The History of RAW: India’s Secret Intelligence Agency

History of RAW: India’s Secret Intelligence Agency

India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) is one of the most mysterious yet powerful intelligence agencies in Asia. Since its birth in 1968, RAW has played a critical role in safeguarding India’s security, conducting covert operations, and monitoring geopolitical threats. From the days of the Cold War to today’s age of cyber warfare, RAW has been central to India’s defence strategy.

Provides context and highlights the key themes of the agency directly.

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The Birth of RAW

The creation of RAW in 1968 was not accidental — it was born out of India’s military shortcomings and intelligence failures in the 1960s. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the visionary intelligence officer R.N. Kao spearheaded the move to separate external intelligence from the Intelligence Bureau (IB).

Before we look at its global role, let’s understand why RAW was formed.

• Failure of intelligence during the 1962 Sino-Indian War

• Poor assessment of Pakistan’s strategies in the 1965 Indo-Pak War

• Urgent need for a dedicated external intelligence agency

Separation from the Intelligence Bureau

Until 1968, the IB was responsible for both internal and external intelligence. However, overburdening and repeated lapses proved costly. This led to the decision to carve out RAW as a specialized body focusing only on foreign threats.

The Role of R.N. Kao

Known as the “spymaster of India,” Rameshwar Nath Kao was the first chief of RAW. His foresight and global contacts laid the foundation for RAW as a professional and secretive agency.

RAW During the Cold War Era

The 1970s and 80s were defining decades for RAW, as India faced threats from both Pakistan and China. RAW also had to navigate the complex geopolitics of the Cold War, often caught between the US and the Soviet Union.

To understand this phase, two important aspects stand out:

• RAW’s covert role in liberating Bangladesh in 1971

• Its vigilance on Pakistan’s nuclear ambitions during the Cold War

Bangladesh Liberation War (1971)

RAW played a decisive role in India’s victory in the Indo-Pak War of 1971. It trained and armed the Mukti Bahini fighters in East Pakistan, providing crucial intelligence that helped India and Bangladesh secure independence from Pakistan.

Nuclear Intelligence and Cold War Dynamics

As Pakistan raced to build its nuclear program, RAW successfully tracked developments at Kahuta nuclear facility. Its intelligence reports alerted India to the growing nuclear threat, shaping future defense policies.

Key Operations of RAW

RAW’s strength lies in its covert operations. While many of its missions remain classified, several declassified events highlight its capabilities.

Broadly, its operations focused on two areas:

• Supporting India’s nuclear secrecy

• Gathering intelligence from neighboring adversaries

Operation Smiling Buddha (1974)

When India carried out its first nuclear test in 1974, RAW ensured secrecy by preventing foreign intelligence agencies from detecting preparations. This success marked a turning point in India’s scientific and military confidence.

Operation Kahuta

In the late 1970s, RAW attempted to expose Pakistan’s nuclear project. Though the mission was compromised, it demonstrated RAW’s determination to keep track of regional threats.

RAW in the Modern Era

Post-1990s, RAW faced new challenges with the rise of terrorism and global surveillance. From the Kargil War to the 2008 Mumbai attacks, RAW’s intelligence inputs have been crucial to India’s security.

Key areas of focus included:

• Monitoring Pakistan-based terror groups

• Developing cyber-intelligence capabilities

Cross-Border Terrorism

RAW’s field agents provided critical inputs during the Kargil conflict of 1999, helping India secure tactical advantages. Post-1990s, RAW also monitored terror outfits operating from across the border.

RAW in the 21st Century

As technology advanced, RAW began shifting towards cyber espionage, satellite monitoring, and global partnerships. Its modern role involves not just physical intelligence but also tackling digital threats.

Controversies and Criticism

Like every intelligence agency, RAW has faced its share of criticism. Its secretive nature often raises questions about accountability, while failures are highlighted more than successes.

Some recurring criticisms include:

• Lack of parliamentary oversight

• Allegations of interference in neighbouring countries

International Allegations

RAW has often been accused by Pakistan and China of fuelling unrest in their territories, though India maintains denials.

Calls for Reform

Security experts within India argue for better oversight, more transparency, and modernisation of RAW’s structure to meet evolving challenges.

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Conclusion: RAW’s Place in India’s Security Framework

From its inception in 1968 to its modern-day role in cyber intelligence, RAW has remained India’s silent shield. Despite controversies, its contributions to safeguarding national security cannot be ignored.

As India emerges as a global power, RAW’s ability to adapt to new forms of warfare — from terrorism to cyberspace — will determine its relevance in the decades to come.

FAQs on the History of RAW

Q1. When was RAW formed and why?

RAW was established in 1968 after India’s intelligence failures during the 1962 Sino-Indian War and the 1965 Indo-Pak War. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and spymaster R.N. Kao created RAW to focus solely on external threats and safeguard national security.

Q2. Who was the first chief of RAW?

The first chief of RAW was Rameshwar Nath Kao, often called the “spymaster of India.” His leadership shaped the agency into a professional and highly secretive organization.

Q3. What role did RAW play in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War?

RAW provided vital intelligence, training, and support to the Mukti Bahini fighters in East Pakistan. This contribution significantly helped India and Bangladesh secure victory against Pakistan.

Q4. Does RAW operate outside India?

Yes, RAW primarily focuses on external intelligence. It operates in neighboring countries like Pakistan, China, Nepal, and Myanmar, as well as globally, to monitor threats to India’s security.

Q5. What are some of RAW’s most notable operations?

Some known operations include:

• Operation Smiling Buddha (1974): Protecting secrecy during India’s first nuclear test.

• Bangladesh Liberation (1971): Supporting Mukti Bahini for independence.

• Kahuta Mission: Tracking Pakistan’s nuclear program in the 1970s.

Q6. Is RAW accountable to the Indian Parliament?

Unlike agencies in some countries, RAW does not have direct parliamentary oversight. It functions under the Prime Minister’s Office, which makes it secretive but also criticized for lack of transparency.

Q7. How is RAW adapting in the modern era?

RAW has expanded into cyber intelligence, satellite surveillance, and counter-terrorism operations. Its role now includes preventing cross-border terrorism and tackling digital threats in addition to traditional espionage.