RAW: History, Operations and Role of Indian Intelligence Service

RAW , or the Research and Analysis Wing, is India’s principal intelligence service responsible for intelligence gathering abroad and safeguarding national security. Since its inception in 1968, RAW has played a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s interests and the stability of the South Asian region. In this article, we will explore the history, structure, and major operations of RAW, an agency that has significantly influenced the geopolitics of Asia.

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Table of Contents

 

History of RAW

The Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) was established in 1968 in response to the growing security threats facing India at the time. Following the 1962 conflict with China and the 1965 war with Pakistan, the Indian government saw the need to create an intelligence service specialising in the analysis of foreign threats. RAW was thus established as an autonomous agency, separate from the domestic intelligence services, and began to operate under the supervision of the Prime Minister.

Since its inception, RAW has played a crucial role in intelligence gathering and defending national interests. Its initial mission was to focus on Pakistan and China, the two countries with which India has had tense relations for decades. Over time, RAW expanded its focus to other regions in Asia and the world, establishing itself as one of the most important intelligence agencies in the region. Its operations and achievements have been key to India’s stability and influence in the global geopolitical arena.

 

RAW structure and functions

The RAW structure is organized into distinct divisions, each specializing in specific areas of intelligence and security. RAW acts autonomously and directly under the Prime Minister of India, which gives it a high degree of flexibility in the execution of its missions. Below we describe some of the main functions of this agency:

Foreign Intelligence Division

The Foreign Intelligence Division is engaged in intelligence gathering outside India, primarily in neighbouring countries and strategic regions. This division is tasked with anticipating potential threats to national security and collecting data on political, military and economic activities that may affect India. The Foreign Intelligence Division has officers deployed in various countries and maintains a network of informants who contribute to its surveillance and espionage operations.

Counterintelligence Division

The Counter Intelligence Division works to identify and neutralize any foreign espionage threats directed against India. This division monitors the activities of suspicious foreign individuals and organizations and works closely with other Indian security agencies to protect the integrity of national data. Counter intelligence is critical to RAW as it enables it to prevent potential infiltrations and ensure the protection of sensitive information.

Strategic Analysis Division

The Strategic Analysis Division is responsible for studying and analysing information gathered by field officers. Its analysts transform the data into intelligence reports that are presented to the top brass of the Indian government. These analyses help make strategic decisions in foreign policy and defence, enabling India to respond to threats and conflicts in an informed and timely manner. This division is key to RAW's success in its international missions.

 

RAW's most notable operations

Throughout its history, RAW has carried out numerous covert operations in Asia and other parts of the world. These missions have been instrumental in protecting India's interests and in addressing challenges in the region. Here are some of the key missions: Some of the most important operations in which RAW has played a decisive role are highlighted:

Operation Meghdoot

Operation Meghdoot was a high-risk mission conducted in 1984 in the Siachen region, a mountainous area disputed between India and Pakistan. RAW obtained key information about Pakistani military movements and through this intelligence, the Indian armed forces were able to strategically occupy key points in the Siachen Glacier before Pakistan could take control of the area. This operation was a resounding success for RAW and enabled India to secure control of this strategic region.

Operation Cactus

Another of RAW's notable missions was Operation Cactus , carried out in 1988 in the Maldives. A group of mercenaries attempted a coup in the island nation, but thanks to RAW's swift intervention, the legitimate government was re-established. RAW worked closely with Indian special forces to coordinate a rescue operation that was widely praised internationally, consolidating India's influence in South Asia.

Counterterrorism and surveillance in Kashmir

RAW has played a significant role in surveillance and counterterrorism in Kashmir, a disputed region between India and Pakistan. The agency has worked to dismantle terrorist networks and has collaborated with security forces in monitoring extremist activities. Thanks to its network of informants and operatives, RAW has managed to thwart several attacks in the region, contributing to the stability and security of Kashmir and protecting the local population.

 

RAW's influence on regional and global security

RAW is one of the most influential intelligence agencies in Asia and plays a crucial role in regional security. Its work in intelligence gathering and monitoring foreign threats has enabled India to establish itself as a regional power. RAW collaborates with other international agencies on terrorism and espionage issues, contributing to stability in Asia and working to address common threats in the region.

Moreover, RAW’s ability to operate on multiple fronts, from espionage to strategic analysis, strengthens its position in the global arena. The agency has developed a vast intelligence network across Asia, Europe and other strategic regions, enabling it to respond quickly to any changes in the geopolitical context. Its influence on international security is undeniable and is expected to continue to grow as India increases its presence in the global arena.

 

Conclusions

RAW is India's premier foreign intelligence service and a key player in the security of Asia and South Asia. With a specialised structure and intelligence functions ranging from espionage to strategic analysis, RAW has proven to be an effective agency in protecting India's interests and in ensuring stability in the region.

Through its operations, RAW has been able to anticipate threats and influence key events in South Asia. RAW’s collaboration with other international intelligence agencies and its commitment to national security reinforce its importance in global geopolitics. With a focus on espionage and counterterrorism, RAW continues to be a key player in India’s defence and the protection of its citizens.