Commentary
Find our newspaper columns, blogs, and other commentary pieces in this section. Our research focuses on Advanced Biology, High-Tech Geopolitics, Strategic Studies, Indo-Pacific Studies & Economic Policy
The Indian Express | India-China border agreement: Five reasons to be cautiously optimistic
By Manoj Kewalramani
The announcement is just the first step in a long process of normalisation of the situation along the boundary areas. For starters, the agreement needs to be implemented on the ground, with patrolling becoming normalised
By Manoj Kewalramani
Read the full article here.
Australian Strategic Policy Institute | What we can tell from China’s ICBM test
By Anushka Saxena
China’s decision to test an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean on 25 September was unusual—but not very unusual, because the country has similarly tested shorter-range ballistic missiles over a variety of geographies.
By Anushka Saxena
Read the full article here.
The Diplomat | Beijing’s Potential Retaliation Looms as EU Approves Chinese EV Tariffs
By Rakshith Shetty
China will attempt to punish the states that held firm on the tariffs, while sparing those that switched positions.
By Rakshith Shetty
Read the full article here.
The Print | India should steer clear of an ‘Asian NATO’. Its strategic flexibility is at stake
By Yusuf T. Unjhawala
Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba’s proposal for an Asian NATO stems from his belief that the absence of a collective defence alliance could lead to wars. It’s a step too far for India.
By Yusuf T. Unjhawala
Read the full article here.
Nikkei Asia | China isn't ready to shift to a consumption-driven economy
By Amit Kumar
Investment-led export-oriented approach has acquired further salience under Xi
By Amit Kumar
Read the full article here.
Money Control | Quad, through Chinese lens
By Manoj Kewalramani
Chinese opinions on the Quad converge on one point, that it’s a US-led tool of containment. However, there are mixed opinions on the effectiveness of the wider Quad agenda. On India, Chinese portrayal depicts the country as an opportunistic and wavering partner of the US
By Manoj Kewalramani
Read the full article here.
The Indian Express | In Japan, the race to replace an unpopular leadership
By Vanshika Saraf
With departure of Fumio Kishida, ruling Liberal Democratic Party has the opportunity to reset its image and address public dissatisfaction
By Vanshika Saraf
Read the full article here.
Stimson Center | India Must Match China’s Speedy Moves in Bangladesh’s New Political Landscape
By Rakshith Shetty
Despite its misgivings toward the BNP and the JeI, India has little option today than to engage with these political forces. India benefited immensely over the last several years from its friendship with Hasina and the Awami League. But with new political forces rising in the aftermath of Hasina’s ouster, India will risk getting locked out and losing influence in Bangladesh if it continues to be perceived as an ally only to Hasina.
By Rakshith Shetty
Read the full article here.
The Diplomat | Powerplay in the Pacific: A Little Competition Doesn’t Hurt
By Vanshika Saraf
From policing assistance to digital infrastructure, strategic competition has led to better terms and more options for the Pacific Island nations.
By Vanshika Saraf
Read the full article here.
The Hindu | Power asymmetry between China and Russia
By Amit Kumar
As supplies from Moscow’s traditional partners have dried up under sanctions and Russia’s domestic capacity remains stretched, China has stepped up to help its friend. Compared to 2021, when high-priority goods from China accounted for 32% of Russia’s import needs, China’s share soared to 89% in 2023
By Amit Kumar
Read the full article here.
The Hindu | Perils of decentralisation with Chinese characteristics
By Pranay Kotasthane & Manoj Kewalramani
Decentralisation, once celebrated as a reason for China’s economic miracle, seems to have now turned counter-productive
By Pranay Kotasthane & Manoj Kewalramani
Read the full article here.
NDTV | India And China May Finally Be Warming Up To Each Other
By Manoj Kewalramani
It's not a thaw yet, but there are certainly signs of some warming in the India-China relationship. Of late, there has been an uptick in dialogue to resolve outstanding issues along two friction points in Eastern Ladakh. At the same time, there is a fresh debate underway within India on economic engagement with China
By Manoj Kewalramani
Read the full article here.
Nikkei Asia | It's time for India to unleash private investment in nuclear energy
By Saurabh Todi
New Delhi must break bureaucratic silos to allow sector to flourish.
By Saurabh Todi
Read the full article here.
The Hindu | The continuing churn in the Chinese military
By Anushka Saxena
The changes in the military leadership have shown up the faultlines in the reform vision
By Anushka Saxena
Read the full article here.
The Diplomat | China Will Generate More Nuclear Power Than Both France and the United States by 2030
By Rakshith Shetty
China’s rapid build-up of nuclear reactors is expected to see it top the global standings.
By Rakshith Shetty
Read the full article here.
The Diplomat | The US Can Accelerate India’s Rise as a Legacy Chip Hub
By Satya Sahu and Amit Kumar
Friendshoring supply chains for legacy chips to countries like India is likely the most feasible long-term solution for the West in the face of China’s dominance.
By Satya Sahu and Amit Kumar
Read the full article here.
First Post | South China Sea: How growing Chinese assertiveness finds strong Philippine response
By Anushka Saxena
Beijing must prepare to face a vehement and assertive Manila, which can no longer be manipulated by a simple carrots and sticks approach.
By Anushka Saxena
Read the full article here.
The Diplomat | New Regulations Seek to Address Chinese Military Veterans’ Concerns
By Anushka Saxena
China’s military veterans have organized a long line of protests against low pensions and corruption. Will the latest changes finally assuage their complaints?
By Anushka Saxena
Read the full article here.
Nikkei Asia | India is well placed to become the 'next China' and drive global growth
By Amit Kumar
Nation faces opportunities and challenges in becoming an economic powerhouse
Read the full article here.