Intelligence agencies play a crucial role in maintaining the security and stability of a nation. They provide vital, accurate, and timely information to policymakers and political authorities, which forms the basis of major decision-making processes. These agencies specialize in various domains of security, including foreign threats, domestic security, military affairs, criminal activity, and financial crimes.

A Glance at Intelligence Agencies Around the Globe Below is a brief overview of some of the most important intelligence agencies worldwide:

A Deep Dive into R&AW (Research and Analysis Wing), India

• R&AW came into existence on 21 September 1968.
• The agency is headquartered in the capital city, New Delhi.
• It was formed in the aftermath of the Sino-Indian War’s intelligence failures, leading the Indian government to establish a dedicated, independent agency for foreign intelligence gathering.
• Before R&AW, the Intelligence Bureau (IB) was the sole body responsible for both internal and external intelligence.
• The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) directly controls the agency.
• The primary objective of the agency was to conduct intelligence gathering in West & East Pakistan and in China.
• It also aimed to curtail the supply of weapons from western countries to Pakistan.

Intelligence Agencies of Different Countries

An Overview of CIA (Central Intelligence Agency), USA

The CIA was established by the National Security Act of 1947. It operates as an independent agency under the National Security Council. Mission – The agency’s primary goal is to gather and evaluate intelligence related to national security and facilitate its appropriate dissemination within the government. The CIA’s headquarters are located in Virginia, United States.

Insights into Mossad, Israel

• The Institute for Intelligence and Special Operations, known as Mossad, is based in Tel Aviv, Israel.
• Mossad was established on December 13, 1949.

An Overview of ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), Pakistan

• ISI was established in 1948 and is headquartered in Islamabad, Pakistan.
• The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan has made a significant impact on a range of issues, including regional politics, international relations, guerilla warfare, and sub-conventional mechanisms, such as instigating uprisings and armed rebellions.
• The ISI also plays a role in countering terrorism within and outside Pakistan.
• Controlled and led by the Pakistan Army, the ISI has a significant influence on most matters concerning the country, whether domestic or international.

Intelligence Agencies of Different Countries

Defence Institutes in India