Recent News: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened to discuss national security matters. The announcement was made by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri after a 2.5-hour meeting chaired by PM Modi.
Purpose: The CCS is responsible for discussions, debates, and decisions on defense policy, expenditure, and national security matters, including appointments to national security bodies.
Composition: Headed by the Prime Minister, it includes the Ministers of Home Affairs, Defence, Finance, and External Affairs. The National Security Advisor (NSA) acts as the secretary-level coordinator.
Functions: It deals with defense, foreign affairs, intelligence, nuclear issues, space policy, major appointments related to national security, law and order, and internal security. The CCS also deliberates on policy matters concerning foreign affairs on security-related issues and atomic energy.
Cabinet Committees: Extra-constitutional bodies designed to reduce the Union Cabinet’s burden by focusing on specific policy areas. There are eight cabinet committees, with most headed by the PM.
Historical Significance: CCS meetings have been called during major events like wars with Pakistan, the Kargil conflict, and the Kandahar hijack, demonstrating its role in critical decision-making.
Decision Making: The CCS resolves issues, formulates proposals for the Cabinet, and makes decisions on assigned matters. The Cabinet can review these decisions.
