New Delhi - In response to China's increasing adoption of 'Grey Zone Warfare' (GZW), the Indian security establishment has launched a significant initiative to coordinate multiple agencies effectively. The Grey Zone Warfare concept refers to competitive interactions that fall between traditional war and peace, involving both state and non-state actors, as defined by the United States Special Operations Command.
According to reliable sources within the Indian security establishment, the ongoing exercise involves sharing an elaborate multi-page note on Grey Zone Warfare with over 10 agencies, including intelligence, military, and the Central Armed Police Forces. The aim is to foster collaboration and brainstorm effective strategies to counter these unconventional tactics.
Although details of the exercise's outcomes remain undisclosed, insiders have acknowledged its importance in addressing the growing challenges posed by China's application of Grey Zone Warfare. Notable instances cited in the note include China's actions in the South China Sea, the development of border defense villages along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), and Chinese investments in the media sector. These same tactics were also observed during the Doklam standoff.
The paper specifically identifies China's extensive use of Grey Zone Warfare against India and its friendly neighbors. One major area where China has applied GZW is through the establishment of over 600 border defense villages. Initiated after the 19th Communist Party Congress in October 2017, these villages serve as buffers and have multiple purposes, including facilitating movement along the borders, surveilling opposing forces, and reinforcing territorial claims. China has invested significantly in developing infrastructure, such as roads, habitation, power, and other amenities in these villages, aiming to match or surpass the capabilities of India's border regions.
Additionally, the note highlights Chinese investment in "news aggregation and applications" within India, signaling the country's interest in influencing media narratives.
The Indian security establishment's efforts to pool ideas and expertise from various agencies represent a crucial step in confronting the challenges presented by Grey Zone Warfare. By fostering cooperation and coordination among intelligence, military, and law enforcement agencies, India aims to bolster its resilience and readiness in the face of this emerging security threat.