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Posted: May 28 2007
The news about India in the developed countries is mostly about offshoring, and the rise of its economy. But in Ganguly's book, this is only a secondary issue. It deals primarily with the possibilities of armed conflict and nuclear weaponry. A more "traditional" political discourse, perhaps. The flashpoints are covered. The open sore of Kashmir, with the tacit support of Pakistan fueling a local seccessionist insurgency. Related is the nature of India-Pakistan relations, fraught with the possibility of a limited nuclear war. Limited not necessarily in the sense of restraint by either nation, but by the primitive nature of their nukes and delivery systems. Though here, both are undoubtedly addressing these shortcomings. One danger is that the covert Pakistani support of the Kashmiri insurgents might spiral out of control into a full war. Another reason for India's nuclear arsenal is studied. As a counterweight to China's arsenal and to China's growing defense budget. The ending of the Cold War led to the diminution of relations between India and Russia. But the possibility of improved relations on a strategic basis is looked at. No longer the Cold War ideologies that would drive such changes. On a lesser note, perhaps, there is a short discussion of India's relationships with France and Israel. The latter countries see India as a vast market for their technological offerings. Some elements in Israel also perceive a natural strategic linkup with Hindu nativists. Both opposing militant Islamists in their regions.
