Post-Pahalgam and the India–Pakistan clash, the geopolitical and geostrategic spectrums and imperatives of the region stand irrevocably altered, much to India’s detriment. The regional, extra-regional and world views of the region too have undergone a massive paradigm shift. India might still be the largest country in the South Asian Region (SAR), however a new, competing centre of power has now emerged and been recognised as such – Pakistan! The balance of power has shifted to a more even keel, irrevocably. The strategic balance and calculus have been recalibrated. This has redefined the geopolitical and geostrategic dynamics of the region – even while disregarding the phenomenal China Factor. Severe ramifications for alliances, strategic partnerships, alignments, international relations, etc., have thus ensued, which must now transform and/or readjust to remain relevant to the new emerging geopolitical and geostrategic realities in the SAR.

Ex-leader Kabila slams DR Congo ‘dictatorship’ after losing immunity

At the domestic Indian level, PM Modi and his supremacist, majoritarian BJP’s loss of face is endemic. Their political graph has sunk steeply. They were badly exposed in the Balakot clash with Pakistan in February 2019. Now questions are being raised on the ostensible geopolitical and military aims, costs and benefits of this contrived geostrategic environment and the embarrassing results of the ensuing clash in May 2025. This entire sorry episode is being viewed as a horrendous strategic faux pas by the Modi Government. The Indian military’s (especially the Indian Air........

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