General Upendra Dwivedi remarked that China’s dominance complicates India’s goal to lead the Global South. He emphasized India’s strategic relevance but acknowledged its low global standing. He discussed the importance of technology in security, the necessity for international engagement, and reforms in the UN Security Council to include Global South representatives.
General Upendra Dwivedi, the Army Chief of India, expressed concerns regarding China’s ascendancy as a formidable economic and strategic presence, complicating India’s ambition to lead the Global South. He articulated these views during the fourth General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture in New Delhi, emphasizing the challenges India encounters in influencing significant international decisions.
The General noted that India’s demographic and geographic attributes, combined with its democratic ethos, ensure its relevance on the world stage. Despite being the world’s largest democracy, the seventh largest country, and possessing substantial soft power, India retains a lower status in global affairs, which hampers its capacity to contribute meaningfully at international forums.
Moreover, Gen Dwivedi highlighted the influence of technology on national security, stating that technological advancement is now critical for deterrence, with data regarded as the cornerstone of trade and security. He underscored the necessity for a robust military-civilian integration, a self-reliant defense industry, and proactive decision-making to enhance India’s capabilities.
He reiterated the concept of anti-colonial alliances advocating for a multipolar world order and emphasized the role of various nations in preventing conflicts. He posited that India should engage actively within frameworks like SCO, BRICS, and BIMSTEC to bolster its position and influence.
In addition, General Dwivedi called for comprehensive reforms in the United Nations Security Council to incorporate voices from the Global South, advocating for India’s active engagement in conflict resolution and humanitarian initiatives. He underscored the need to leverage the Indian diaspora’s strengths and to lead efforts in peacekeeping and counter-terrorism endeavors, affirming the Indian Army’s commitment to national strategic objectives.
In conclusion, General Upendra Dwivedi articulated significant challenges India faces due to China’s rise, which complicates India’s aspirations of leadership within the Global South. He highlighted the essential role of technology in security and encouraged India to participate actively in international frameworks. Furthermore, he emphasized the need for reforms in global governance structures to better represent the Global South and harness India’s capabilities for conflict resolution and socioeconomic development.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
