The Winter Edition 2024 of Strategic Perspectives examines pressing strategic issues, focusing on South Asian security concerns and broader global challenges. This issue includes five key papers: one on the growing militarization of Indian space capabilities, another one addressing non-traditional security concerns with a focus on Africa’s demographic challenges, a third on the India’s Nuclear Security Architecture, a fourth on the India’s development of Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs), and a final paper on the abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A in Jammu and Kashmir.
The first paper, “India’s Evolving Space Militarization, and Security Implications for Pakistan,” investigates India’s advancements in space militarization, including the development of anti-satellite capabilities. This shift in military strategy poses significant security challenges for Pakistan, influencing the need for a comprehensive defense strategy to counter potential threats emanating from space-based military technologies. The second paper features on broader global security concerns with “Africa’s Demographic Timebomb: Implications for National Security in the Twenty-first Century.” This paper highlights the challenges posed by Africa’s rapidly growing youth population, which threatens to outpace the continent’s economic development. The study calls for urgent policy interventions focusing on empowerment, employment, and education to avert the demographic crisis that could destabilize the region. The third paper, “Assessment of Indian Nuclear Security Architecture,” critically examines India’s nuclear security framework amidst growing concerns over recent security breaches. The paper scrutinizes India’s nuclear infrastructure and management systems, identifying key vulnerabilities. It also offers recommendations to strengthen nuclear security to mitigate risks for both India and the broader region, which is home to two nuclear-armed neighbors. The fourth paper, “Role of Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) in Shaping the Future of Warfare in South Asia” explores the strategic significance of DEWs in the South Asian security environment. As force multipliers, these weapons are set to transform modern warfare, with India’s development of DEWs likely compelling Pakistan to pursue similar capabilities. The paper discusses the implications for regional security and strategic stability, highlighting how these technologies will affect the military balance in South Asia. The fifth paper, “Abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A: Policy Options for Pakistan,” examines the profound consequences of India’s decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. This move has destabilized the region and escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. The paper outlines potential policy responses for Pakistan, focusing on diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict and restoring stability.
This issue provides crucial insights into South Asian strategic dynamics and global security trends, offering valuable perspectives for scholars, policymakers, and analysts alike.