The primary focus of all research activity at the department has been mostly on matters relating to India’s national security. All threats both external and internal to national security have been identified and studies have been continuing. In this context, international terrorism, internal security and law enforcement reforms would be accorded high priority. The inter-linked themes falling within the scope of this broad concept of national security are some or all of the following:

• Strategic Dimensions of Security including conventional weapons, nuclear weapons, delivery systems including ballistic missiles and other weapons of mass destruction;
• Economic Dimensions of Security including infrastructure, industry, trade and commerce;
• Energy Security including conventional & renewable sources as well as nuclear power;
• Ethnic and Demographic Dimensions of Security, including the status of tribals & minorities, population trends and ethnic, sectarian and communal harmony
• Climate Change & Environmental Security, including pollution control, resource conservation & sustainable growth
• Food Security, including farming practices, agricultural productivity and public distribution
• Health Security, including public health and safety, sanitation issues and epidemic control
• Proclivity for natural calamities and emergency preparedness
• Security against internal insurgencies and civil strife and public disturbances.
• Security against external threats, including war, terrorism and foreign infiltration

In the light of the above-mentioned objectives, and taking into account India’s current challenges and its future as an emerging global power, the proposed think tank would also focus on the following countries and regional groupings:

• Neighbouring countries including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar
• SAARC Countries
• Indian Ocean littoral countries including Sri Lanka
• ASEAN and Australia
• China and Japan
• Gulf and Middle East
• Central Asian Republics and SCO
• European Union
• United States & Canada
• Russia and CIS states
• Emerging economies in S. America & Africa such as Brazil & South Africa