RAW Full Form?

India’s foreign intelligence agency RAW has consistently ranked among the top 10 spy agencies in the world

In a world full of enemy states and rogue players, intelligence agencies play a crucial role in securing a nation’s security interests. In India, that critical job is largely handled by RAW. Like other intelligence agencies, the operations of RAW are highly secretive and confidential. Let us get more information about India’s intelligence agency RAW.

What is RAW full form?

The full form of RAW is Research & Analysis Wing (R&AW). In terms of pronunciation, people use either R&AW or simply RAW. Talking a bit about its history, RAW was formed on 21st September, 1968. It is one of the longest serving government organizations in the country. Before RAW was launched, the organization preceding it was the Intelligence Bureau (IB). RAW was carved out specifically to handle overseas security threats. The Intelligence Bureau still exists, but is tasked mostly with handling internal security threats.

A unique thing about R&AW is that it reports directly to the prime minister. This helps avoid bureaucratic hassles and potential leaks that could occur if more people are involved. R&AW has been created by an executive order, which means it does not have to answer to the Indian Parliament. This ensures that R&AW can function freely to tackle international security threats.

How powerful is RAW?

The need for R&AW was felt after the 1962 India-China war and the 1965 India-Pak war. The agency has grown quite powerful in recent years, often compared with the likes of the CIA and Mossad. R&AW is currently focused on various roles such as conducting covert operations, intelligence gathering, monitoring foreign threats, conducting counter-terrorism operations and safeguarding the nation’s strategic interests including India’s nuclear program.

It is estimated that RAW has around 10,000 staff in various roles. It includes desk jobs as well as field operations. Areas where R&AW has shown its proficiency include technical espionage, nuclear security and handling regional power dynamics. Like other intelligence agencies, the R&AW does not make any claims about its accomplishments or failures. Most of its missions are highly classified. However, the agency’s role becomes evident when stories make headlines in newspapers and across online media channels.

It is widely reported that R&AW played a crucial role in the independence of Bangladesh. It is reported that R&AW worked with the Mukti Bahini fighters in Bangladesh to disrupt forces from Pakistan. Another key project which is credited to R&AW is Operation Smiling Buddha (1974), India’s first nuclear test. Then in the 70s and 80s, it is reported that R&AW successfully revealed Pakistan’s nuclear operations in Kahuta.

How to become a RAW agent?

RAW agents are selected internally from existing government agencies. You will not find any direct public recruitment for RAW like IPS or UPSC. However, if you are already in IPS and UPSC, you can be considered for a role inside the R&AW. A RAW agent can also be selected from other sources such as the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) or other allied services, Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Intelligence Bureau (IB) and paramilitary.

To become a RAW agent, you apparently have to be an Indian citizen, have a clean background and show strong physical and mental abilities. Depending on the operation, you may also need to be proficient in a specific foreign language(s). Once selected, you will have to undergo rigorous training for around 2 years. RAW recruits discreetly and focuses on the skills, talent and intent of the candidate.