Day 52 – Q. 5. What is hybrid warfare? Discuss the emerging threats it poses to India’s national security and suggest measures to strengthen India’s preparedness against such challenges. (250 words, 15 marks)

Q. 5. What is hybrid warfare? Discuss the emerging threats it poses to India’s national security and suggest measures to strengthen India’s preparedness against such challenges. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction 

Hybrid warfare refers to a blend of conventional warfare, irregular tactics, cyber operations,  disinformation campaigns, and economic coercion. It exploits a nation’s vulnerabilities across  multiple domains, posing new-age threats to India’s national security. 

Body

Emerging Hybrid Warfare Threats to India 

1. Cyber Attacks on Critical Infrastructure: Attacks have targeted power grids and health  systems. Example: Malware attack on Maharashtra’s grid (2020); AIIMS cyber breach (2022).
2. Disinformation & Influence Operations: Social media used to polarize and spread fake  narratives. Example: Disinformation during Delhi riots (2020); Manipur unrest (2023).
3. Terrorism and Insurgency with Cross-Border Support: Drones used to smuggle arms and aid terror groups. Example: Drone arms drops in Punjab (2022); Reasi attack on pilgrims  (2024). 
4. Economic and Trade-Based Pressure: Disrupting supply chains to create dependence. Example: API supply shocks during COVID; EV disruptions due to lithium issues (2024).
5. Maritime and Grey-Zone Tactics: Civilian vessels used for surveillance in Indian waters. Example: Chinese ships near Andamans (2022). 

Measures to Strengthen India’s Preparedness 

1. Integrated Cyber Defence Framework: Strengthen CERT-In, military-civilian coordination,  and real-time threat sharing. 
2. Strategic Communication Units: Establish agencies to counter disinformation and fake  news. 
3. Modernization of Armed Forces with Jointness: Roll out Theatre Commands and invest  in AI, drones, EW. 
4. Public Awareness and Digital Literacy: Educate citizens on digital hygiene and  misinformation. 
5. Multi-Domain Task Forces: Civil-military teams for hybrid threat response.
6. Enhanced Maritime Surveillance: Expand radar networks and ship tracking capabilities. 

Steps Already Taken by India 

1. Creation of Defence Cyber Agency: Protects military assets from cyber threats.
2. Banning of Hostile-Origin Apps: Chinese-origin apps banned over data and influence risks.
3. New IT Rules and Fact-Check Units: Counter misinformation online.
4. Induction of Advanced Technologies: Use of AI and drones on sensitive borders. 

Way Forward 

1. Formulate a National Hybrid Warfare Strategy: Define roles for civil, military, and  intelligence agencies. 
2. Strengthen Global Partnerships: Collaborate with like-minded countries on cyber norms  and maritime security. 
3. Capacity Building and Red-Teaming: Regular drills simulating hybrid attacks across  sectors.

Conclusion

Hybrid warfare demands proactive defence. India must adopt a whole-of-nation approach— blending technology, coordination, and foresight—to protect its sovereignty and democratic  institutions from emerging multi-domain threats.