Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi asserts that China’s rise complicates India’s leadership ambitions in the Global South during his speech at the Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture. He credits India’s demographic and strategic advantages but points out the need to address challenges in global decision-making. Emphasizing technological prowess and collaboration with global partners, he advocates for reforms in international governance to better reflect the Global South’s interests.
In a recent address at the fourth General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture in Delhi, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi articulated that China’s ascendance as a dominant economic and strategic entity complicates and undermines India’s aspiration to lead the Global South. He stated that understanding regional dynamics, particularly regarding Africa as a future power center, is essential for India to harness its geographical and demographic advantages effectively.
General Dwivedi emphasized that despite India’s significant population, democratic governance, and geostrategic positioning, the nation finds itself relatively disadvantaged in global matters. He remarked, “We have been repeatedly blocked, leaving us with little ability to shape key international decisions directly.” The challenges faced by the BRICS alliance also signify the geopolitical hurdles impacting India’s global standing.
Highlighting the importance of technology in national security, the Army Chief noted that technological capabilities represent a new currency in deterrence, with data serving as a pivotal asset in trade and security relationships. He asserted that a strong military-civil fusion and a robust domestic defense industry are critical for establishing national security.
General Dwivedi further advocated for India’s alignment with its global partners, particularly those in the Global South. He outlined necessary reforms in the United Nations Security Council to better represent these nations and recommended that India take a proactive role in conflict resolution, acting as a mediator and leveraging the strength of its diaspora for humanitarian initiatives.
Moreover, he proposed that India should lead in peacekeeping operations and promote nuclear weapons strictly for deterrent purposes. Asserting India’s proactive stance in counter-terrorism operations, he assured that the Indian Army remains integrated with the nation’s strategic goals.
In summary, General Upendra Dwivedi’s reflections underscore the challenges posed by China’s rise to India’s ambition of leading the Global South. He stresses the significance of technological advancements, reform in international governance structures, and the necessity for India to engage more actively with its global partners. The highlighted strategies aim to bolster India’s position in a rapidly changing international landscape.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
