Former Lieutenant General HS Panag has warned that India must prepare for potential future conflicts with Pakistan and China. He suggested increasing the defense budget to 4% of the GDP.
Business News: Former Lieutenant General HS Panag has cautioned that India may face another conflict with Pakistan within the next 5 to 10 years. He stated that Pakistan is preparing for this with China's support. Panag believes that India should significantly improve its military capabilities in light of this potential threat, and to achieve this, the defense budget should be increased to 4% of the GDP.
Is Pakistan Preparing for Another Conflict?
Former Lieutenant General HS Panag recently issued a serious warning that India should be prepared for another future conflict with Pakistan. He claimed that this time, Pakistan may instigate a war-like situation not alone, but with the backing of China. He expressed this view in an article published in ‘The Print’.
According to him, India may face heightened border tensions and conflict again within the next 5 to 10 years. Therefore, India must strengthen its defense preparations now.
Strained Relations After Operation Sindur
Following the recent Pulwama terrorist attack, the Indian Army launched 'Operation Sindur'. This operation neutralized several terrorist bases, further escalating border tensions between India and Pakistan. In response, Pakistan launched drone attacks on India, but the Indian defense system successfully neutralized them in time.
Increased Defense Budget is Necessary
General Panag believes that India should double its defense budget. He suggested increasing the current defense budget, which is approximately 2% of the GDP, to 4%. This would enable India to provide a swift and effective military response in critical situations.
Need for Changes in Military Structure
Panag clarified that merely increasing the budget will not suffice. India needs to strategically and technologically revamp its entire military structure. This includes adopting new technologies, developing Artificial Intelligence (AI), drone technology, cybersecurity, and advanced weaponry. He emphasized that future wars will not be fought solely with conventional weapons; technology will be the deciding factor.
China-Pakistan Alliance: A Double Threat for India
Panag claims that the China-Pakistan alliance poses a serious security threat to India. While China strategically attempts to undermine India, Pakistan continually strives to destabilize India.
He stated, “Pakistan, with China's support, is preparing for another conflict. Although this may take 5 to 10 years, we must prepare beforehand to avoid being caught off guard.”
Pakistan's Limited Capabilities
Panag also pointed out that Pakistan's economic situation limits its military capabilities. Pakistan's GDP is approximately $373 billion, significantly less than India's. Therefore, Pakistan cannot wage a major war alone, but in conjunction with China, it could pose a significant threat.
