Understanding National Security in the Modern Context
The 21st century has ushered a transformation in the global arena, with its new threats, challenges and complexities, which require a paradigm shift in understanding the national security calculus.
It has been stated as the century of the mind and transformation. The traditional notions of war and peace, national power, and deterrence have blurred. Thus, necessitating a comprehensive and adaptive approach to safeguarding a nation’s interest[1]. The weaponisation of all instruments of national power and society has added fragility to the security paradigm.
In the complex landscape of the 21st century, the definition of national security has evolved beyond traditional boundaries. As societies become more interconnected, threats transcend borders and manifest in diverse domains, national security is not merely about military strength but involves a comprehensive understanding of economic stability, cyber security, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion.
The threats emanating from scarce resources and non-traditional aspects like water, energy, health, education, environment and technology to a nation add another dimension. National Security is an inclusive concept wherein security and defence are not interchangeable.
Security incorporates defence and collectively they coexist and stand for national security. It thus encompasses political maturity, soft and hard power, focused and equitable development and growth of human and material resources, and public understanding and support.
Economic resilience, technological prowess, political stability along with diplomatic skill, and soft power qualities are now all components of national strength, in addition to military prowess. The significance of cyberspace and cognitive space as a realm of power has increased in the digital age.
Furthermore, a country’s position in the world now depends heavily on its capacity to promote education, harness innovation, and convey cultural influence. In the modern era, national power is made up of the following essential elements.
A Military Power: The major source of national power continues to be conventional military might. This covers a country’s threats, force projection capabilities, technological developments in defense systems, and the number and strength of its armed forces.
B Economic Power: One of the main pillars of national power is economic strength. The resources required for social programs, infrastructural development, and military capabilities are provided by a strong economy. GDP, PCI, industrial capacity, innovation, and economic diversification are important metrics.
C Technological Power: As a result of globalization and the technological boom, a new word known as “Geo-technologies” has surfaced and is being used as a weapon for power struggles and strategic competitiveness. Technology, which propels economic, political, diplomatic, and military power, is at the heart of this struggle.
Technological ability is a crucial component of national strength in the twenty-first century. A strategic advantage is gained by countries that take the lead in innovation, R&D, and the use of cutting-edge technologies. Fiscal support for technology R&D and supplementary human resource development, which are still below par, continue to be the principal obstacles.
[1]Defence Research and Studies, “Refund and Cancellation Policy”, (n.d.), available at: https://dras.in/refund-and-cancellation-policy/ (last accessed on 9 Apr. 2025).