era, RAW has adapted to the digital landscape, possessing the capability to gather intelligence through cyber means and defend against cyber threats.

8. Undercover Operations

RAW has the authority to conduct undercover operations, using agents and assets to gather information and carry out tasks discreetly.

9. Foreign Liaison

The agency collaborates with intelligence agencies of friendly nations, fostering international cooperation and enhancing India’s intelligence capabilities.

10. Specialized Training

RAW is equipped with the power to provide specialized training to its personnel, ensuring a skilled workforce capable of handling diverse intelligence challenges effectively.

Functions of Research and Analysis Wing – RAW Roles & Responsibilities

The Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) functions as the primary foreign intelligence agency of India, engaging in a variety of activities to safeguard the country’s national interests. Here are the key functions of RAW:

1. Foreign Intelligence Gathering

RAW is tasked with collecting intelligence from foreign countries, focusing on political, economic, military, and strategic developments that may impact India.

2. Counterintelligence

The agency conducts counterintelligence operations to detect and thwart espionage activities by foreign agencies targeting India’s national security.

3. Counter-Terrorism Operations

RAW engages in counter-terrorism efforts, working to identify and neutralize threats posed by terrorist organizations operating both within and outside the country.

4. Strategic Analysis

RAW provides strategic analysis and assessments to policymakers, offering insights into global geopolitical trends and their implications for India.

5. Covert Operations

The agency has the capability to carry out covert operations to gather intelligence and address specific national security concerns discreetly.

6. Monitoring Neighboring Countries

RAW monitors developments in neighboring countries to anticipate potential challenges and threats, contributing to India’s proactive foreign policy.

7. Supporting Diplomacy

RAW supports India’s diplomatic efforts by providing intelligence that aids in formulating informed foreign policies and positions.

8. Securing Economic Interests

The agency works to safeguard India’s economic interests by monitoring economic developments globally and identifying opportunities and challenges.

9. Counterproliferation Efforts

RAW is involved in efforts to counter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and monitor activities related to nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons.

10. Technical Intelligence Collection

The agency engages in technical intelligence collection, utilizing advanced technologies to gather information on communications, cybersecurity, and other technological aspects.

How to become RAW officer? – How to Join RAW?

Becoming a Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) officer is a challenging and secretive process, as RAW primarily recruits candidates from within existing government services. Here are general steps that individuals can take to potentially become a RAW officer:

1. Educational Qualifications

Obtain a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Many RAW officers have backgrounds in fields like international relations, political science, or military studies.

2. Civil Services Exam

The most common route is through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination. Candidates need to qualify for the Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Administrative Service (IAS), or other allied services.

3. Specialized Training

After selection into the civil services, officers may undergo specialized training relevant to intelligence and security matters. This could include training programs conducted by intelligence agencies or defense academies.

4. Service Allocation

During the service allocation process after clearing the UPSC exam, candidates may express a preference for the police or foreign service, which are closely associated with intelligence work.

5. Service Tenure

Work diligently and gain experience in the chosen service. Officers with exemplary records and specialized skills may be considered for deputation to RAW.

6. Deputation to RAW

RAW often recruits officers through deputation from various civil services, including police, military, and administrative services. Selected officers undergo additional training specific to intelligence operations.

7. Confidentiality Agreements

RAW officers are bound by strict confidentiality agreements. Individuals seeking to join RAW must demonstrate a commitment to discretion and the ability to handle classified information.

8. Networking and Specialization

Developing expertise in areas such as international relations, languages, or security studies can enhance the chances of being considered for RAW. Networking with senior officials and having a clean service record is crucial.

9. In-Service Recommendations

Recommendations from within the government services and positive evaluations from superiors can play a significant role in being considered for RAW.

10. Continuous Learning

Stay informed about global affairs, security issues, and intelligence methodologies. Continuous learning and adaptability are essential qualities for a RAW officer.

Key Facts about Research and Analysis Wing – Top 10 Facts about RAW

We have enlisted some Interesting Facts about Research and Analysis Wing here. Top 10 Facts about RAW are below-

Research And Analysis Wing Motto

The Motto of RAW – Research & Analysis Wing is ‘DHARMO RAKSHATHI RAKSHITHA’ – ‘धर्मो रक्षति रक्षितः’ इसका अर्थ यह है कि, ‘जब आप धर्म की रक्षा करेंगे, तभी धर्म आपकी रक्षा करेगा।’ और यहाँ धर्म का अर्थ कोई मजहब या पन्त नहीं है बल्कि ‘righteousness’ है, अर्थात धार्मिक कर्तव्य या आचरण। यानि कि धर्म को किसी के श्रेष्ठ कर्तव्य या आचरण के रूप में समझा जाता है। इसमें नैतिक समझ और नैतिक जिम्मेदारियाँ शामिल हैं जो व्यक्तियों को जीवन में उनकी विभिन्न भूमिकाओं में होती हैं, जैसे कि एक छात्र, एक माता-पिता, एक शासक या एक कर्मचारी।

Research And Analysis Wing in Hindi

रिसर्च एंड एनालिसिस विंग (रॉ) भारत की प्राथमिक विदेशी/बाहरी खुफिया एजेंसी है, जो बाहरी खुफिया जानकारी इकट्ठा करने, आतंकवाद विरोधी अभियान चलाने और विदेशों में देश के रणनीतिक हितों को बढ़ावा देने के लिए जिम्मेदार है।

1968 में स्थापित, रॉ प्रधान मंत्री कार्यालय के अधिकार क्षेत्र में काम करता है और सीधे भारत के प्रधान मंत्री को रिपोर्ट करता है।

एजेंसी के मुख्य उद्देश्यों में विदेशी खतरों का आकलन करना, नीति निर्माताओं को रणनीतिक खुफिया जानकारी प्रदान करना और राष्ट्रीय सुरक्षा की रक्षा के लिए गुप्त अभियान चलाना शामिल है।

रॉ भारत के भू-राजनीतिक हितों को सुनिश्चित करने और क्षेत्रीय और वैश्विक विरोधियों द्वारा उत्पन्न चुनौतियों का जवाब देने में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाता है।

Research And Analysis Wing Logo

This is the Logo of Research and Analysis Wing:

FAQs on RAW – RAW UPSC Questions