• Intelligence diplomacy refers to the practice of leveraging intelligence agencies and information-sharing mechanisms as tools of diplomacy to build relationships, foster cooperation, and address common security challenges among nations.

Need for intelligence diplomacy for India:

• Enhancing National Security: In an increasingly interconnected world facing diverse security threats, intelligence diplomacy allows India to collaborate with like-minded nations to gather and analyse intelligence, thereby enhancing its ability to counter terrorism, cyber threats, cross-border criminal networks, and other security challenges.
• Building Strategic Partnerships: Intelligence-sharing agreements and partnerships enable India to strengthen its ties with key allies and partners, fostering mutual trust and cooperation. By sharing intelligence with strategic partners, India can better understand regional dynamics, anticipate threats, and coordinate responses effectively.
• Addressing Transnational Challenges: Transnational challenges such as terrorism, organised crime, and cyber warfare require international cooperation and intelligence-sharing mechanisms. 
• Promoting Diplomatic Objectives: Intelligence diplomacy complements traditional diplomatic efforts by providing policymakers with valuable insights into the intentions and capabilities of other states.