New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, retaining his Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in his third term, is poised to maintain continuity in national security. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval will accompany Modi to the G-7 summit in Italy on June 13. Orders for the continuation of Principal Secretary Dr. P K Mishra and the NSA are anticipated.
The Modi administration must enhance its island territories to strengthen maritime security against China. Developing the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep is crucial to counter the Chinese threat in the Indo-Pacific. The Indian Navy needs platforms like Rafale Maritime fighters to enhance the capabilities of INS Vikrant and other naval assets.
As Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande nears retirement on June 30, Lt General Upendra Dwivedi, with his extensive experience in Northern Command, emerges as a top candidate. Meanwhile, decisions on key intelligence positions, including the tenure of Tapan Deka, Director of Intelligence Bureau, are imminent.
India’s growing geopolitical challenges necessitate bolstering external intelligence. The country must develop self-reliant intelligence capabilities and not depend solely on shared intelligence. The increasing influence of the Chinese PLA Navy and geopolitical shifts underscore the need for robust maritime security strategies.
As India aspires to be a global power under Modi 3.0, improving domain awareness vis-à-vis China and Pakistan, along with self-appointed rivals like Canada and Germany, is imperative. The Modi government must adapt national security doctrines to address future concerns, ensuring preparedness for emerging maritime threats and geopolitical dynamics.
