Epoch of Indian Defense and Security

The fifth lecture of the ongoing Orientation Series,-which is structured every year for the students of B.A in Media Studies and P.G Diploma in Photojournalism and Visual Communication by Centre of Media Studies, IPS, University of Allahabad was by Dr. Prashant Agrawal, Associate Professor, Defense Department , University of Allahabad and prominent defense expert. The program started with welcome words by Dhananjai Chopra, Course Coordinator, Centre of Media Studies followed by the lecture. 

The topic for the lecture was ‘Emerging Challenges of Indian Security: past, present and future’. Dr. Agrawal started by articulating eon of Indian security and defense. 

In this format he put in the picture the historical perspectives like non existence of India as nation-state, no well defined area, economy, population, rule of law, governance, sovereignty etc, concept of kingdom was exist, military power was the main measurement to maintain kingdom, role of traditions and religion important, image of soft, wealthy, peace loving and traditionalist nation. 

Afterwards he enlightens that from Vedic period to the present the strategic thinking was based on defensive approach: peace keeping, peace making and peace building. After I-C war the theory of idolism seems off beam and realism proper.

Moreover, he thrashed out the present perspective like the disputed areas of our country. Azad Kashmir or P.O.K region, Aksai China area and parts of Arunachal Pradesh which comes under disputed areas were thrown into light. 

The 1971 war was a testing ground for the two super powers. Pakistan interference in world became grand after Islamic Bomb was developed. Additionally he stated many cram and facts regarding different wars we fought with Pakistan and China. He also reflected the relation with chief countries regarding our defense policies and strategies. 

Afterwards, Dr. Agrawal started illuminating the later part of the lecture which focused on the future perspective and challenges for Indian security and defense. Governance should be strong. We should find the root cause of maoist attacks to put an end to it. The pathway of uneven development should be replaced to even. We should build rail line till the tip of north-east. We should combat regional terrorism.  He concluded by stating that there is an immediate need to chip in performing certain steps that would not only make us developed but also inclusive. After the lecture Dr. Agrawal answered certain questions raised by the students. The program ended with vote of thanks by the Course Coordinator of the Centre. The C.M of the centre was also present.  

Prateek Pathak

Student

B.A in Media Studies

University of Allahabad