Recent events have brought national security, economic resilience, and diplomatic strategy into sharp focus. While emotions run high, India must approach the evolving situation with wisdom, foresight, and a collective commitment to long-term national stability. Throughout history, India’s strategic decisions, rather than impulsive reactions, have defined its strength. At this crucial juncture, shared responsibility, national unity, and economic growth must remain the priority.

Having personally witnessed all wars between India and Pakistan, including the Kargil War, besides these tremulous 35 years of death and destruction, I understand the immense suffering endured by civilians in times of conflict. War—whether short-term or prolonged—rarely delivers desired results without severe consequences. While a long war may exhaust adversaries, India must recognize that every conflict brings costs—human, economic, and strategic.

Strategic Diplomacy Over Reactionary Measures

India stands at a decisive historical moment, where its economic ambitions, geopolitical strategies, and security preparedness are tested by external pressures. As is projected, the nation progresses toward a 5-trillion-dollar economic milestone, adversarial forces attempt to slow its rise through trade blockades, diplomatic constraints, and security challenges. India has one immediate strong competitor China the war is definitely going to favour China in terms of gaining more weight.
While national security must never be compromised, not every provocation demands direct confrontation. True strategic strength lies in foresight, economic resilience, and diplomatic wisdom rather than reactionary measures.
Moreover, India must maintain its focus on the Indo-China border, where geopolitical complexities cannot be ignored. China has explicitly stated that it would support Pakistan in the event of a sovereignty breach. This reality reinforces the need for measured, calculated engagement, ensuring India does not shift focus from its broader national security priorities.

A Centerpiece for Inclusive Solutions

Kashmir has long borne the brunt of geopolitical conflicts, suffering economic disruptions and security instability. A sustainable solution must prioritize the voices of Kashmiris, integrating their aspirations into broader peace efforts. Civil society, grassroots movements, and diplomatic channels must be empowered to craft solutions beyond military equations, reinforcing India’s commitment to just and equitable governance. That will not be judged by words but by actions. But the post Pahalgam reactions against Kashmiris, students and business class in rest of the country has disheartened every Kashmiri. This is surely going to enhance the trust deficit and further alienate people from being part of mainstream. The souls will be permanently divided as we have been tasting as a result of migration of Kashmiri pandit brethren in 1989-90.
Solidarity with Leadership, Shared Execution of Responsibility

During national crises, solidarity with leadership is essential, ensuring that the government can take appropriate action to protect sovereignty and stability. However, responsibility must be shared across institutions—from policymakers to security forces—to guarantee that decisions lead to impactful outcomes rather than prolonged instability.
A key example of effective leadership delegation is Prime Minister Modi’s approach—allowing the armed forces to determine when, where, and how to act, while he remains free to handle broader national priorities in Bihar, Mumbai, Delhi and Kerala. Politicians have to see the constituency while as Military has to keep in mind the service to the country .Military strategists on both sides understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, making operational decisions a matter best left to the brave fighters rather than political pressures.

Economic Strength

India’s global rise is deeply tied to its economic, technological, and industrial advancements. Sustaining growth, expanding trade networks, and leading digital revolutions must remain central to national strategy. The benifits must reach to every individual of the society that is the real growth.
Historical evidence shows that economically resilient nations—such as post-war Germany, Japan, and South Korea—strengthened their influence through industry and innovation rather than constant warfare. India must follow this path, recognizing that economic mastery is its most powerful safeguard against adversarial forces whether external or internal.

The Media’s Responsibility

A disturbing trend during crises is the media’s role in fueling public outrage rather than informed discourse. Following the Pahalgam attack, several news channels immediately launched "war room" presentations, creating divisive narratives rather than promoting strategic reasoning.
Sensationalism has the potential to misguide national sentiment, escalating conflict rather than encouraging wisdom, restraint, and calculated response. Responsible journalism must prevail—the media should serve as a platform for informed debate, not one that fans the flames of emotional rhetoric.

Balancing Strength with Wisdom

India must remain fully prepared to defend its sovereignty, yet every response must be strategic, well-timed, and aligned with long-term national interests. Stability inclusive of all is to be focused through strong inclusive governance, diplomatic excellence, and economic resilience.
A sustainable national strategy requires a holistic approach and utmost priority over political ambitions, integrating security, diplomacy, economic strength of all, and global partnerships. As India continues its rise, its future must be shaped by progress, not hostility—by building, not breaking.
True national power lies not just in securing borders but in fostering innovation, wisdom, and unity.

Email:--------------------------------shamshadkralwari@gmail.com