ABSTRACT
Despite the predictions regarding the state becoming an abstract construct in a globalized world. The world over, and in South Asia specifically, not only does the state remain the key guardian but also the provider of security. Although there has been a radical shift not only in the nature and pattern of conflict but also regarding the discourse on security which gave rise to the notion of human security, it is not yet reflected in the South Asian region, where state-centred perspectives with a focus on enhancing military postures and capabilities remain deeply entrenched. With security threats, other than those faced traditionally, the South Asian state remains under pressure owing to inadequate resources as well as a limiting capacity to deliver. The key questions to be addressed in the chapter are, given the changing global discourse, has the South Asian state made a transition from purely state-centric to alternate security perspective? Does the contemporary South Asian state hold the capacity to adapt? What and how has been the role played by the public–private enterprise, and is it a bridge builder or a spoiler?
