This handbook documents the evolution in Indian defence policy over the last six decades and the major debates that have shaped its trajectory. With contributions by well-known scholars and policy-makers, the book develops a framework to understand the changes and continuity in Indian defence policy as well as its impact on India's emergence as a major global player. When talking about Indian defense policy a former army chief famously talked about the "arrogance of ignorance". In twenty-five important chapters Indian and foreign contributors address the "ignorance" side of this quip, dissecting relevant parts of Indian military history, the frozen defense bureaucracy, and the tough problem of identifying and responding to threats. The book rightly raises questions about how India arms and defends itself, and more importantly, how it prioritizes security problems. It is a must-have reference book for anyone interested in the future of one of the world's major powers. -- Stephen P. Cohen, Senior Fellow, The?Brookings Institution, Washington, DC