In a lecture, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted that China’s rise complicates India’s quest for leadership in the Global South. He discussed the need for India to leverage its strengths and reform global governance, while promoting technological advancement and alignment with international partners to enhance its standing and influence.

In a recent address at the fourth General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture in New Delhi, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi discussed the significant challenges posed by China’s rise as an economic and strategic power, which he argued hampers India’s ambitions to lead the Global South. He elaborated on how the increasing competition complicated India’s capacity to influence international affairs.

General Dwivedi emphasized the necessity of recognizing Africa’s potential as a future power center amidst global shifts in democracy and resource control. Despite India’s advantages in geography, demography, and democratic governance, he noted that it has not achieved a proportional standing on the global stage, facing repeated hurdles in influencing major global decisions.

He also evaluated India’s participation in platforms like BRICS, where setbacks have occurred, particularly regarding its challenges to the US dollar. General Dwivedi urged attention to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and its implications for India’s strategic landscape.

Focusing on national security, the Army Chief asserted that technological advancements are now pivotal for deterrence, with data becoming crucial for trade and security. He insisted on a comprehensive military-civil fusion, robust defense industry, and informed decision-making for an effective national security framework.

General Dwivedi acknowledged the call for a multi-polar world led by anti-colonial allies and reaffirmed the significance of cooperative frameworks to prevent conflict and align with global partners. He advocated for reforms in the UN Security Council to ensure representation for the Global South and proposed a proactive role for India in conflict resolution and humanitarian efforts.

He highlighted the necessity of leading in peacekeeping operations and using India’s nuclear capabilities solely as a means of deterrence. By drawing from firsthand experiences in regions affected by extremism, he reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to align closely with national security goals.

Overall, General Dwivedi’s insights reflect the imperative for India to navigate the complexities of global power dynamics while striving to enhance its position as a pivotal player in the Global South.

General Upendra Dwivedi’s remarks underline the multifaceted challenges India faces in establishing itself as a leader in the Global South amidst China’s rise. He stresses the importance of leveraging India’s strengths, promoting reform in global governance structures, and enhancing security through technological innovation. Aligning with global partners, India’s proactive involvement in peacekeeping and conflict resolution emerges as essential strategies for enhancing its global standing and influence.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com

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