TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 228

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 228

Q1. The United States and Iran are facing renewed tensions, while Qatar is attempting mediation. How should India protect its interests without taking sides in the conflict?

Answer: Sir/Ma'am, India's main interests in West Asia are energy security, regional peace, maritime trade and the safety of Indian citizens. A conflict between the United States and Iran could disrupt the Strait of Hormuz, increase oil prices and affect India's economy. India should maintain diplomatic relations with all major countries in the region and support peaceful negotiations. We should also diversify petroleum imports, strengthen maritime security and prepare emergency evacuation arrangements. Qatar's mediation shows that dialogue remains possible even during military tensions. In my view, strategic autonomy means taking independent decisions based on national interests while supporting peace, international law and regional stability.

Q2. The Indian Air Force has reportedly achieved a major high-altitude landing at Nyoma in Ladakh. Does better military infrastructure automatically improve India's security along the China border?

Answer: Sir/Ma'am, better military infrastructure is essential, but infrastructure alone cannot guarantee national security. The reported landing at Nyoma demonstrates India's growing ability to transport troops and equipment in difficult Himalayan conditions. Such facilities can improve emergency response, military logistics and operational flexibility. However, high-altitude operations face challenges involving weather, aircraft performance, maintenance and road connectivity. India also needs intelligence, trained personnel, secure communications and effective diplomatic engagement with China. A successful landing should not automatically be treated as proof of regular all-weather operations. My view is that border security requires a combination of military preparedness, infrastructure, technology and diplomacy.