2(a). Carl von Clausewitz once said, "War is a diplomacy by other means." Critically analyse the above statement in the present context of contemporary geo-political conflict. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Clausewitz argued that war is an extension of politics. While relevant historically, in today’s interdependent world this dictum must be critically assessed.
Relevance today:
- The Russia–Ukraine war exemplifies war as pursuit of political aims—territorial control and bargaining power with NATO.
- India’s 2019 Balakot airstrikes against terror camps in Pakistan were calibrated military moves with clear diplomatic signalling.
- China’s aggression along the LAC blends military force with diplomatic bargaining, echoing Clausewitz.
Limitations in modern context:
- UN Charter (1945) prohibits use of war as diplomacy, urging peaceful settlement.
- Nuclear deterrence (India’s NFU policy) makes full-scale war diplomatically counterproductive.
- Globalisation and economic interdependence mean war often hurts initiator more (Russia’s sanctions-driven economic decline).
- Rise of hybrid warfare: cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns (China’s cyber intrusions into Indian power grids in 2020) show that diplomacy now uses subtler tools.
Indian context:
India prefers diplomacy, multilateralism, and strategic autonomy (Non-Alignment 2.0). Defence preparedness (Border Roads Organisation projects, Quad naval cooperation) strengthens diplomacy without escalating to war.
Clausewitz’s dictum remains partially valid, but in the 21st century war is too costly and diplomacy is more effective through economic leverage, cyber influence, and multilateral engagement. Thus, diplomacy must remain the first resort, with war as the last.
2(b). Keeping the national security in mind, examine the ethical dilemmas related to controversies over environmental clearance of development projects in ecologically sensitive border areas in the country. (Answer in 150 words) 10
The environment sustainability vs the infrastructure development debate attracts immense attention in ecologically sensitive border areas. These areas are known for having fragile ecosystems and high proportion of endangered species. At the same time, the infra projects here often have a national security implication, aiming to ensure preparedness to tackle any adversaries.
The controversies in these regions are thereby different from those happening in other areas of the country and involve the following ethical dilemmas:
- National Security vs. Environmental Sustainability: Projects like the Char Dham highway expansion aid troop mobility along the China border but risk landslides and biodiversity loss.
- Right to Development vs. Right to Environment: Citizens need connectivity for growth, but SC in MC Mehta vs. Union of India upheld environment as part of Article 21 (right to life).
- Tribal Rights vs. Strategic Imperatives: Often these areas are habituated by the tribals and Infrastructure projects may displace tribal communities, violating Forest Rights Act, 2006.
- Short-term benefit vs. Intergenerational justice: Ecological damage compromises future security by worsening climate change and disasters (e.g., Joshimath subsidence, 2023).
- Security imperatives vs. Poor Implementation of Environmental Laws: In several such projects environmental clearances are expedited and given in a vague manner owing to importance of the project in terms of national security, undermining the safeguards like Environment Impact Assessment (EIA). Also, pressure to fast-track projects in these areas may also compromise environmental security.
- Government Initiatives vs Lack of Local Participation: In border areas, government often initiates infra projects without sufficient collaboration with the local people (for eg: Lack of Gram Sabha participation under PESA Act, 1996).
The way forward is to ensure a fine balance between the infra needs and the health of the environment by utilising green technologies (eg: slope stabilisation) and involving the locals in planning. A case in point is the Bogibeel Bridge in Assam which immensely enhances defence connectivity but has also endeavoured to manage environment safeguards as well.
In India, the long border with Pakistan (Northern India) and China (Northern + Northeastern India) requires strategic security related infrastructure push. These are bound to impact the environment as well, but are necessary keeping in mind our neighbours. Ethical administration requires balancing security, environment, and community rights, guided by Directive Principles (Art. 48A – protect environment, Art. 39 – justice). True national security is holistic, securing both borders and ecosystems for future generations.
