Research and Analysis Wing Completes 58 Years of Operations

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Key takeaways

R&AW completed 58 years of service on 21st September 1968, functioning under the Cabinet Secretariat and reporting directly to the PMO.
Formed in 1968 under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, its first chief R.N. Kao built the organizational framework following gaps exposed in the 1962 India-China War.
The agency played a pivotal role in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War through intelligence support and group coordination.
Initially centered on China and Pakistan, its modern mandate embraces counterterrorism and regional security.

The Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) recently completed 58 years since its establishment on 21st September 1968.

It serves as India's main external intelligence agency, operating under the Cabinet Secretariat and reporting straight to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

Shortcomings in intelligence during the 1962 India-China War highlighted the need for a dedicated foreign intelligence organization. Before 1968, the Intelligence Bureau (IB) managed both domestic and foreign intelligence duties.

Prime Minister Indira Gandhi established the agency in 1968 with R.N. Kao as its first chief to build its institutional framework and operations.

The agency tracks developments in neighboring countries, gathers foreign intelligence, and supports national security along with foreign policy goals.

The agency played a crucial role during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War by providing vital intelligence and coordinating with resistance groups.

Over the years, the agency expanded its focus beyond China and Pakistan to cover counterterrorism, strategic intelligence, and regional security.