It is difficult to see any change in the Chinese attitude even if Chinese communism heals the great schism between it and the Russian communism, which indeed is highly problematical. Although the commitment of the super powers to maintain stability and peace in West Asia and in South East Asia would appear to reduce the danger of a nuclear war, there are serious limitations as far as prevention of conventional armed conflicts between nations in this region is concerned. The reason is simple. Some nations are not satisfied with the status-quo, for whatever reasons.
In this situation there can be no escape for India from a continuous building up of her armed strength. No security plan will ever deter Pakistan from adventurous action if such action seems to promise the realisation of her ambition in Jammu & Kashmir. Our defence preparedness has to take into account the rapid technological changes in the production of modern sophisticated weapons. A great deal has been done in reorienting our armed forces to the changing requirements. However, much remains to be done. Even more needs to be done to develop indigenous skills so that our dependence on great Powers is reduced as quickly as possible. What we really need is a massive application of indigenous science and technology to our defence. With all this, the concept of a large land army is not obsolete. It must not be forgotten that for a long time to come the pattern of conventional warfare in areas of the world will not undergo any basic qualitative change. Therefore, any defence thinking, which would emphasise mere technology at the expense of numbers and morale will prove inadequate.
But should we be satisfied with greater refinement of conventional weapons, however sophisticated they may be? Is there a case for equipping our armed forces with atomic warheads? I think the demand for nuclear capability for the armed forces is misconceived. Fundamentally it is misconceived because India, as a nation, has no aggressive designs. Our aim is to keep intact the territorial integrity of India. This sets the framework of the strategy. In this field then we need no new strategy but a vigorous emphasis on armaments and equipment. Also a certain long range policy orientation to take advantage of the developing situation in Asia in our relationship with China. I have no doubt that any progress towards a solution of the problems between China and India, consistent with our self-respect and national interest, would be to the advantage of both the countries where such a great deal needs to be done for the social and economic betterment of the people.
