IDSA Comments

Manipur Blockade: A Tale of Vested Political Interests and Exclusivist Narratives

Only social cohesion and determination by local communities to bring about peace can realistically tide over vested political interests and narrow destructive narratives that seem to be informing the present crisis between Manipur and Nagaland.

The Strategic Relevance of Okinawa

Notwithstanding popular criticism and opposition, the US-Japan security alliance and the presence of USFJ remain vital to Japanese foreign and security policies.

Foreign Policy and Domestic Challenges before Kan Naoto

Getting the economy back on track would be Kan’s top most priority. Kan views ties with the US as the core of Japan’s foreign policy, though he also greatly values the relationship with China.

China’s String of Pearls and India’s Enduring Tactical Advantage

Not only would the presence of Chinese vessels present no real existential threat to Indian naval dominance in the region, it would also, paradoxically, provide the Indian Navy with a far greater degree of tactical flexibility in the event of a future conflict with China, be it on land or at sea.

Engaging Pakistan: Shift in the Post-Mumbai Posture

Engaging Pakistan would reduce tension between the two countries, deflect international pressure on India to resume the dialogue, and ensure that Pakistan does not have an excuse to divert its troops from the Western border.

Darfur and enhancing India’s peacekeeping profile

Peacekeeping is India’s forte, not only because of its military’s professionalism but also due to its political acceptability globally. India’s image as a benign rising power can be exploited and enhanced in raising its peacekeeping profile.

Ali Ahmed
June 07, 2010
IDSA Comments

Fluidity in Japanese Politics

Hatoyama’s downfall was primarily brought about by his failure to fulfil the pre-election promise to relocate the US Marine Corps Air Station in Futenma outside of Okinawa prefecture.

The “Cheonan” Fallout: Erosion of Confidence

The Cheonan assault has revealed to South Korea that the threat from North Korea is still ominous and capable of delivering unexpected damage.

Preeti Nalwa
June 07, 2010
IDSA Comments

Escalation of Tensions in the Korean Peninsula and China’s Role

The one country that has not condemned North Korea’s role in the sinking of the Cheonan is China, which has its own strategic and economic compulsions to back North Korea.

Why Coal Matters in India?

Issues pertaining to coal mafias, coal unions and its politics ought to be addressed if any meaningful reforms or cuts in coal consumption are to be made.