Power of a statement

Is India prepared for a two and half front war? The recent statement by the Indian Army chief, Gen. Bipin Rawat on the army’s readiness to fight a war from either internal or external sources showed great optimism. The eminent military threat from Pakistan in the west and China in the East has created an environment of anticipation for war in the country.

The current standing

Despite a long history in India – Pakistan relations, there have been very few instances when both countries have shared a common ground. With the regular cross border terrorism and other infiltrations, the countries have always been on alert to counter attacks. Similarly, though the diplomatic relations between India and China have been efficient, the countries have experienced many ‘bad blood’ relations. 

In addition to General’s statement, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba also stated that India is ready to counter China’s plans. The prime minister had also stated that there has not been a single bullet fired on the Indo-China Border in the last 40 years.

The growing military exports of China to India’s neighbours specifically to Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar are of concern to India. On the other hand, the confidence of the military chiefs in their preparedness is not to be over casted.

Assessment

The forthcoming meeting of the naval chief with his Israeli counterpart and the defence minister just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel could be considered as perfect timing. The recent US Pentagon reports on China’s alleged venture of building of a military base in Pakistan may have resulted in the naval chief’s statement of the country’s readiness.

The increased development in the China-Pakistan Economic Border as well as growth of the Gwadar port in Pakistan is bringing both China and Pakistan closer economically and in defence. This close connection of India’s neighbours though has been under close watch, their moves have been unpredictable. In addition, the gravity of the implication on India is highly critical and immense.

Statements made by both the Army chief and the Naval chief have been very optimistic and confident. Does this assured and assertive behaviour of the heads imply that there is an anticipation of an attack or a situation of combat in the near future that the military is prepared for? The significant increase in the development of indigenous defence machinery, with the initiative of ‘Make in India’ policy shows the need for modernisation through procurement of defence weaponry in India. Thus, the growth in the defence technology and the development of forces indicate the anticipation for an upcoming war?