RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS WING (RAW)

Jan. 14, 2019

The Delhi High Court has upheld the constitutional validity of Rule 135 of the RAW (Recruitment Cadre and Services) Rules, that gives power to the Centre to voluntary retire Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) officers whose identity is exposed or compromised.

About:

Founded in: Until 1968, the Intelligence Bureau (IB), which is responsible for India’s internal intelligence, also handled external intelligence.
Working: It was founded primarily to counter China’s influence, but over time it has shifted its focus to India’s other traditional rival, Pakistan.
Mandate: Gathering foreign intelligence, engaging in counter-terrorism, promoting counter-proliferation and advancing India's foreign strategic interests. It is also involved in the security of India's nuclear programme.
Role in foreign policy: RAW claims that it contributed to several foreign policy successes –
- the creation of Bangladesh in 1971;
- India’s growing influence in Afghanistan;
- the northeast state of Sikkim’s accession to India in 1975;
- the security of India’s nuclear program;
- the success of African liberation movements during the Cold War.
HQ: New Delhi.
Administration: It works under the direct command of the Prime Minister, and reports on an administrative basis to the Cabinet Secretary of India, who reports to the Prime Minister.