Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated that China’s rise complicates India’s ambitions to lead the Global South, suggesting a need to consider Africa as a potential power center. He discussed India’s challenges in influencing international decisions and the importance of emerging technologies in national security. Additionally, he advocated for reforming the UN Security Council and enhancing India’s role in conflict resolution and humanitarian efforts.

General Upendra Dwivedi, the Indian Army chief, recently indicated that China’s emergence as a formidable economic and strategic entity complicates India’s aspirations to lead the Global South. During the fourth General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture in New Delhi, he stressed the need for India to consider Africa as a potential center of power, emphasizing that this geopolitical landscape is shifting; India needs to adapt accordingly.

In his address, General Dwivedi outlined the challenges facing India in influencing international decisions. He acknowledged India’s advantageous position, citing its demographics, geography, and democratic values. However, he lamented that despite these strengths, India’s global prominence remains subpar amid persistent obstacles in effectively shaping significant international dialogues, particularly mentioning the setbacks faced by BRICS and the pushback against its efforts to challenge the US dollar.

The Army Chief underscored the crucial role of emerging technologies in national security, proclaiming that technological capabilities have evolved into vital instruments of deterrence. He asserted that a comprehensive defense strategy must incorporate military-civil integration, an indigenous defense industrial base, and the engagement of informed decision-makers to foster resilience in national defense operations.

General Dwivedi articulated a vision for India within a multipolar world, advocating for partnerships among nations to mitigate conflicts. He expressed hopes that had General Rawat been present, he would have championed India’s proactive involvement in various international frameworks, including SCO, BRICS, BIMSTEC, and regional associations in the Indian Ocean.

He also stressed the importance of India collaborating with its Global South partners. General Dwivedi proposed reforms to the UN Security Council to represent Global South nations better, emphasizing India’s potential role in mediating conflicts and leveraging its vast diaspora for humanitarian efforts. He called for leadership in peacekeeping, advocating nuclear weapons strictly for deterrence, and ensuring alignment with national objectives against terrorism threats.

In summary, General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted the complexities introduced by China’s rise as a strategic power on India’s path to leadership within the Global South. He emphasized the importance of strengthening ties in Africa, leveraging emerging technologies, and actively participating in international frameworks. Moreover, his call for UN reforms and conflict mediation showcases India’s potential to play a transformative role on the global stage while maintaining its strategic interests.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com

Related posts:

Challenges Facing India’s Leadership in the Global South: Insights from Army Chief Gen Dwivedi Gen Upendra Dwivedi Highlights Security Concerns Amidst Pakistan-China Ties Post-Afghanistan Realities: Pakistan’s Strategic Dilemmas Under Trump Evolving Strategic Dynamics Among China, Russia, India, and the United States at Oksenberg Symposium