In The Ultimate Goal, Vikram Sood, former chief of India's external

intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), explains 'the

narrative' and how a country's ability to construct, sustain and control

narratives, at home and abroad, enhances its strength and position.

Intelligence agencies invariably play a critical role in this,

an often-indispensable tool of statecraft.

A 'narrative' may not necessarily be based on truth, but it does need to be

plausible, have a meaning and create a desired perception. During most of

the twentieth century, intelligence agencies helped shape narratives

favourable to their countries' agendas through literature, history, drama,

art, music and cinema. Today, social media has become crucial to

manipulating, countering or disrupting narratives, with its ability

to spread fake news and disinformation, and provoke reactions.