Downstream from the war in Ukraine

It implies that India needs to enhance military spending

Before the war, India was navigating a difficult geopolitical landscape with the Chinese threat. Russia has been a source of strength in Indian military and foreign policy, but the war in Ukraine has diminished Russia. It has brought China and Russia closer, which is problematic for India.

While there are pathways to shore up India's position, the basic fact is that the problems on the border have worsened. We are ordinarily extremely cautious in proposing government expenditure, but we suggest that this is a time for India to increase defence expenditure for a couple of years, perhaps by a percentage point of gross domestic product (GDP) each year.

The war in Ukraine has important consequences for India in the spheres of foreign policy, technology, military affairs, and economics. On August 1 in Pune, a conference on this subject was organised by the Pune International Centre, Takshashila Institution, and XKDR Forum. This event featured vigorous and frank debates on these important questions and made us contemplate.

Russia has been an important partner to India in the spheres of foreign policy and weapons. A facet that is not widely acknowledged is that this dependence has helped to keep Indian military expenses down as Russian equipment is cheaper. Russia has consistently supported India when faced with difficulties at the UN Security Council and other forums.

The war in Ukraine has weakened India's position in three ways. The first problem is that of military equipment. The sanctions against Russian organisations hamper their access to global technology.