Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi warns that China’s rise as a global force is hindering India’s leadership aspirations in the Global South. He calls for strategic partnerships, technological advancement in defense, and enhanced roles in international governance, especially concerning reforms in the UN Security Council.
General Upendra Dwivedi, the Indian Army Chief, expressed concerns regarding China’s emergence as a powerful economic and strategic force, which complicates India’s aspirations to lead the Global South. During the General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture in New Delhi, he emphasized the need for India to explore Africa’s potential as a future power center.
General Dwivedi noted that despite India’s significant advantages, including its large population and democratic governance, it has struggled to influence global decision-making effectively. He acknowledged challenges confronting India, including competition with China and setbacks faced within international frameworks like BRICS.
He asserted that security now demands advanced technological capabilities, as data has transformed into the crucial capital for trade and national security. General Dwivedi pointed out the necessity for a resilient defense infrastructure and emphasized the importance of military-civil fusion to bolster India’s deterrence strategy.
The Army Chief discussed the importance of partnering with nations in the Global South to advocate for reforms, such as adding representatives from these nations to the UN Security Council. He urged a proactive role in conflict resolution and highlighted the significance of the Indian diaspora in humanitarian efforts.
General Dwivedi suggested that India should assume leadership roles in peacekeeping and terrorism management, stressing the need for a collective strategy to enhance the socio-economic development of underprivileged communities worldwide. He reinforced the Indian Army’s commitment to align with national objectives and contribute to global peace initiatives.
In summary, General Upendra Dwivedi articulated the significant challenges posed by China’s rise to India’s ambitions for leadership in the Global South. He called for leveraging Africa’s potential, enhancing technological capabilities for security, and fostering partnerships with developing nations. Furthermore, his insights reflected on the necessity for India to play a pivotal role in reforming international governance structures and addressing global issues collectively.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
