Today in History ( January 6th,1947)
6 January 1947 – The All-India Congress Committee accepted the Partition of India.
Summary of Today’s News
The outlook for India in the year ahead
(by M.K. Narayanan) a former Director, Intelligence Bureau, a former National Security Adviser, and a former Governor of West Bengal.
India’s Current Position:
o India is experiencing significant economic growth and political stability.
o The country maintains a peaceful atmosphere amidst global economic and geopolitical shifts.
o India is becoming part of new economic and political groupings.
Global Political Uncertainty (2024):
o 2024 saw political instability across the world.
o Multiple conflicts, especially in Europe and West Asia, threaten global peace and stability.
o Major crises included the ongoing Gaza situation and the Ukraine conflict.
India’s Success in Geopolitical Navigation:
o India has navigated these global tensions effectively, avoiding direct involvement in conflicts.
Challenges Ahead (2025):
o 2025 may bring new challenges, requiring careful handling by Indian policymakers.
o Ancient Chinese saying: “The wind sweeping through the tower heralds a rising storm in the mountain,” suggests the potential for trouble ahead.
India-China Relations:
o Despite disengagement at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, the border conflict remains unresolved.
o A formal meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping occurred after five years.
o China’s security cooperation with the Global South nations could challenge India’s influence.
o China’s diplomatic moves at forums like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit have strengthened its position.
South Asia Dynamics:
o India’s influence in South Asia is waning, with Bangladesh’s shift towards an anti-India caretaker regime.
o Nepal and Sri Lanka are seen as “fair weather friends,” and Bhutan is balancing ties with China.
o Pakistan remains hostile, and Afghanistan’s role in India’s strategy is limited.
West Asia Developments:
o Syria’s political changes, especially the ousting of the Assad regime, are significant for India’s interests.
o The rise of the Sunni group Hayat Tahir al Shams (HTS) and its potential impact on the region.
o The broader regional shift may affect Iran’s influence, Israel, and the pro-Palestine movement.
o Israel and Türkiye are expected to benefit from these shifts.
o Russia’s influence in the region is reduced, but its relations with Türkiye could help regain some ground.
Digital Threats and Cybersecurity:
o The digital threat is expected to rise exponentially in 2025.
o Cyber attacks against India’s companies and government institutions have increased in recent years.
o National infrastructure is increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, requiring urgent attention.
Conclusion:
o While 2024 was marked by global political uncertainty, 2025 demands strategic handling by India to address both geopolitical and digital security challenges.
