OPINION Vol.1, No.1 June 2013 - National Defence University

protecting Indian investments overseas and knowledge and knowledge production, especially the
capacity to innovate and to generate new forms of knowledge.
Pacify the immediate neighbours especially China and Pakistan.
Become an indispensable power in the littorals of the Indian Ocean and south-western Pacific 12 .
Increase weight in global governance and eventually emerge as a "rule-maker"; quest for
permanent seat at UNSC is crucial in this regard.
Strengthen military muscle for becoming a credible power.
Indian Vision 2020. 13 Indian elite has now started believing in ‘India Vision 2020’ that India should
become part of the developed nations of the World. Objectives set forth are:-
India, by 2020 will be bustling with energy, entrepreneurship and innovation.
The country’s 1.35 billion people will be better fed, dressed and housed, taller and healthier, more
educated and longer living.
Silicon Valley will diversify from IT to biotechnology, medical sciences and other emerging fields
of technology.
Economic disparities between the “Haves” and “Have nots” will reduce.
India will be integrated with the global economy and a major player in terms of trade, technology
and investment.
Rising levels of education, employment and income will help stabilize India’s internal security and
social environment.
A socially united, militarily strong and economically prosperous India being far less vulnerable to
external threats.
Driving Factors for Rising India. The following factors drive the Indian Vision of “Rising India”:-
Geostrategic Significance. Indian geography is bestowed with abundant natural resources,
diversity of landscapes and a dominating location in the Indian Ocean providing her the requisite
power potential and geo-strategic advantage. It enables her to influence Indian Ocean as a
counterweight to China and remain relevant to future global politics and help rise in the process. It is
believed that India’s power resides at the convergence of the United States’ great interests; winning
the war in Afghanistan, finding pivot in Asia-Pacific and the containment of China’s growing
assertiveness.
National Political Will. The fact remains that within last 19 years, India has experienced seven
governments, 6 prime ministers but one direction which has managed average of 7.3% growth.
According to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, priorities of India are 14 :-
First, India seeks rapid economic growth to accumulate wealth for the people.
Second, India seeks growth that creates employment and development that is socially and
regionally balanced and inclusive.
Third, India seeks to build a modern, knowledge and science-based economy to complement
agricultural and industrial base.
Fourth, India wants development to be sustainable so that the wealth of natural resources is
conserved for future generations.
Fifth, India seeks a cooperative relationship with her neighbours and other partners so that all
can prosper and benefit from each other.
Sixth, India seeks to realize its development ambitions within the framework of a plural and
secular democracy.
Democratic Values. India has been a democracy for over six decades with fifteen General
Elections to her credit. In this time, it has achieved some remarkable successes. Despite being
severely critical of its politicians, the Indian electorate remains enthusiastic in its political
participation especially at the elections with over 60% turnout rates; one of the highest in the world.
OPINION Vol.1 No.1 35 June 2013