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On 15 Aug 2024, India celebrated its 78th Independence Day. Santosh Kumar (podcaster), on his forum “Between Us: Every Conversation Counts”, traces the trajectory of Free India in the past 77 years and the way ahead.
In the Geo-political Section, we talked about the applicability of the ancient Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family) in modern diplomacy and global engagements.
1. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in Modern Diplomacy: “How can the ancient Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family) be applied in modern geopolitical strategies to foster global peace and cooperation?”
2. India’s Role on the Global Stage: “In the context of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ how can India position itself as a global leader in promoting inclusive development and mutual respect among nations?”
3. Defense and Diplomacy: “How can India’s defense policies align with the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ ensuring that our military strength is used as a force for peace and stability in the region and beyond?”
4. Global Partnerships: “What role can India play in building global partnerships that reflect the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ particularly in addressing shared challenges like climate change, terrorism, and pandemics?”
5. People-to-People Diplomacy: “How can citizen-led diplomacy and cultural exchanges strengthen India’s global relationships, embodying the idea of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ at the grassroots level?”
6. Strategic Autonomy with Global Responsibility: “How can India balance its strategic autonomy with a sense of global responsibility, ensuring that our actions contribute to the well-being of the global family?”
7. Humanitarian Efforts and Global Leadership: “In what ways can India’s humanitarian efforts, such as disaster relief and peacekeeping missions, be seen as expressions of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’?”
8. India’s Vision for a Multipolar World: “How does the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ influence India’s vision for a multipolar world, where power is balanced and shared among various global players?”
9. Promoting Global Security: “How can India contribute to global security frameworks that are inclusive and reflective of the ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ philosophy, ensuring that no nation feels left out?”
10. Future of Global Governance: “As global governance evolves, how can India advocate for systems and institutions that embody the values of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ promoting fairness and equity for all?”
Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.
MISSED – First delivery of TEJAS MK 1A was scheduled for 31 Mar 2024. HAL Postponed the delivery to Aug 2024.
Contract for 83 TEJAS MK1A aircraft (48,000Crore) was signed on 01 Feb 21, with commencement of delivery in 3 years.
The first sortie itself was flown on 28 Mar 24, followed by time-consuming process of snag rectifications and certification. HAL is still optimistic about meeting the delivery deadline of 83 aircraft.
Non availability of F414 GE engines and supply chain disruptions due to Russia-Ukraine and Israel-HAMAS wars adds to the woes. In Jun 2023, HAL signed a contract with GE for production of 99 F414 engines with 80% TOT in eleven critical areas. Delay is also likely in supply of AESA radars from Israel.
LCA project as replacement for Mig-21 aircraft is four decades old. So Far IAF has inducted 40 aircraft (20 in IOC and 20 in FOC configuration). Delivery of 6 trainer aircraft is pending.
MK1A version was not planned earlier. In 2015, it was envisaged as an interim version with 40 odd improvements over MK1, before MK2 version with structural changes could be developed. These improvements included, AESA radar, BVR capability, Aerial refuelling, better avionics, better EW suite and improved maintainability.
In Apr 24, MoD has issued a tender for 97 more Mk1A aircraft (40+83+97). This is to be followed by induction of MK2 (2028) and AMCA aircraft. HAL also has plans to boost its production capability from 1 line (8ac/year) to three lines (24ac/year).
Pakistan has already inducted JF17C Block 3 aircraft. It is also likely to inducted Chinese 5th generation aircraft.
China is already operating indigenously developed and produced 5th generation aircraft (J-20 and J-31). It is developing a 6th generation aircraft (by 2035).
IAF has always supported Atmanirbharta. However, its drawdown of fighter aircraft strength (30 odd sqns) is cause of serious concern. While supporting self-reliance the minimum deterrence value needs to be maintained, with a balance between the quantity and quality of platforms and weapons.
Keeping the threat perception in mind there is an urgent need to procure quality fighter aircraft. While case for 114 MRFA case is in the process, immediate procurement of two squadrons of Rafael is recommended (aircraft is already in operation with IAF). The further procurement plan could be reviewed depending upon the progress of indigenous projects.
The media is abuzz with discussions on the subject.
Link to Panel discussion with Shiv Aroor:-
Link to the quoted article by Ritu Sharma on Eurasian Times:-
Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.
