Institution: Bank Asia Ltd Exam: Bank Asia Ltd - Management Trainees - 17.06.2011 ||
Topic: Bangladesh GK, Subject: Bangladesh GK (বাংলাদেশ বিষয়াবলী)

Best Answer Explained in Below-:

The acronym "RAW" stands for the Research and Analysis Wing, which is the external intelligence agency of India. Established in 1968, RAW is responsible for collecting intelligence related to national security, conducting covert operations, and countering foreign espionage. It was formed in response to India's security challenges during the 1960s, particularly following the Sino-Indian War in 1962 and the need for more effective intelligence capabilities.

Unlike many intelligence agencies that have broader mandates or are involved in domestic law enforcement, RAW focuses primarily on external affairs and threats to India's sovereignty. Its operations and intelligence-gathering efforts are crucial for India's strategic planning and can involve diplomatic efforts, information gathering on international developments, and surveillance of neighboring countries.

The agency's importance is underscored by several high-profile operations, such as its involvement in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and plays a significant role in understanding and countering terrorism and insurgencies in the region. In contrast, the other options (USA, Iran, and Pakistan) have their own intelligence agencies, such as the CIA (USA) or ISI (Pakistan), but RAW specifically refers to India's intelligence framework.