#SecurityScan 38: India's fight against China’s Global Media

https://www.newsbharati.com/Encyc/2023/4/16/NB-Security-Scan-Epi-38.html 

Leading a high-ranking delegation to New Delhi at the invitation of National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Vietnam"s Minister of Public Security General To Lam spent two days in the Indian capital at the start of this week.

This article is a summary of important events that have taken place in last one week affecting, India's national security.

 COUNTERING CHINESE MULTI DOMAIN WAR 

How to Fight Back Against China’s Global Media and Information Offensive

Beijing has acquired control of both the traditional media sector and innovative communication technologies.

These include Beijing’s global expansion of its state media outlets like Xinhua, its network China Global Television Network (CGTN), as well as its increasing control of all Chinese-language media around the world, including in virtually every European country where there are Chinese-language media outlets.

In addition to the traditional media sector, Beijing has built information “pipes” like 5G networks and undersea cables in the information space. It has also expanded its more sophisticated use of disinformation on social media platforms and relies on increasingly popular social media platforms like TikTok, WeChat, and other tools.

Policymakers in many regions in Europe—are beginning to recognize the threat of Beijing’s expanding media, information, and traditional influence actions. But more coordination and decisive action are needed.

 Shipping Lines Are Getting Worried About Over Dependence on China 

In February, shipping giant Maersk took possession of a new cargo vessel, one that can meet the International Maritime Organization’s requirements for zero-emission shipping. That’s the good news. The bad news? The Maersk Biscayne was built by the Jiangsu New Yangzi shipyard in China, where Maersk has several more ships waiting to be built. Shipping companies are discovering that they’re far too dependent on Chinese shipyards, at a time when the rapid downward spiral of China’s relationship with the West could have calamitous effects.

 Western countries’ building shipyards will take a lot of time, and a lot of money, to restore to anything close to what’s needed. For long time most countries in the world would be dependent for the shipping requirement on China which, is very dangerous proposition.

China is its own worst enemy 

Xi’s belligerence prompts classic balancing, an alignment among smaller states that would alone struggle to compete. Beijing’s behaviour, particularly its economic coercion against crucial Australian industries such as wine, barley and coal, has merely reinforced the idea throughout Australia’s politics that Beijing is no longer a reliable partner. Same is a case in South East Asia. 

China's Overseas Ports Acquisition Program 

China is a powerhouse in global trade. Its rapid growth has been significantly fuelled by decades of rising exports, bringing new emphasis to the role ports play in trade and strategic relations.

Overseas port investments and potentially military base access, particularly in countries of global and geostrategic importance near maritime chokepoints, could give China greater influence over key supply chain networks. 

Don’t Look Away from China’s Atrocities Against the Uyghurs

 Ramzan fast has been banned for Chinese Uygur Muslims While atrocity crimes — and the pursuit for accountability — in Ukraine have dominated global attention in the last year, momentum has continued to build in seeking accountability for China’s crimes against the Uyghurs and other minority groups. Most of this progress has been made at the state level, including legal cases under the principle of universal jurisdiction, atrocity determinations finding that genocide and crimes against humanity are ongoing, and efforts to exclude Chinese goods made with forced labor from domestic markets. Although this momentum has been slow and not without setbacks, it has also been steady, strengthening the record of Beijing’s crimes against the Uyghurs and the overall case for accountability.

Promoting the RMB Will Limit, but not Quash, China’s Vulnerability to US Currency Sanctions

China, the world’s second largest economy, and Saudi Arabia, the world’s pivotal oil producer, have been in talks to promote greater use of the RMB in oil deals, while China and Brazil recently agreed to transact bilateral trade in their own currencies, sidestepping the dollar.

The push for greater use of the renminbi in its foreign trade reflects Beijing’s desire to limit its geo-economic vulnerability vis-à-vis Washington, particularly for critical imports, such as oil.

 

M 777-भारतीय आर्मीची ताकद वाढणार -; फक्त मृत्यू बरसतात या नव्या भारतीय त...

भारतीय आर्मीची ताकद वाढणार -; फक्त मृत्यू बरसतात या नव्या भारतीय तोफा 14 APR 23

I was tasked to speak on Geo political,defence and security challenges facing the Global South countries. Research paper presented by me in this seminar

https://www.newsbharati.com/Encyc/2023/4/11/Navigating-Geo-Political-Security.html 

The following paragraphs discuss these challenges in detail and provide practical solutions for addressing them.

 

Security Challenges Faced By Countries Of South And Central America

Security Challenges Faced By Island Nations Of Indo Pacific/Oceania

Security Challenges Faced By African Countries.

Action Plan & Summary of Recommendations

Security Challenges Faced By Countries Of South And Central America

 

 

The South and Central American countries encounter various security challenges, including:

 

 

Political instability: Weak institutions, corruption, and authoritarian regimes often result in human rights violations, political violence, and lack of accountability.

 

Transnational organized crime: These nations frequently serve as transit points for drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other illegal activities, which can erode democratic institutions, rule of law, and social stability. Gang violence can also lead to high levels of violence, corruption, and intimidation.

 

Drug trafficking: Latin American countries are major producers and exporters of illicit drugs like cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. Well-funded and well-armed drug trafficking organizations wield significant influence and can perpetuate issues such as corruption, violence, and insecurity.

 

Terrorism: While the threat of terrorism in the region is relatively low, smaller countries could be targeted by terrorist groups seeking to establish a presence or carry out attacks.

 

Cyber security: Smaller countries in the region may have weaker cybersecurity infrastructure, making them more susceptible to cyber attacks.

 

Border security: Smaller countries in the region may have porous borders, leaving them vulnerable to cross-border crime, smuggling, and trafficking.

 

 

Recommended Countermeasures

 

 

To mitigate security challenges, Latin American countries can adopt a multi-pronged strategy, including:

Enhancing law enforcement and intelligence capabilities: To tackle drug trafficking, organized crime, and gang violence, countries can augment their law enforcement and intelligence capabilities.

 

Combating corruption: Corruption undermines security efforts. Governments can promote transparency, strengthen institutions, and ensure accountability for leaders and government officials.

 

Promoting regional cooperation: Countries can collaborate regionally to bolster security, such as through intelligence sharing, joint operations, and border security.

 

Investing in social programs: Smaller countries can invest in social programs that reduce poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. These programs can diminish the appeal of criminal and extremist groups and provide alternatives to joining gangs.

 

Improving border security: Countries can strengthen their border security infrastructure to reduce the flow of illegal goods and people across their borders.

 

Strengthening cyber security: Countries can invest in improving their cyber security infrastructure to reduce the risk of cyber attacks.

 

Overall, a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of insecurity, promotes cooperation, and strengthens institutions and law enforcement capabilities is needed to tackle security challenges in Latin America and promote greater security and stability in the region.

 

SECURITY CHALLENGES FACED BY ISLAND NATIONS OF INDO PACIFIC

 

 

Countering Chinese Political Warfare

 

 

To counter China's political warfare tactics in the Pacific, it is important for the democratic world to take a comprehensive approach that addresses economic, political, and social factors. This can be achieved by:

 

Strengthening economic partnerships: China uses economic engagement as a powerful tool to exert influence over island states. The democratic world can counter this by providing economic assistance, increasing trade and investment, and developing infrastructure in the region. This will create alternative sources of funding and development for Pacific states, reducing their reliance on China.

 

Supporting democratic governance: China often targets weak and corrupt governments in the Pacific, using financial incentives to gain political support. To counter this, the democratic world can support democratic governance in the region, promote transparency and accountability, and help build effective government institutions. This will challenge China's narrative that authoritarianism is a better form of governance.

 

Strengthening defense cooperation: The democratic world can work with Pacific states to enhance their defense capabilities through joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and equipment transfers. This will help to build resilience against China's influence and aggression.

 

Countering disinformation: China uses disinformation campaigns to influence public opinion in the Pacific. To counter this, the democratic world can provide accurate and timely information, support independent media outlets, and promote media literacy.

 

Building people-to-people ties: The democratic world can build stronger people-to-people ties with Pacific states through educational and cultural exchanges, tourism, and sports diplomacy. This will foster goodwill and understanding between nations, making it harder for China to exploit regional tensions.

 

Overall, countering China's political warfare in the Pacific requires a sustained and comprehensive effort. By building responsible and effective partnerships with Pacific states and offering a compelling alternative to China's engagement, the democratic world can weaken China's influence and ensure greater stability and security in the region.

 

In addition to the above Oceania countries in the Global South face numerous defense and security challenges that require attention. These challenges include:

 

Climate change: With rising sea levels, more frequent and intense storms, and coral bleaching, Oceania countries are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. These effects can have severe consequences on national security, including displacement of populations, infrastructure damage, and disputes over resources.

 

Maritime security: Due to their extensive maritime territories, Oceania countries face various security threats such as piracy, illegal fishing, and transnational crime.

 

Territorial disputes: Some Oceania countries face ongoing territorial disputes, particularly regarding maritime boundaries, which can cause tensions and potential conflicts.

 

Cybersecurity: As Oceania countries increasingly rely on digital technology, they become more exposed to cyber threats, including hacking, data breaches, and attacks on critical infrastructure.

https://www.newsbharati.com/Encyc/2023/4/11/Navigating-Geo-Political-Security.html

C-20 NATIONAL SEMINAR IMPHAL, MANIPUR GLOBAL SOUTH CHALLENGES GEOPOLITIC...

To enhance the security of Global South countries, a Security Action Plan should prioritize capacity-building for their military forces, strengthening institutional and legal frameworks, promoting regional cooperation, and enhancing international partnerships. It is critical to strike a balance of interests and promote cooperation among nations to ensure that everyone benefits as a united community. India is committed to pursuing this objective during the G-20/C-20 conferences scheduled for 2023.

 

Common challenges

•      Counter terrorism cooperation.

•      Cyber security cooperation.

•      Improving border security.

•      Strengthening Law Enforcement:

•      Supply Chains

चीनी अतिक्रमण , घूसखोरी को रोकने के लिए सीमा पर व्हायब्रंट व्हिलेज प्रोग...

सुईच्या टोकाएवढाही भारताचा भूभाग कोणी घेऊ शकत नाही

केंद्रीय गृहमंत्री अमित शाह यांनी चीनला ठणकावले

 भारतावर आक्रमण करून भूभाग बळकाविण्याचे दिवस गेले. भारताच्या सीमा आता सुरक्षित असून सुईच्या टोकाएवढाही भूभाग कोणी घेऊ शकत नाही, अशी शब्दात केंद्रीय गृह आणि सहकार मंत्री अमित शाह यांनी अरूणाचल प्रदेश येथे बोलताना चीनला ठणकावले आहे.

केंद्र सरकारच्या व्हायब्रंट व्हिलेजेस कार्यक्रमाचा प्रारंभ अरूणाचल प्रदेशातील सीमावर्ती किबीथू या गावापासून करण्यात आला. यावेळी केंद्रीय गृहमंत्री अमित शाह म्हणाले, भारताचे धोरण स्पष्ट आहे. भारताला शांतता हवी असून त्यासाठी केंद्र सरकार कटिबद्ध आहे. कोणीही यावे आणि भारताचा भूभाग बळकावून टाकावा, हे दिवस आता गेले. आता परिस्थिती बदलली असून देशाच्या सीमा अतिशय सुरक्षित आहेत. सीमेची सुरक्षा हीच राष्ट्राची सुरक्षा आणि सैन्य व सीमेच्या सन्मानाशी शून्य तडजोड, हे मोदी सरकारचे धोरण आहे. त्यामुळे भारताची सुईच्या टोकाएवढीही जमीन आता कोणी बळकवू शकत नाही, असे ते म्हणाले.

काँग्रेसवर निशाणा साधत अमित शहा म्हणाले, २०१४ पूर्वी संपूर्ण ईशान्य भारताचा प्रदेश हा समस्याग्रस्त भाग म्हणून ओळखला जात होता. दिल्लीत बसलेल्या नेत्यांच्या आळशीपणामुळे आणि चुकीच्या धोरणांमुळे एकेकाळी हिंसाचार आणि बंडखोरी शिगेला पोहोचली होती. परंतु पंतप्रधान नरेंद्र मोदी यांच्या गेल्या ९ वर्षांच्या 'एक्ट ईस्ट' धोरणामुळे आता ईशान्य हा समस्या क्षेत्र म्हणून गणला जात नाही. आता देशाच्या विकासात ईशान्येचा वाटा आहे, असेही केंद्रीय गृहमंत्री अमित शाह यांनी यावेळी नमूद केले.

यावेळी गृहमंत्री शाह यांनी लिकाबली (अरुणाचल प्रदेश), छपर (बिहार), नूरनाड (केरळ) आणि विशाखापट्टणम (आंध्र प्रदेश) येथे पायाभूत सुविधा मजबूत करण्यासाठी प्रकल्पांचे उद्घाटन केले. पंतप्रधान नरेंद्र मोदी यांच्या नेतृत्वाखालील सरकारने 2022-23 ते 2025-26 या आर्थिक वर्षांसाठी विशेषत: रस्ते जोडणीसाठी 2500 कोटी रुपयांसह 4800 कोटी रुपयांच्या निधीसह 'व्हायब्रंट व्हिलेज प्रोग्राम' मंजूर केला आहे

अरूणाचल प्रदेशातील किबीथू गावातून व्हायब्रंट व्हिलेजेस कार्यक्रमास प्रारंभ

केंद्रीय गृहमंत्री अमित शाह राहणार उपस्थित; योजनेसाठी ४८०० कोटींची तर रस्तेबांधणीसाठी २५०० कोटी तरतूद

    08-Apr-2023

 केंद्रीय गृह आणि सहकार मंत्री अमित शाह यांच्या हस्ते अरूणाचल प्रदेशातील सीमावर्ती किबीथू गावातून 'व्हायब्रंट व्हिलेजेस' कार्यक्रमाचे उद्घाटन करणार आहेत. पंतप्रधान नरेंद्र मोदींच्या नेतृत्वात केंद्र सरकारने 'व्हायब्रंट व्हिलेजेस' कार्यक्रमाला मंजूरी दिली आहे, या कार्यक्रमासाठी केंद्र सरकारने ४८०० कोटी रुपये मंजूर केले आहेत, यापैकी २५०० कोटी रुपये आर्थिक वर्ष २०२२-२३ ते २०२५-२६ दरम्यान खास रस्ते जोडणीसाठी खर्च करण्यात येतील. 'व्हायब्रंट व्हिलेजेस प्रोग्राम' या केंद्र सरकारतर्फे राबविल्या जाणाऱ्या कार्यक्रमात अरुणाचल प्रदेश, सिक्कीम, उत्तराखंड आणि हिमाचल प्रदेश तसेच लद्दाख या केंद्रशासित प्रदेशातील १९ जिल्ह्यातील ४६ गटांतील २९६७ खेड्यांचा सर्वंकष विकास करण्यात येणार आहे. या योजनेच्या पहिल्या टप्प्यात ६६२ खेड्यांचा प्राधान्यक्रमाने विकास केला जाईल, यात अरुणाचल प्रदेशातील ४५५ खेड्यांचा समावेश आहे.

 

'व्हायब्रंट व्हिलेजेस' कार्यक्रमाची या सीमावर्ती गावांत राहणाऱ्या लोकांचे जीवन उंचवण्यास मदत होईल आणि लोकांना आपापल्या मूळ ठिकाणी राहण्यास प्रोत्साहित करेल, जेणेकरून लोकांचे स्थलांतर थांबेल आणि सीमा सुरक्षित राखण्यातही मदत होईल. या अभियानासाठी जिल्हा प्रशासन, तालुका आणि पंचायत स्तरावर आवश्यक त्या यंत्रणेची मदत देईल, ज्याद्वारे निश्चित केलेल्या गावांमध्ये केंद्र आणि राज्य सरकारांच्या योजनांची १०० टक्के अंमलबजावणी सुनिश्चित होईल. गावांच्या विकासासाठी जिथे जिथे केंद्र सरकारने लक्ष घालण्याची गरज आहे, अशी क्षेत्रे म्हणजे, रस्ते जोडणी, पिण्याचे पाणी, सौर आणि पवन उर्जेसह वीज, मोबाईल आणि इंटरनेट कनेक्टिव्हिटी, पर्यटन केंद्रे, बहुउद्देशीय केंद्रे आणि आरोग्यसेवा पायाभूत सुविधा आणि आरोग्य केंद्रे यांचा विकास या योजनेंतर्गत करण्यात येणार आहे.

 

अरूणाचलमध्ये विविध प्रकल्पांचे उद्घाटन

 

केंद्रीय गृह आणि सहकार मंत्री अमित शाह १० एप्रिल, २०२३ रोजी किबिथू येथे "सुवर्ण जयंती सीमा प्रकाशमान अभियाना" अंतर्गत बांधण्यात आलेल्या अरुणाचल प्रदेश सरकारच्या नऊ सूक्ष्म जलविद्युत प्रकल्पांचे उद्घाटन करतील. तसेच, लिकाबली (अरुणाचल प्रदेश), छपरा (बिहार), नूरनाड (केरळ) आणि विशाखापट्टणम (आंध्र प्रदेश) येथे पायाभूत सुविधा वाढवण्यासाठी इंडो-तिबेटन बॉर्डर पोलिस (आयटीबीपी) प्रकल्पांचेही ते उद्घाटन करतील. केंद्रीय गृहमंत्री किबिथू येथे आयटीबीपीच्या जवानांशीही संवाद साधतील

 

 

G20 Uniting for Progress: Navigating Geo-Political Security Challenges ...

Uniting for Progress: Navigating Geo-Political and Security Challenges in the Global South

Summary of Major Recommendations

Global South nations should prioritize building strong and effective security institutions to provide stability and security for their citizens. This will require investing in police and military forces, intelligence and counterterrorism capabilities, and promoting regional cooperation to address transnational security threats.

 

They should also focus on building inclusive economies that can generate sustainable growth and job creation. This can be done through investments in education and training, promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, improving access to finance and credit, and promoting trade and investment.

 

Building resilience to climate change and promoting sustainable development should also be a priority. This may involve investing in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and forestry practices, and implementing measures to adapt to the impacts of climate change.

 

Developing domestic industries and diversifying their economies is crucial. This can be achieved through investments in education, infrastructure, and technology, creating new opportunities for growth and development. Forming regional economic blocs can also provide a larger market and greater bargaining power in international trade negotiations.

 

Prioritizing national interests and working together to build regional alliances can help balance external powers' influence and provide a united front in negotiations and conflict resolution. Investing in their military and security forces can help deter external aggression and provide greater stability in the region.

Lastly, investing in education, healthcare, and economic development can help address the underlying causes of terrorism and extremism. Cooperation among Global South nations to share intelligence and coordinate efforts to combat terrorism and extremist groups can prevent the spread of extremist ideologies, promoting greater stability and security in the region. India can lead the Global South's voice in bringing these challenges to world bodies.

 

Conclusion

China's utilization of gray zone tactics presents a major obstacle for countries worldwide, as these tactics obscure the lines between peace and war and can be challenging to counter. Nonetheless, through collaborative efforts and a range of countermeasures, countries can protect their interests and prevent China from achieving its strategic objectives through unconventional means.

 

Global South nations encounter various intricate geopolitical and security challenges, which may impede their ability to achieve long-term economic growth and development. Therefore, it is essential for the international community, led by India, to support their efforts by providing financial aid, technical expertise, and other forms of assistance as needed. With the right strategies and resources, these countries can overcome these challenges and attain a more prosperous and sustainable future.

To enhance the security of Global South countries, a Security Action Plan should prioritize capacity-building for their military forces, strengthening institutional and legal frameworks, promoting regional cooperation, and enhancing international partnerships. It is critical to strike a balance of interests and promote cooperation among nations to ensure that everyone benefits as a united community. India is committed to pursuing this objective during the G-20/C-20 conferences scheduled for 2023.

चीनच्या कुरघोड्या ! अरुणाचलच्या 11 ठिकाणांना चीनने दिली नवी नावे, परराष्...

Ukraine-Russia Conflict & Sun Tzu’s Art of War Gen NITIN GADKARI MAR 29

 

SAVE ▷  LISTEN

Dear Readers,

Most of us have read Sun Tzu’s Art of War. A lot many may have just glanced through. Recently I got this book and read through it. I wondered how valid this treatise's relevance to modern-day warfare is. I decided to test it against the Ukraine-Russia conflict, and to my surprise, the relevance was larger than I had imagined. The realisation compelled me to pen down my observations. I hope you will agree and, if not, refute it in the comment section. Thanks for reading and supporting me.

Ukraine-Russia Conflict & Sun Tzu’s Art of War

Sun Tzu’s Art of war is one of the most celebrated books on military literature. Written between 500 to 400 BC, it remains relevant to the art of warfare in the military domain. It has found relevance in spheres where competition is intrinsic to the business, for, e.g. Corporate affairs, sports and international relations. The book was written in the classical Chinese language and in a script known as ‘Seal’. Both are now outdated in China. This article has tried to analyse the relevance of Sun Tzu’s thought to modern-day warfare by understanding its relevance in the backdrop of the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

Introduction

When the author put this question of the relevance of the book to modern-day warfare, the chatGPT’s chat tool had the following answer:

‘Despite being written over two thousand years ago, “The Art of War” remains a widely read and influential text on military strategy and tactics. This is because many of the principles and ideas discussed in the book still apply to modern warfare and the battlefield.

For example, Sun Tzu stresses the importance of knowing oneself and one’s enemy and using that knowledge to gain a strategic advantage. This idea is still relevant today, as militaries around the world continue to prioritise intelligence gathering and analysis in their operations.

Sun Tzu also emphasises the importance of flexibility and adaptability, arguing that successful military leaders must be able to adjust their tactics and strategies as the situation on the battlefield changes. This idea is particularly relevant in modern warfare, where technological advancements and new tactics can quickly render old strategies obsolete.

Other concepts discussed in “The Art of War,” such as the importance of logistics, the use of deception and surprise, and the value of building alliances, are also still relevant to modern warfare.

In addition to its continued relevance in military contexts, many of the principles and ideas discussed in “The Art of War” have also been applied in business, politics, and sports. The book’s focus on strategy, leadership, and decision-making has made it a valuable resource for anyone interested in achieving success in competitive environments.

Overall, while the specifics of warfare may have changed since Sun Tzu’s time, the principles and ideas discussed in “The Art of War” continue to have broad relevance and applicability in modern contexts.’

The answer may seem satisfactory to a reader. Still, for a doubting, Tom could ask: Is it a case where the explanation has been force-fitted to suit today’s context? Hypothecating the argument further: If the relevance was so enormous as many seem to suggest, would Sun Tzu, if he had written ‘Art of War’ today, keep half the script intact without a change? That is a difficult question to answer. The author’s guess is maybe not, for he would seek relevance in today’s reality. The book in its original form was written keeping in mind the state of affairs in 400 BC China, where the dynasties had their armies and the General for the armies was chosen by the Emperor. He had a huge burden of keeping the sovereign territory, its people, and its asset safe. The book speaks of enemies who were the neighbouring dynasties or, at best, invaders from nearby lands. The best lesson one can draw is regarding the human understanding of war and warfare. Hence the famous and often quoted saying, ‘If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the outcomes of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, you will suffer a defeat for every victory gained. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.’ The human understanding of warfare was as evolved then as it is today. This quote is at the end of the fourth Chapter: Attack by Stratagem.

Each of the 13 Chapters of the book has explanations which would be relevant today, as they concern the human understanding of warfare. It involves Soldiers, Weaponry, Enemy, Terrain, Tactics, Intelligence and Strategy. Since these components have remained the same even today, it is easy to carve out their relevance.

Out of the thirteen Chapters, the most relevant to modern-day warfare are Chapter 2: Waging War, Chapter 3: Attack by Stratagem, Chapter 6: Weak Points & Strong, Chapter 9: Army on the March, Chapters 10 & 11 (combined together): Terrain & Nine Situations, and Chapter 13: The Use of Spies. We will expand on each of them in detail a little later. Also, it does not mean that the seven Chapters’ balance is irrelevant. They have but in lesser importance. Throughout the book, the reference to horses, chariots, spears, soldiers, and General-ship indicates battles of the Alexander era. One can marvel at the text’s relevance in those times. During that era, wars were an accepted form of dispute-solving mechanism. In arbitrary or real disputes, the strong consistently enforced their own will over the weak. The emphasis on maintaining a large fighting force was thus a necessity.

Finding Relevance to Modern-day Warfare

In this portion, we derive the relevance of the text to modern-day warfare. Starting with Chapter 2: Waging War. We will take Russia Ukraine conflict as a backdrop to our analysis. A lot has been stated about the reasons for the current conflict. People would ask: Was the war worth the price paid by Russia and Ukraine? In the first verse of this Chapter, Sun Tzu expands on the cost of war, especially the ones a thousand miles away. The cost of 100,000 men would be 1000 ounces of silver. In Ukraine Russia conflict, both countries have paid prices far greater than a thousand ounces of silver. The next verse talks about prolonging the war. The longer the war drags, the duller your men and weapons become. How true even today. The Ukraine-Russia conflict has reached a stage where everyone wants the war to end, yet no one knows how. Verse 6 states: There is no instance of a country having benefitted from a prolonged warfare.

Chapter 3: Attack by Stratagem. Two famous quotes are a part of this Chapter, and they explain the essence of the Chapter. First: To fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists of breaking the enemy’s resistance without fighting. President Putin and his General’s strategy and tactics have faced severe criticism in this conflict. Both lacked Sun Tzu’s dictum of breaking the enemy’s resistance without fighting. The second verse has already been quoted on the previous page, If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the outcomes of a hundred battles….. The earlier Chapter and Chapter 3 are more relevant to the times when states ruled within the ramparts of the four walls of a fort. The enemy had no way inside to battle and hence took recourse to a prolonged siege. In modern-day warfare, there is little chance of refuge in fortified cities. Vertical envelopment and the use of weapons from the air nullify that advantage.

Chapter 6: Weak Points & Strong Points. Sun Tzu expands on the need to be ahead of the enemy and make him react by seizing the initiative. Sun Tzu says military tactics are like water, for water in a natural course runs away from high places and hastens downwards. So in war, avoid what is strong and strike what is weak. A principle which holds good even today. Yet the Chapter’s relevance is more at the tactical level. When Sun Tzu wrote the book, the equation between adversaries was dyadic, one against the other. If a third party joined the war, it was a part of one of the fighting sides. In modern-day warfare, there is rarely an eventuality when two warring sides are battling it alone. There are supporting forces who join the main force, like the coalition forces in the two Gulf Wars. Or they support by providing arms, ammunition, and technology, like in the case of Ukraine in their conflict with Russia.

Chapter 9: The Army on the March. In this Chapter, the relevance of the use of terrain and crossing obstacles during an offensive has been explained. Credit must be given to Sun Tzu for understanding the nuance of the use of terrain and impediments/delays that an obstacle like a river can pose. He thus propounded tactics to counter the enemy when in defence and precaution when going in for an offensive. An essential part of this Chapter explains the soldiers’ behaviour and how to interpret it concerning the army’s morale. The sight of men whispering together in small knots or speaking in subdued tones points to disaffection amongst rank and file. Second: Too frequent rewards signify that the enemy is at the end of his resources; too many punishments betray a condition of dire distress. Morale forms an essential component of the management of the war effort for any army. In any prolonged war high morale of soldiers is the first casualty. The Russian soldiers were shown on western channels TV suffering from low morale, as would be the case for Ukraine Army but never shown. Thus the linkages between prolonged war and low morale are everlasting and need utmost attention.

Chapters 10 & 11: Terrain & Nine Situations. Sun Tzu explains different types of ground which must be understood. The term is tactical and not geographic; hence, the terrain is stated as ‘Ground’. Accessible ground, entangling ground, temporising ground etc. These terms explain the importance of ground for attack and defence vis-à-vis the enemy. In modern wars, these areas favour the defence, like a home bank of a river or a pass which can be a killing ground. In the recent Ukraine-Russia conflict, many such grounds were part of the conflict, for, e.g. the fight on the west bank of the Dnieper river near Kherson. The town was captured by the Russians in March 2022. Since then, the bridge at Antinovsky bridge has been an important crossing point for Russian forces to cross the Dnieper river to reach its west bank. In July 2022, the Ukranian forces shelled and destroyed the bridge, forcing the Russians to supply the troops with barges and ferries. Coupled with the counter-offensive on Kherson, the Russians were forced to abandon the captured territory west of the river, making a tactical withdrawal for better command and control. Thus Kherson fell to the Ukrainians. In Sun Tzu’s language, it was an ‘Entangling Ground’. A ground is easy to abandon but is very difficult to retake.

The nine situations are most apt for the Ukraine-Russia conflict. It expounds on the challenges that Generals face while conducting operations on nine varieties of grounds. It is particularly true when the forces are attacking, in this case, the Russians. Quoting the verses: When you leave your country behind and take your army across neighbourhood territory, you find yourself on critical ground. Similarly, Sun Tzu explains the concept of severe and facile ground: shallow and deep penetration. The desperate ground where you are hemmed in from both sides. Serious ground, desperate ground and contentious ground. Russian forces have encountered almost all the situations yearlong and are still not ending the war. One of the most extended Chapters, it offers advice to the Generals and leaders of men and rulers alike. One of the final verses is: Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the enemy’s purpose. This verse is profound and explains the spirit of Sun Tzu’s writings. ‘Accommodating to enemy’s purpose’ is understanding the enemy’s war objectives and countering them by careful planning. Sun Tzu describes it as the ability to accomplish a thing by sheer cunning. It could be a lesson for the Russian leader to use more guile and cunning and less force.

Chapter 13: The Use of Spies. Intelligence has now become the key to any war. Thus the importance of this Chapter cannot be under-emphasised. If anything, this has taken a newer dimension. ‘Information Manipulation’. The Ukraine-Russia conflict is a classic example where the media played an equal and decisive role in shaping the battlefield. It also could be the principal reason why the war still drags on. Success, when there is none, exaggeration, and loss when they are not serious, have kept the world misinformed about the actual state of affairs. Media has shaped public opinion in favour of Ukraine and against Russia. Putin is the new Hitler, and Zelensky is the new Eisenhower. While the former may be a Hitler, the latter is no better. Amongst all the Chapters, the most relevant to modern-day warfare is the last Chapter. Use of spies to gain information in its new form: Information Manipulation

Conclusion

The treatise Art of War by Sun Tzu, written in 400 century BC, remains the most acknowledged book on warfare comparable to modern-day military thinkers like Von Clausewitz’s ‘On War’. Thinkers, historians, students, and professionals read it because Art of War provides insight into the human side of warfare. Thus, its application expands beyond the realms of warfare alone, and it gets recognition in governance and business affairs. Sun Tzu, while writing, would not have thought how he would be interpreted two thousand five hundred years later. But if he were alive today, it would have pleased him to see his wide acceptance of his work.

Coming to matters military, are his writings relevant today? It would remain a conjecture. The article above has tried to determine its relevance concerning the latest raging conflict. This comparison itself should answer the question. Yet like, as they say, ‘Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder’; thus, the relevance lies in the extent of the reader’s knowledge. The more knowledgeable the reader, the larger relevance he will find in writing. The Ukraine-Russia conflict still continues and shows no signs of abating. Sun Tzu would have advised both sides to halt, for as he said, ‘There is no instance of a country having benefitted from a prolonged warfare

SECURITY SCAN 37, CCP SPY IN EVERY POCKET BATTLE AGAINST DRUGS, CHINA RUSSIA AND INDIAN NATIONAL INTERESTS

https://www.newsbharati.com/Encyc/2023/4/1/Security-Scan-37.html 

News In Brief

2 Pakistanis Arrested In Greece For Plotting Terrorist Attack At Jewish Restaurant

The Greek police anti-terrorist division and the country's intelligence services dismantled a terrorist network. According to Greek police, the terrorist network was planning attacks in Greece and aimed "to cause the loss of life of innocent citizens but also to undermine the sense of security in the country," as per The Wall Street Journal report.

How To Sink A Chinese Warship? Japan Plans ‘Triple Attack’ On PLAN Vessels

Japan’s new missile projects announced last year to deter Chinese and North Korean attacks might work in tandem, along with US and Norwegian-made missile systems to primarily target People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) warships.

Biden to Stunt Growth in China for Chipmakers Getting US Funds

Commerce unveils new curbs on firms that take federal money. The Biden administration is set to unveil tight restrictions on new operations in China by semiconductor manufacturers that get federal funds to build in the US.

The $50 billion CHIPS and Science Act will bar firms that win grants from expanding output by 5% for advanced chips and 10% for older technology, according to officials at the Commerce Department, which will disburse the funds.

Beijing envoy warns Dutch of retaliation for chip curbs: ‘

Tan Jian, Chinese ambassador to the Netherlands, says export restrictions on chip technology ‘will not be without consequences’.The Dutch firm ASML is the world’s leading producer of photolithography machines crucial to making advanced microchips.

TikTok Generation: A CCP Spy  in Every Pocket

Every day that TikTok is allowed to operate in the United States is another day that China can collect data on American citizens and sharpen its ability to exploit them—especially young people. The more that TikTok becomes embedded in U.S. society, the harder it will be to uproot. Even so, there will be another TikTok. The U.S. will have ceded yet another critical digital battlespace to its adversaries. More so, U.S. policymakers have a duty to safeguard America’s social fabric and protect young citizens from the whims of a hostile, foreign nation.

TikTok’s data exploitation practices, privacy abuses, influence operations, and promotion of social contagions leave Americans vulnerable to the CCP.

Given the current threat environment, a wholesale ban of TikTok’s operations in the U.S. is the only viable option to protect the United States and Americans.

Securing The Undersea Cable Network
Over 95 percent of international telecommunications flow via a fiber-optic undersea cable network that is increasingly vulnerable to both physical (mostly submarine-based) and cyberspace-based attacks.

The mitigating measures considered range from the purely technological to the diplomatic.

Internal Security

 

Manipur fighting uphill battle against drugs

 

From 2018 till March 3 this year, 217 people have been convicted in 636 cases. But those convicted are couriers; no kingpins have been convicted due to shoddy investigation. The conviction rate is poor, with many officials authorised to seize drugs and make arrests under the NDPS Act not being very familiar with the processes involved in seizures. The public and the Centre should support the state government to win the war against drugs.

 

Manipur, which shares a 398-km border with Myanmar, is combating the menace of illicit drugs on two fronts — cultivation of poppy and ganja and conversion of opium into heroin, and smuggling of drugs from Myanmar.

 

The problem of hard drugs is now so serious that people are no longer bothered about soft drugs like ganja.Opium and ganja are mainly produced within the state, while heroin is either manufactured locally or brought from across the border. The rest all are smuggled from across the border. As the border is is loosely guarded, it is easy to cross it. Drives are conducted on a regular basis to seize illicit contraband, but the seizures are limited as illicit drugs, which originate from Manipur, are seized in neighbouring states such as Nagaland, Assam and Meghalaya. All security agencies have been empowered under the NDPS Act to seize illicit drugs and make arrests.

Less than 10 per cent of the Manipur-Myanmar border is fenced and thus it serves as the transit route for illegal drugs to the North-East from Golden Triangle, the tri-junction of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand borders.

 

Manipur DGP P. Doungel, at a press conference in January, said from January 1, 2017, till January 17, 2023, his department had arrested 2,817 people and 2,243 cases had been registered under the NDPS Act. He added that during this period, poppy plantation on 15,642 acres was destroyed, including 777 acres this year. He said the state’s ‘War on drugs 2.0’ was a serious effort to destroy poppy cultivation.

 

Manipur is facing a serious drug issue — both its use and trafficking and transportation to other states and countries. The state government needs to ensure that kingpins are convicted.

The public and the Centre should support the state government to win the war against drugs. Else, Manipur will become the gateway of illicit drugs to other parts of the country.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauds contribution of CRPF

​​Noting the role of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED), HM said the two agencies have been acting strongly to stop funding to LWE. Shah said, the CRPF's annual celebration is being held for the first time in a LWE-affected area and that too in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh. The event was held at Karanpur camp of the 201st battalion of the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action(CoBRA), which is located around 20 km away from Jagdalpur, the headquarter of Bastar district.