Defence expert Lt. Gen. Raj Shukla (Retd.) says geopolitics and national security are deeply interconnected, with global focus shifting from economic concerns to military priorities. He highlights rising defence budgets worldwide and describes how the United States, under Donald Trump, uses tariffs and military power as instruments of statecraft. Shukla points out US military and fiscal actions aimed at countering threats like those posed by Venezuela and preventing China from becoming a hegemon in Asia. He stresses that India must strengthen its own defence posture by increasing spending and pursuing strategic military transformation. Shukla welcomes initiatives such as Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) and other operational reforms, but says deeper structural changes—including adequate budgets, theatre commands, and unmanned systems—are crucial to address evolving geopolitical and security challenges.Read More
