<h4>Introduction to the National Security Council (NSC)</h4><p>The <strong>National Security Council (NSC)</strong> serves as India's apex advisory body on matters of <strong>national security</strong>. It plays a crucial role in integrating and coordinating various aspects of security policy, from internal threats to external challenges.</p><p>Its establishment marked a significant step in formalizing India's national security apparatus, moving towards a more structured and comprehensive approach to safeguarding national interests.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Apex Body:</strong> The <strong>NSC</strong> is the highest body for national security management in India, providing strategic guidance to the government.</p></div><h4>Recent Developments: Appointments to the National Security Council</h4><p>In a notable development, <strong>Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA) Rajinder Khanna</strong> was appointed as an <strong>additional NSA</strong>. This marks the first time such a position has been filled, indicating an expansion of the NSC's leadership.</p><p>Previously, the post of <strong>additional NSA</strong> existed but remained vacant. This appointment underscores the evolving needs and increasing complexity of India's security landscape.</p><p>Additionally, <strong>Intelligence Bureau (IB) special director T.V. Ravichandran</strong> has been appointed as a <strong>Deputy NSA</strong>, further strengthening the council's operational capabilities.</p><h4>Organizational Structure of the National Security Council</h4><p>The <strong>NSA</strong> (National Security Advisor) holds a pivotal role, acting as the secretary of the <strong>National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS)</strong>. The <strong>NSCS</strong> is one of the three key components forming the three-tiered structure of the <strong>NSC</strong>.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>The <strong>NSC</strong> operates under a <strong>three-tier structure</strong> comprising:</p><ul><li><strong>Strategic Policy Group (SPG)</strong></li><li><strong>National Security Advisory Board (NSAB)</strong></li><li><strong>National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS)</strong></li></ul></div><h4>The Strategic Policy Group (SPG)</h4><p>The <strong>Strategic Policy Group (SPG)</strong> is a critical component of the <strong>NSC's</strong> structure. It is responsible for high-level policy-making and follow-up actions related to national security.</p><p>The <strong>SPG</strong> is chaired by the <strong>Cabinet Secretary</strong>, ensuring coordination across various government ministries and departments. It comprises senior serving officials who bring diverse expertise to the national security discourse.</p>