Chinese embassy officials in India unleashed a rant on social media after WION's special show on Taiwan. Palki Sharma traces China's obsession with WION and their efforts to silence our reportage.

Gravitas: Chinese embassy in meltdown over WION report

Foreign officers were among over 230 naval officers who passed out at the Indian naval academy. WION's Sidharth MP in an exclusive conversation with a top Navy official, MA Hampiholi, commandant, Indian naval academy.

Vice admiral MA Hampiholi shares vision of Indian Naval Academy

In an event, marking the constitution day, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind called for judicial reforms, calling for the creation of an All- India Judicial Service for the recruitment and appointment of judges.

India: President Ram Nath Kovind  bats for All- India Judicial Service | Latest English News

As fears of the new variant continue to grow, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Sunday issued new guidelines for international travellers arriving in India.

As fears of the new variant continue to grow, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Sunday issued new guidelines for international travellers arriving in India. These will come into effect starting from December 1. The new guidelines mandate submitting travel details of 14 days. Also, the travellers will be required to upload their negative RT-PCR test report on the Air Suvidha portal before the journey. Along with the report, every international traveller needs to fill a self-declaration form. #Unite2FightCorona 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐃-𝟏𝟗 ➡️ India issues Revised Guidelines for International Travelers in view of reported cases of new SARS-CoV-2 variant (#Omicron) across the world.https://t.co/kuIjXN6qMD pic.twitter.com/U92IOgMX23 — Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) November 29, 2021 × People arriving from "at-risk" nations need to provide samples of RT-PCR testing and those who test positive will have to quarantine. Those who have been infected with the new Covid strain will need to follow stricter isolation rules. The "at-risk" countries are - several countries in Europe including The United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Israel. Even if people from this category test negative, a 7-day home quarantine is mandatory. Also read | Those who had COVID-19 may be reinfected more easily with Omicron: WHO For people arriving from the no-risk areas, there will be random sampling for RT-PCR tests. If tested positive, the sample will be further sent for genome sequencing. Those who test negative will be advised to monitor themselves for at least two weeks. The announcement comes after a meeting was held with various experts including Dr VK Paul, member of NITI Aayog, Dr Vijay Raghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister and senior officers from Health, Civil Aviation and other ministries. As the new virus variant B.1.1.529 gripped the world on Friday, the World Health Organisation moved to name it Omicron and designated it as a "variant of concern". The new variant has created panic as countries have banned flights from South Africa where it was first discovered including other African countries. Apart from South Africa, the new variant was also discovered in Botswana, Israel and Hong Kong. As of now, it. has spread to 15 different countries worldwide.

As new variant spreads rapidly, India revises guidelines for international travellers

Meet one of the leaders who is redefining defence ties between India and Maldives. What does this partnership mean for the Indo-Pacific and what are the challenges that lie ahead? To discuss all of this and more watch this interview of Palki Sharma Upadhyay with Mariya Ahmed Didi, the defence minister of Maldives.

WION Exclusive: Maldivian Defence Min. Mariya Didi speaks on narco trafficking, maritime terrorism

On November 26, India marked its 72nd Constitution Day. It was on this day in 1949 when the constitution of India was drafted. What went into its making? Palki Sharma gets you some lesser-known facts from history.

Gravitas: India's Constitution Day: Lesser-known facts about the Constitution

13 years ago, on 26/11, India was attacked by 10 terrorists from Pakistan. The 8 coordinated attacks in Mumbai killed 166 people. It's a day India will never forget, never forgive. Palki Sharma tells you all about it.

Gravitas: 13 years of 26/11 attacks

India, Russia, and China have joined hands to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches the people of Afghanistan. This was discussed in the 18th meeting of RIC (Russia, India, and China) nations.

India, Russia, and China to work together to combat terror

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starlink, which is a satellite broadband arm of Elon Musk-led SpaceX, is advertising about its services. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starlink has been directed by the Department of Telecom to follow the regulatory framework for offering satellite-based services. It has also been told to refrain from booking or rendering the services in India "with immediate effect". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-covid-variant-emerges-indian-pm-modi-chairs-vital-meeting-to-assess-situation-432294" hreflang="en">As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation</a>

The government, in a statement, said that it has taken notice of Starlink starting pre-selling or booking of the satellite-based services in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Department of Telecom also observed that it is also evident from Starlink’s website, which says internet services can be booked by users in India. &nbsp;

"Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India has pointed out that 'Starlink Internet Services' is not licensed to offer satellite-based internet services in India being advertised to the public," the statement said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reserve-bank-of-india-rejects-proposal-on-corporate-ownership-of-banks-432276" hreflang="en">Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks</a>

"It is hereby informed to the public at large that the said company has not obtained any license/authorisation for rendering satellite-based internet services that are being booked on their website," it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The official statement said that as Starlink is not a licensee, "the public is advised not to subscribe to Starlink services being advertised." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country.

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country. Starlink, which is a satellite broadband arm of Elon Musk-led SpaceX, is advertising about its services. Starlink has been directed by the Department of Telecom to follow the regulatory framework for offering satellite-based services. It has also been told to refrain from booking or rendering the services in India "with immediate effect". Also Read: As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation The government, in a statement, said that it has taken notice of Starlink starting pre-selling or booking of the satellite-based services in the country. The Department of Telecom also observed that it is also evident from Starlink’s website, which says internet services can be booked by users in India. "Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India has pointed out that 'Starlink Internet Services' is not licensed to offer satellite-based internet services in India being advertised to the public," the statement said. Also Read: Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks "It is hereby informed to the public at large that the said company has not obtained any license/authorisation for rendering satellite-based internet services that are being booked on their website," it said. The official statement said that as Starlink is not a licensee, "the public is advised not to subscribe to Starlink services being advertised." (With inputs from agencies)

Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-more-women-than-men-for-the-first-time-finds-government-survey-431969" hreflang="en">India has more women than men for the first time, finds government survey</a>

The PM 10 was recorded at 376 in the 'very poor' category while PM 2.5 was 224 in the 'very poor' category at 7:50 am in the morning. The AQI of 350 and 463 was recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. &nbsp;

In a bulletin, SAFAR said, "Local surface winds are relatively low for the next three days that reduce the dispersion of pollutants leading to the deterioration of air quality but within the 'upper end of very poor' category." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-to-reopen-schools-offices-on-nov-29-as-air-quality-improves-marginally-431699" hreflang="en">Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally</a>

On November 29, surface winds are likely to increase leading to improvement of air quality but still it may remain within the 'very poor' category, it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Local emissions and weather (mixing layer height and wind speed) are likely to be the dominant factors controlling air quality. Effective fire count is 219 and its per cent share in Delhi's PM2.5 is 6 per cent," it added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning. Also Read: India has more women than men for the first time, finds government survey The PM 10 was recorded at 376 in the 'very poor' category while PM 2.5 was 224 in the 'very poor' category at 7:50 am in the morning. The AQI of 350 and 463 was recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. In a bulletin, SAFAR said, "Local surface winds are relatively low for the next three days that reduce the dispersion of pollutants leading to the deterioration of air quality but within the 'upper end of very poor' category." Also Read: Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally On November 29, surface winds are likely to increase leading to improvement of air quality but still it may remain within the 'very poor' category, it said. "Local emissions and weather (mixing layer height and wind speed) are likely to be the dominant factors controlling air quality. Effective fire count is 219 and its per cent share in Delhi's PM2.5 is 6 per cent," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pollution: Indian capital’s overall air quality slips to 'very poor' category

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will hold talks in the virtual format on Friday. The Foreign Ministers are expected to deliberate on regional issues of mutual interests.

Foreign Ministers of India, China, Russia set to hold virtual meeting

India's proposed cryptocurrency bill has created ripples as the country has stated that it will now debating a bill on the regulation of private cryptocurrency leading to the crashing of various crypto currencies. WION in an exclusive conversation with Monika Halan Author of "Let's Talk Money" on India's crypto conundrum.

India: One of the biggest crypto markets | Monika Halan exclusive on India's crypto conundrum

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis. The minister is in India for the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Tettamanti said, "We think whole machinery has to be revamped. We have to discuss this as there are different views and details have to be put somehow." &nbsp;

Foreign office consultations took place between Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), India and Argentine deputy foreign minister on Wednesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to MEA, "Both countries recalled their mutual assistance during Covid and reiterated their joint resolve to continue mutual cooperation in their fight against the pandemic and post-pandemic recovery." &nbsp;

WION: What is the key focus of your Delhi visit? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: I came for our bilateral regular meetings with the foreign affairs ministry of India. We have a strategic association and created a mechanism by which ministry of foreign affairs meet regularly. Covid had made it very difficult. We had a meeting last year, which was virtual and I took advantage of the opening up to come to India to meet my counterpart Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das and was honoured to meet EAM Jaishankar and discuss our bilateral relationship. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-lunar-lander-japanese-rover-to-explore-moon-in-lupex-mission-says-jaxa-official-431774" hreflang="en">Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official</a>

&nbsp;

WION: How will you characterise the relationship between the two countries? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: Officially, we have a strategic association but it goes beyond that. There is a common view of many of the global issues and agenda, and we have same kind of approach too. It has been true in different periods of history, Argentina and India have always had a common vision as to how we believe things have to be solved. There are issues in which we have to find common ground but in general, we have an approach, which is very similar and I think that is the basis. We could see that in discussions. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: What is the key outcome of dialogue in Delhi? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We have a series of mechanism that we have to put again, moving on. We will have meetings to discuss this issue but to be more specific, we have already been able to discuss MoUs on mining, which should show results in investments to the benefits of the two sides. We have been discussing how we can improve trade, possibility of cooperation in scientific and technological field, how to respond to Covid, having exchanges, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: How has been the cooperation to deal with Covid and people-to-people movement? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We are accepting international travellers who are fully vaccinated. We have been working on similar vaccines, both in India and Argentina. Many people, including myself have received Covishield vaccine so this is something that is naturally recognised. There is paper work, which is normal things, PCR test, etc. But all in all, we are going back to normalisation. In both countries, tourism was hit hard by Covid. But it is also something both countries plan to increase, as it crucial to recovery on economic side. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-foreign-secretary-harsh-shringla-says-carefully-assessing-trade-ties-with-china-431720" hreflang="en">India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla says 'carefully' assessing trade ties with China</a>

&nbsp;

WION: Engagement at multilateral organisations like UN? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: Before Covid and afterwards, we have been talking about multilateralism. We think whole machinery is to be revamped. We have to discuss this. Though there are different views and details have to be somehow put in proportion and see how it works out. We have to work for better United Nations, WTO, etc. We both are members of the G20 and have voiced the concern of the emerging economies. We believe there is a possibility of our points of views being discussed and heard. With India, we have a common approach. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WION: Your views on the Indo-Pacific vision? Was there any conversation in Delhi? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We have been exchanging views on how we can respond to challenges we face. We have seen the common ground, we believe in dialogue, human rights, negations and we need to put terrorism behind us. Realities are different in one region and another. Latin America faces more Pacific situation but approach is the same and we have exchanged views. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis.

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis. The minister is in India for the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations. Speaking to WION Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Tettamanti said, "We think whole machinery has to be revamped. We have to discuss this as there are different views and details have to be put somehow." Foreign office consultations took place between Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), India and Argentine deputy foreign minister on Wednesday. According to MEA, "Both countries recalled their mutual assistance during Covid and reiterated their joint resolve to continue mutual cooperation in their fight against the pandemic and post-pandemic recovery." WION: What is the key focus of your Delhi visit? Pablo Tettamanti: I came for our bilateral regular meetings with the foreign affairs ministry of India. We have a strategic association and created a mechanism by which ministry of foreign affairs meet regularly. Covid had made it very difficult. We had a meeting last year, which was virtual and I took advantage of the opening up to come to India to meet my counterpart Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das and was honoured to meet EAM Jaishankar and discuss our bilateral relationship. Also Read: Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official WION: How will you characterise the relationship between the two countries? Pablo Tettamanti: Officially, we have a strategic association but it goes beyond that. There is a common view of many of the global issues and agenda, and we have same kind of approach too. It has been true in different periods of history, Argentina and India have always had a common vision as to how we believe things have to be solved. There are issues in which we have to find common ground but in general, we have an approach, which is very similar and I think that is the basis. We could see that in discussions. WION: What is the key outcome of dialogue in Delhi? Pablo Tettamanti: We have a series of mechanism that we have to put again, moving on. We will have meetings to discuss this issue but to be more specific, we have already been able to discuss MoUs on mining, which should show results in investments to the benefits of the two sides. We have been discussing how we can improve trade, possibility of cooperation in scientific and technological field, how to respond to Covid, having exchanges, etc. WION: How has been the cooperation to deal with Covid and people-to-people movement? Pablo Tettamanti: We are accepting international travellers who are fully vaccinated. We have been working on similar vaccines, both in India and Argentina. Many people, including myself have received Covishield vaccine so this is something that is naturally recognised. There is paper work, which is normal things, PCR test, etc. But all in all, we are going back to normalisation. In both countries, tourism was hit hard by Covid. But it is also something both countries plan to increase, as it crucial to recovery on economic side. Also Read: India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla says 'carefully' assessing trade ties with China WION: Engagement at multilateral organisations like UN? Pablo Tettamanti: Before Covid and afterwards, we have been talking about multilateralism. We think whole machinery is to be revamped. We have to discuss this. Though there are different views and details have to be somehow put in proportion and see how it works out. We have to work for better United Nations, WTO, etc. We both are members of the G20 and have voiced the concern of the emerging economies. We believe there is a possibility of our points of views being discussed and heard. With India, we have a common approach. WION: Your views on the Indo-Pacific vision? Was there any conversation in Delhi? Pablo Tettamanti: We have been exchanging views on how we can respond to challenges we face. We have seen the common ground, we believe in dialogue, human rights, negations and we need to put terrorism behind us. Realities are different in one region and another. Latin America faces more Pacific situation but approach is the same and we have exchanged views.

Have to work for a better UN, says Argentina's deputy foreign minister during India visit

India could ban all 'private cryptocurrencies' soon. Reports suggest, the centre is planning to table a cryptocurrency bill in the upcoming winter session of the parliament. Palki Sharma gets you the details.

Gravitas: India could ban all private cryptocurrencies soon; Cryptocurrency Bill to be tabled soon?

The PLA recently tested high-altitude weapons that can "take down Indian outposts & military assets". But, how good are the Chinese weapons? Palki Sharma tells you why countries don't want to buy Chinese weapons.

Gravitas: China threatens India with advanced weapons, but how good are Chinese weapons?

The Biden administration has announced the release of strategic oil reserves but the US is not alone here. Joining Washington are India, Japan, South Korea, China, and the UK.

United States: Emergency oil release to lower fuel prices

'India can't have a normal relationship with China, until all border issues with China are resolved,' states foreign secretary Harsh Shringla.

'India can't have a normal relationship with China,' says foreign secretary Harsh Shringla

United States: US plan could strain ties between Washington and Riyadh

India is witnessing a decrease in the new COVID-19 cases, the smallest rise in one-and-a-half years despite huge festival gatherings. India reported 7,579 new coronavirus infections on Tuesday, the lowest in 543 days.

No scientific evidence to support the need of booster shot

Indian and Japanese officials are working their ways to lease national reserves of crude oil in tandem with the US and other major economies. However, the reports suggest that timings of the lease remains unclear.

India, Japan working on oil-stock release

India is witnessing decrease in the new COVID-19 cases. India logged 7,579 new coronavirus infections, the lowest in 543 days, taking the country's total tally of COVID-19 cases to 3,45,26,480.

COVID-19: India sees a decline in new cases

Indian Army chief General MM Naravane recently concluded his first visit to Israel. The visit comes as India and Israel are set to celebrate 30 years of diplomatic ties on January 29 next year.

Indian Army chief visits Israel, discusses border security

Pakistan's acting high commissioner to India Aftab Hasan Khan has termed Indo-Pakistan pilgrimage movement as "good omen" for ties. He had accompanied over 50 Pakistani pilgrims who visited the famous Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi on Monday. The batch was the first such batch of Pakistani pilgrims to visit India since March 2020.

Nizamuddin Dargah| Pilgrims' movement a 'good omen' for India-Pak ties: Aftab Hasan Khan

Backdrop&nbsp;

Unchallenged Xi Jinping with renewed mandate by CCP, during his conversation with US President Joe Biden has tried to create an impression of bipolar world order in existence even as the rest of the world amidst COVID-19 pandemic continues its rebalancing between unipolar, bipolar and multipolar global order as per their perception. &nbsp;

If Beijing has its way, it will use all instruments of power (ethical and unethical) to be sole superpower at global stage and have China-centric Asia at regional stage, for which sub-ordination of India is considered essential. To achieve that the containment plus encirclement (concirclement) of India is a strategic necessity to be able to coerce it to China-centric alignment, preferably without undertaking contact warfare. &nbsp;

Chanakya wisdom that a neighbour with unsettled border can never be a friend seems to have been realised by New Delhi, which has been consistently involved in talkathon with China for decades hoping to have friendly relations. India needs to work out options in all domains in fragile international environment to undertake China challenge to avoid concirclement, preserve its sovereignty and territorial integrity, besides continuing its own march towards becoming a strong pole in global order. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Multidimensional Concirclement of India by China&nbsp;

In absence of any border treaty between independent India and China and non-demarcated LAC, the standoffs will continue. The present one in Eastern Ladakh seems to have run into stalemate, to India’s disadvantage, especially due to shortage of leverages, although India refuses to be coerced to resume business as usual side-lining border or LAC issue and insists on further pull back of PLA from all friction points to lead to de-escalation. China wants to avoid further pull back as it continues building additional infrastructure to upgrade its encroachment into areas, which it was not supposed to occupy as per Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), as permanent settlements. Chinese aim is to label it as settlement of border issue, somewhat in consonance with its 1959/60 claim line in strategically important areas. With occasional intrusions in other areas along LAC, China is trying to increase the economic cost of deployment for India by LOCisation of LAC and stretching out Indian military to seek Sino-centric solution. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The ‘Containment Strategy’ of China includes planned construction of 628 dual use, border defence villages along its own perception of LAC to provide permanency to its claim, enhance its ISR capabilities (some of which have already been made), providing it infrastructure like fibre optic connection, akin to outposts. China can claim that its Land Borders Law passed last month by National People’s Congress is applicable to all countries, but the timing suggests it to be part of containment of India. The law improves coordination between agencies and power to defend increasingly claimed land under garb of national integrity. China’s recent MoU with Bhutan for resolving border issues bilaterally, and allurement of Nepal are also steps towards containment of India. A possible Chinese gain at Doklam through a land swap with Bhutan from other areas can be a serious concern for India due to its proximity to Siliguri Corridor. China has also encroached to make villages in both these countries.&nbsp;

The aggressiveness in &nbsp;‘Encirclement Strategy’ is evident from China delivering – most advanced frigates/warships to Pakistan. Labelled as gift, India must take it as cover plan for deployment of its PLAN combat ships in Pakistan territorial water/Arabian sea, perhaps under Pakistan flag, adding another pearl to its ongoing ‘String of Pearl Strategy’. Gwadar port as part of CPEC, CMEC leading to Bay of Bengal and foothold in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are part of overall encirclement plan of India.&nbsp;

The most worrying part for India is Chinese encroachment in non-contact warfare domain. China’s increasing economic, technological and digital offensive against India and other countries have made them so dependent on China, denting their self-reliance, so that the responses to Chinese unethical encroachment get muted. Chinese strategy of ‘Three Warfare’ namely employing media or public opinion, psychological warfare and legal warfare through display of arsenal, exercises and buying opinions seems to be finding some traction in politically active democracies, election-oriented segments in India to settle their political scores. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Options for India &nbsp;

A serious push in capacity building and infrastructure build up along towards LAC to take on China challenge in recent past is encouraging. The responses have to be in all domains to include contact and non-contact warfare. India needs a change in mindset from reactive to proactive, with additional offensive capability created to demonstrate capacity to encroach into sensitive areas of China, and inflict punitive cost, as China has assumed freedom to encroach anywhere, at will. The asymmetry in CNP between China and India is often cited as an excuse for muting proactive responses, but similar asymmetry exists between Pakistan and India, which doesn’t hesitate in adopting unethical proactive proxy war against India under nuclear hangover. India also has nuclear triad, hence this excuse needs to be revisited. To express the intent, India could make ‘One China Policy’ conditional to One India Policy as Sushma Swaraj mentioned in past.&nbsp;

India needs to formulate its National Security Strategy (NSS), prioritise its challenges and task required by various agencies to develop capacities avoiding different ministries working with different priorities, in silos. It’s frustrating to see PILs against broadening of strategic roads or railways dragging feet to construct strategic railway lines in Arunachal due to lack of commercial viability. Surely part of NSS in open domain may improve sensitivity of all agencies to national security needs, once specified. India should also pass equivalent of Border Defence Law in some form, like strategic infrastructure along border to have different yardstick for speedy clearance by local, regional and central authorities to avoid incidents like environment ministry obstructing many such constructions in past. &nbsp;

In response to Chinese build-up of villages to incrementally change the ground position, it is recommended that States/UT along LAC should allot concessional land to security forces like regional SCOUTS, ITBP, SSB, and families hailing from that area (on son of soil concept), ready to settle in villages so constructed, along own perception of LAC. This will improve inclusive growth, integration, besides proof of our claims on the border, to ward off ‘Chinese Strategy of Incremental Encroachment’. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In response to economic and digital encroachment, India must increasingly draw out a negative import list of all products imported from China, which have been/can be manufactured in India and increasingly ban their imports, as is being done to improve self-reliance in defence manufacturing. It may sound unpleasant to few profit making importers, but will reduce our dependencies and concerns of economic coercion to great extent in long term. It’s absurd to notice India’s trade surplus with China growing beyond its defence budget during standoff period. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Collective naval posturing with like-minded democracies to create multifront situation for China in Indo-Pacific is essential to check Chinese expansionism challenging global order and threatening global commons with steps like China centric Coast Guard Law and Maritime Traffic Safety Law. There is a need for alternative supply chain, trade and technological eco system, independent of China for which some initial steps taken by Quad countries need to be pursued. An alternate infrastructure architecture in the form of B3W, Blue Dot Network and Friendship Highways are essential to save fragile economies getting into debt trap of China through BRI. Collective response against cyber, space, biological threats and nuclear expansion need to be worked out.&nbsp;

India needs to develop its strategic culture with professional strategists, as diplomacy driven patch ups and talkathon have not worked so far. The overall strategic approach has to be proactive at all levels, in all dimensions of warfare.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Backdrop Unchallenged Xi Jinping with renewed mandate by CCP, during his conversation with US President Joe Biden has tried to create an impression of bipolar world order in existence even as the rest of the world amidst COVID-19 pandemic continues its rebalancing between unipolar, bipolar and multipolar global order as per their perception.

Backdrop Unchallenged Xi Jinping with renewed mandate by CCP, during his conversation with US President Joe Biden has tried to create an impression of bipolar world order in existence even as the rest of the world amidst COVID-19 pandemic continues its rebalancing between unipolar, bipolar and multipolar global order as per their perception. If Beijing has its way, it will use all instruments of power (ethical and unethical) to be sole superpower at global stage and have China-centric Asia at regional stage, for which sub-ordination of India is considered essential. To achieve that the containment plus encirclement (concirclement) of India is a strategic necessity to be able to coerce it to China-centric alignment, preferably without undertaking contact warfare. Chanakya wisdom that a neighbour with unsettled border can never be a friend seems to have been realised by New Delhi, which has been consistently involved in talkathon with China for decades hoping to have friendly relations. India needs to work out options in all domains in fragile international environment to undertake China challenge to avoid concirclement, preserve its sovereignty and territorial integrity, besides continuing its own march towards becoming a strong pole in global order. Multidimensional Concirclement of India by China In absence of any border treaty between independent India and China and non-demarcated LAC, the standoffs will continue. The present one in Eastern Ladakh seems to have run into stalemate, to India’s disadvantage, especially due to shortage of leverages, although India refuses to be coerced to resume business as usual side-lining border or LAC issue and insists on further pull back of PLA from all friction points to lead to de-escalation. China wants to avoid further pull back as it continues building additional infrastructure to upgrade its encroachment into areas, which it was not supposed to occupy as per Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), as permanent settlements. Chinese aim is to label it as settlement of border issue, somewhat in consonance with its 1959/60 claim line in strategically important areas. With occasional intrusions in other areas along LAC, China is trying to increase the economic cost of deployment for India by LOCisation of LAC and stretching out Indian military to seek Sino-centric solution. The ‘Containment Strategy’ of China includes planned construction of 628 dual use, border defence villages along its own perception of LAC to provide permanency to its claim, enhance its ISR capabilities (some of which have already been made), providing it infrastructure like fibre optic connection, akin to outposts. China can claim that its Land Borders Law passed last month by National People’s Congress is applicable to all countries, but the timing suggests it to be part of containment of India. The law improves coordination between agencies and power to defend increasingly claimed land under garb of national integrity. China’s recent MoU with Bhutan for resolving border issues bilaterally, and allurement of Nepal are also steps towards containment of India. A possible Chinese gain at Doklam through a land swap with Bhutan from other areas can be a serious concern for India due to its proximity to Siliguri Corridor. China has also encroached to make villages in both these countries. The aggressiveness in ‘Encirclement Strategy’ is evident from China delivering – most advanced frigates/warships to Pakistan. Labelled as gift, India must take it as cover plan for deployment of its PLAN combat ships in Pakistan territorial water/Arabian sea, perhaps under Pakistan flag, adding another pearl to its ongoing ‘String of Pearl Strategy’. Gwadar port as part of CPEC, CMEC leading to Bay of Bengal and foothold in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are part of overall encirclement plan of India. The most worrying part for India is Chinese encroachment in non-contact warfare domain. China’s increasing economic, technological and digital offensive against India and other countries have made them so dependent on China, denting their self-reliance, so that the responses to Chinese unethical encroachment get muted. Chinese strategy of ‘Three Warfare’ namely employing media or public opinion, psychological warfare and legal warfare through display of arsenal, exercises and buying opinions seems to be finding some traction in politically active democracies, election-oriented segments in India to settle their political scores. Options for India A serious push in capacity building and infrastructure build up along towards LAC to take on China challenge in recent past is encouraging. The responses have to be in all domains to include contact and non-contact warfare. India needs a change in mindset from reactive to proactive, with additional offensive capability created to demonstrate capacity to encroach into sensitive areas of China, and inflict punitive cost, as China has assumed freedom to encroach anywhere, at will. The asymmetry in CNP between China and India is often cited as an excuse for muting proactive responses, but similar asymmetry exists between Pakistan and India, which doesn’t hesitate in adopting unethical proactive proxy war against India under nuclear hangover. India also has nuclear triad, hence this excuse needs to be revisited. To express the intent, India could make ‘One China Policy’ conditional to One India Policy as Sushma Swaraj mentioned in past. India needs to formulate its National Security Strategy (NSS), prioritise its challenges and task required by various agencies to develop capacities avoiding different ministries working with different priorities, in silos. It’s frustrating to see PILs against broadening of strategic roads or railways dragging feet to construct strategic railway lines in Arunachal due to lack of commercial viability. Surely part of NSS in open domain may improve sensitivity of all agencies to national security needs, once specified. India should also pass equivalent of Border Defence Law in some form, like strategic infrastructure along border to have different yardstick for speedy clearance by local, regional and central authorities to avoid incidents like environment ministry obstructing many such constructions in past. In response to Chinese build-up of villages to incrementally change the ground position, it is recommended that States/UT along LAC should allot concessional land to security forces like regional SCOUTS, ITBP, SSB, and families hailing from that area (on son of soil concept), ready to settle in villages so constructed, along own perception of LAC. This will improve inclusive growth, integration, besides proof of our claims on the border, to ward off ‘Chinese Strategy of Incremental Encroachment’. In response to economic and digital encroachment, India must increasingly draw out a negative import list of all products imported from China, which have been/can be manufactured in India and increasingly ban their imports, as is being done to improve self-reliance in defence manufacturing. It may sound unpleasant to few profit making importers, but will reduce our dependencies and concerns of economic coercion to great extent in long term. It’s absurd to notice India’s trade surplus with China growing beyond its defence budget during standoff period. Collective naval posturing with like-minded democracies to create multifront situation for China in Indo-Pacific is essential to check Chinese expansionism challenging global order and threatening global commons with steps like China centric Coast Guard Law and Maritime Traffic Safety Law. There is a need for alternative supply chain, trade and technological eco system, independent of China for which some initial steps taken by Quad countries need to be pursued. An alternate infrastructure architecture in the form of B3W, Blue Dot Network and Friendship Highways are essential to save fragile economies getting into debt trap of China through BRI. Collective response against cyber, space, biological threats and nuclear expansion need to be worked out. India needs to develop its strategic culture with professional strategists, as diplomacy driven patch ups and talkathon have not worked so far. The overall strategic approach has to be proactive at all levels, in all dimensions of warfare. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Multidimensional Concirclement of India by China: How is New Delhi preparing? 

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