Rahul Gandhi criticized the Indian government’s response to Chinese aggression, linking it to the failure of the Make in India initiative. He argued for stronger industrial systems in India and faced backlash over his comments regarding the foreign minister’s trip to the US. Additionally, he expressed concerns about India’s technological lag behind China and the implications for national security.

On Monday, Rahul Gandhi criticized the Indian government’s handling of border tensions with China, attributing the issue to the failure of the Make in India initiative. He argued that China’s aggressive stance could be traced back to its superior industrial capabilities. In his speech to the Lok Sabha, Gandhi contended that without a robust manufacturing base in India, the nation is vulnerable to foreign threats.

Furthermore, Gandhi faced backlash when he questioned the purpose of Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s trip to the US, suggesting it was to secure an invitation for Prime Minister Modi to President Trump’s inauguration. Jaishankar rebutted this claim, emphasizing that it could harm national interests. During his address, Gandhi reiterated that the failure of Make in India has, in part, allowed Chinese incursions into Indian territory.

Expressing concern that India trails China by a decade in key technological areas, Gandhi highlighted the necessity for India to ramp up its production capabilities to ensure future security. He stated, “If and when we fight a war with China, we will be fighting against Chinese batteries, optics, and robots,” reflecting his anxiety over the current state of India’s manufacturing sector.

The criticism from Gandhi prompted strong reactions from officials on the ruling side, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who urged for a serious approach to such allegations. Speaker Om Birla also demanded that Gandhi substantiate his claims. Amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, the Indian Army’s Chief assured that the situation along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh remains sensitive, despite recent diplomatic discussions between the two countries.

The backdrop of this political discourse involves an ongoing standoff between India and China related to border disputes, which have seen a gradual thaw following recent engagements between the two nations. Nonetheless, tensions remain palpable as the leaders continue to grapple with the implications of these geopolitical challenges on national security.

The article centers on a speech made by Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, where he links the challenges faced by India concerning Chinese border aggression to failures in domestic manufacturing policies, particularly the Make in India campaign. The context includes historical tensions between India and China, particularly concerning border disputes and military engagements. It highlights the criticism of the government’s approach to industrialization and security in light of Chinese technological advancement and territorial claims.

In conclusion, Rahul Gandhi’s remarks underscore critical concerns regarding India’s manufacturing capabilities and its implications for national security amidst rising Chinese assertiveness. His criticism of the Make in India initiative reflects a broader dialogue on how India can bolster its industrial systems to ensure sovereignty. Given the ongoing border tensions, the need for strategic industrial investments and accountability within the government has never been more pressing.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com

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