#SecurityScan 44: NIA arrests alleged Jaish operative in Kashmir & more

This article is a summary of important events that have taken place in last one week affecting, India's national security.

CHINA'S MULTI DOMAIN WAR WITH INDIA & THE WORLD

China has made deep inroads into India and other major nations of the world to control the narrative warfare. It has unleashed multi domain war on the world and the world has no answers.

The Chinese Way of War

- Build military and monetary muscle by all means.

- Acquire advanced technologies by any means.

- Control the domestic population using advanced technologies.

- Snoop upon external population using advanced technologies.

- Identify and control the critical supply chain.

- Use free world institutions to own advantage.

- Keep the neighbouring and uncooperative nations unsettled by various methods.

- Propaganda through social, print & electronic media.

- Acquire educational institutions through donations and funding.

- Influence politicians, celebrities, academia, and students.

- Acquire sensitive and personal information on important persons.

- Create internal trouble utilizing all the above.

- Keep the borders active.

Technological Prowess at Any Cost

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute undertook a year-long project on progress made by various countries in advanced technologies. China led the list in 37 of the 44 technologies tracked. The areas included — electric batteries, hypersonic, and advanced radio-frequency communications such as 5G and 6G, etc.

China didn’t reach there by sheer hard work but rather by utilizing evil genius. In 2020 FBI Director Christopher Wray disclosed — “We have now over 2,000 investigations that tie back to the Chinese government. We open a case on Chinese activities every 10 hours. It is a 1,300 percent increase over the last several years.”

China’s rampant Intellectual Property (IP) theft has damaged many nations’ economies but nothing like the damage done to the USA. The United States loses $600 billion annually due to Chinese IP thefts.

Overseas Chinese Citizens For Stealing Technology

They utilized stolen software from Silver Oak Software to create the infamous ‘Great Firewall’ of China. China devised novel ways to snoop upon foreign nationals and one of them is Chinese Internet of Things (IoT) modules. IoT is widely used in smart devices in agriculture, manufacturing, transport, CCTV, etc. In January 2023, British government officials discovered a Chinese cellular IoT module, used as a tracking device in a car used by senior ministers. In 2017 fitness tracking app Strava set the alarm bells ringing among American intelligence agencies when exercising US soldiers gave away the location of their secret US army bases while using the fitness trackers like Fitbit. Port cranes with real-time data analysis capabilities, baggage-screening systems, electric transformers, the Chinese snooping list is endless.

Chinese surveillance camera manufacturer HikVision is ubiquitous in India. HikVision and all other Chinese companies are bound by China’s national security laws, which require them to comply with requests from the Chinese state. IoT modules embedded in supply chains and logistics systems could spill beans on Indian defence manufacturers’ supply chains. China could utilize data from companies like HikVision to build up a picture of how many spare parts and weapons systems have been delivered and to which Indian defence base.

A large number of Chinese spies cross over from the Nepal border into India to undertake nefarious activities. The arrest of the fake Buddhist monk Cai Ruo, a Chinese spy, from Majnu Ka Tila, Delhi, in October 2022 was an eye-opener. Thousands of such spies could be staying in India.

Takeover of Global Institutions

China has systematically infiltrated the United Nations and various global institutions for exploitation. All the Chinese officials who are manning crucial positions in global institutions are members of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and provide a façade for the Chinese espionage network and push Chinese propaganda.

Effectively, China has infiltrated and continues to influence 70 global institutions. It heads four out of 15 United Nations bodies. The situation is akin to living in a CCP-ruled world where you know the ruler is there to exploit you, but the vested interests keep you quiet.

Multi Domain War Against India

China is using compromised media in India to write against the West and sold-out media in the West to write against India. Idea is to pit both against each other. The 27 April 2023 statement of Chinese Gen. Li Shangfu at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting to de-link the standoff at LAC with bilateral relations was not a request but a warning to India to tow the Chinese line or face the consequences. Unrest in Manipur could be a follow-up on the same warning.

Now, it is up to the world to realize that China’s wars will not be fought by PLA soldiers. Their soldiers are already existing in our nations, towns, and societies, fighting for China at a minuscule cost of a real war.

News In Brief

Terror ecosystem in J-K isolated via developmental schemes, says LG Sinha

Jammu and Kashmir has suffered terrorism from Pakistan for 30 years but is now witnessing a new era of growth and peace, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said. The terror ecosystem has been isolated through developmental schemes implemented and the Union Territory's effective administration.

NIA arrests alleged Jaish operative in Kashmir

The accused was identified as Muhammad Ubaid Malik of Kupwara, was allegedly in constant touch with a Pakistan based JeM commander.

Army choppers make emergency landing in Bikaner due to inclement weather

The pilots of both the choppers are safe.

Indian forces being trained in Krav Maga to deal with China's PLA during border patrol

"Israel's Krav Maga is considered to be one of the best forms of martial arts combined with aikido, karate and judo and will help patrolling units give a befitting reply during skirmishes.

MiG-29K fighter makes maiden night landing on INS Vikrant

The Indian Navy achieves another historic milestone by undertaking the maiden night landing of MiG-29K on INS Vikrant. This is indicative of the Navy's impetus towards Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance).

Need to focus on technological advancement in defence sector: Rajnath Singh

"For a country like India, it becomes very important because we are facing a double threat on our borders. In such a situation, it is very important for us to move forward in terms of technological advancement," the Defence minister said.

MRSAM successfully test-fired from Navy's INS Mormugao

"The successful maiden MRSAM firing by INS Mormugao is yet another milestone in Indian Navy's quest for accurate delivery of ordnance on target, and showcases Indian Navy's future-proof combat readiness and commitment towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

India looks to boost naval power amid China’s expansion in the Indian Ocean

The Indian Navy has placed an order for 200 supersonic cruise missiles at a cost of US$2.5 billion (S$3.4 billion) as part of a modernisation drive to counter China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean.

The missiles will be made by BrahMos Aerospace, an India-Russia joint venture.

Army, IAF conduct joint exercise along western borders

Indian Army's Shatrujeet Brigade and the Western Command conducted a joint exercise in synergy with the Indian Air Force (IAF) along the western command.

Indian Army Constructs School For Visually Challenged Children In Assam

China’s Apple loss is India’s gain, as 2022 supplier list shows shift in supply chain preferencesApple added five new suppliers in mainland China last year but cut eight, while production bases in India rose to 14 from 11China remains a production stronghold for the iPhone maker, with 151 of its 188 suppliers having facilities in the country.

AI Is Helping Create the Chips That Design AI Chips

The human role is slowly being handed over to machines and algorithms. As artificial intelligence drives demand for more advanced semiconductors, new techniques in AI are becoming crucial to continued progress in chip manufacturing.

The entire semiconductor supply chain, from design through to final fabrication, is now dominated by data. Over 100 petabytes of information is created and collated during the manufacturing process, according to one estimate by Intel Corp. That’s equivalent to a 170-year-long YouTube video.

Russia's close ties with China unlikely to impact its India policy

While it appears that Russia and China have overcome the fallouts of Sino-Soviet conflict, the reality presents a different picture as Moscow continues to safeguard its strategic partnership with both New Delhi and Hanoi.

EXTERNAL SECURITY

India-Australia ties-Quad partners on the right track

The relations between India and Australia are going from strength to strength. The two nations are getting closer not only bilaterally but also as Quad partners. Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Anthony Albanese have already met each other six times in the past one year. PM Modi’s just-concluded visit to Australia was very successful. Both countries decided to seal a comprehensive trade deal by the year-end. They also signed a migration and mobility partnership pact that is expected to open up opportunities for students, academic researchers and business people and curb illegal immigration. This agreement comes just two months after the Australia-India Education Qualification Recognition Mechanism was finalised during Albanese’s visit to India.

Considering the priority being given to strong ties in the education sector, India and Australia need to effectively tackle the menace of visa fraud. A large-scale clean-up is required to weed out unscrupulous immigration and education consultants.

Even as the talks focused on cooperation in a wide range of sectors — education, green hydrogen, defence and security, trade and investment, critical minerals — PM Modi raised India’s concerns over the attacks on temples and the activities of Khalistan sympathisers in Australia. The two governments decided to exchange information and coordinate with each other regarding action against separatists and vandals who have been defacing community centres and temples with anti-India graffiti. This is an area where Australia needs to be proactive to ensure that its territory is not misused by radical elements. Dealing firmly with such troublemakers can pave the way for a deeper engagement between New Delhi and Canberra.

India's engagement in the Pacific region reflects a well-calculated strategic approach

PM Modi's recent visit to Papua New Guinea – the first by any Indian premier – coincided with the US inking a defence agreement with the Pacific island nation. Pacific island countries (PIC) have emerged as a strategic battleground between the Democratic World and China, with China trying to peel away some PICs in recent years. China inked its own security pact with the Solomon Islands last year. If the Chinese are able to establish a strong foothold in the islands, it would create a serious strategic-security headache for the free world in the south Pacific.

India and the democratic world teaming up in the PIC region is a good idea. While USA can provide security guarantees to the islands, India can position itself as a reliable development partner. That was the thrust of Prime Minster Modi’s 12-point action plan announced at the 3rd Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation Summit.

Not Small Island States, But Large Ocean Countries

PM Modi said India is ready to share its capabilities and experiences with PICs “without any hesitation” and assured them that “we are with you in every way”. “For me, you are not small island states, but large ocean countries. It is this vast ocean that connects India with all of you,” added PM Modi.

PNG PM James Marape responded by calling the Pacific island nations as victims of global power play. “You (PM Modi) are the leader of Global South. We will rally behind your (India) leadership at global forums,” he said.

Fiji and Papua New Guinea on Monday conferred their highest civilian awards on PM Modi on the margins of the third summit between India and Pacific Island Countries (PIC) at Port Moresby.

India's Engagement In The Pacific Region Well-Calculated

New Delhi has consistently aimed to strengthen diplomatic ties with nations in this region. India responded by establishing the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) in 2014. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Papua New Guinea for the third FIPIC summit emphasized India's commitment to Pacific outreach.

Prime Minister Modi's 12-point action plan showcased India's nonintrusive and accommodating approach. By charting a benign course and avoiding excessive demands, India stands to advance its goals in the region effectively.

China’s Proposed Security Deal With Pacific Islands Fails

Foreign ministers of 10 Pacific island nations have failed to endorse a proposed security cooperation deal with China after a meeting with China’s top diplomat in Fiji.

Indian Way Ahead in PIC Countries

The difference in the US and Indian approach was evident in the PNG capital. Students demonstrated against Washington’s package of $45 million mainly for security cooperation. On the other hand, India’s promised health and social sector assistance came in for all-round praise.

For India, it is crucial for the ongoing initiatives to maintain their momentum. China, on the other hand, possesses greater financial resources, making it better prepared for the enduring strategic competition.

In order to counter Chinese influence effectively or exert strategic pressure on China, India must adopt consistent outreach policies towards its crucial partner nations.

It is essential for India to focus on long-term economic growth, which will enable it to establish a robust maritime presence and incorporate it into its foreign policy. By bolstering its economy, India can strengthen its position and enhance its ability to navigate the complex dynamics of the strategic contest.

It is crucial for democratic nations including India to work collaboratively and sustain long-term engagement to counter Chinese influence effectively and protect the interests of Pacific island states. Democracies should coordinate their actions and strategies to present a united front against Chinese political warfare and economic coercion. This can include sharing intelligence, coordinating diplomatic efforts, and aligning policies to counter China's influence in the region.

ECONOMIC SECURITY

No regulatory failure around Adani Group’s stocks

A Supreme Court-appointed expert committee’s findings that it cannot conclude any regulatory failure around Adani Group’s stock rallies will come as a relief to the business conglomerate. No adverse observation has been made against it. In January, the US-based short-seller Hindenburg raised concerns over the Adani Group’s high debt levels and alleged improper use of offshore tax havens as well as stock manipulation. According to the six-member committee, the market has re-priced and re-assessed the Adani stocks. Set up in response to writ petitions in the apex court, it noted that market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) did not find any pattern of artificial trading during the period the Adani Group stocks scored hefty gains on the bourses.

The Adani group has rejected the Hindenburg report as ‘maliciously mischievous’. The expert panel was also asked to suggest measures to strengthen the regulatory mechanism.

In its estimation, SEBI is well-empowered and conferring more powers on it does not seem proper. At the same time, it has prescribed steps to improve regulatory functioning and increase investor awareness; these should be taken seriously by all stakeholders.

WOMEN SECURITY

Five Of The 35 Women From Punjab -Rescued From Gulf

Five out of the 35 women hailing from Punjab, who were victims of a treacherous human trafficking scheme in the Gulf, have been rescued and brought back to their families in India. A distressing video clip that circulated widely brought attention to their plight and prompted the India to take action. These women suffered financial losses, also endured unimaginable physical and psychological abuse. Fortunately, eight more women returned home on Wednesday, offering hope that the remaining 22 will also be able to escape the ordeal they are currently enduring. These women fell prey to deceitful agents who promised them better opportunities abroad.

Typically, the modus operandi involves enticing illiterate or semi-literate women with domestic or labor work positions in Gulf countries. These women are then sent on flights with visitor visas that are valid for only a few weeks. Once their visas expire, their stay becomes illegal, subjecting them to exorbitant penalties of up to Rs 3 lakh each for their release.

This incident emphasizes the urgent need for increased public awareness regarding such matters. Airport authorities should be trained to identify economically disadvantaged or undereducated women and provide them with guidance about the risks they may encounter. Moreover, it is essential to enforce stricter regulations for agents operating in this field, ensuring that those who exploit vulnerable individuals face severe consequences. The exposure of these human traffickers, disguising themselves as mediators for overseas employment, must also be brought in the public domain.

The responsibility of verifying the credentials of travel agents and raising awareness about these harrowing experiences lies with various stakeholders, including the Punjab government.

Russia's close ties with China unlikely to impact its India policy

UKRAINE WAR

China keeps Putin waiting on gas pipeline

Power of Siberia .Beijing is driving a hard bargain as Moscow presses for a new Sino-Russian pipeline through Mongolia.

Wagner mercenary chief Prigozhin warns Russia could face revolution

UKRAINE-CRISIS - Mercenary Prigozhin warns Russia could face revolution unless elite gets serious about war.

Now, Chinese def firm link to Pak supplies to Ukraine

The consignments will be shipped by Pakistan Ordnance Factories from Karachi Port to Gdansk Port in Poland in the next three months and subsequently moved to Ukraine. The shipments will be exported via MV Maj Richard Winters, MV SLNC Magothy and MV Ocean Freedom, Kiev, in return, has launched the process to supply Mi-17 helicopter engines and auxiliary spare parts to the Pakistan military in lieu of Islamabad's regular supply of defence equipment to the Ukrainian army.

Russia moves ahead with deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus

Russia moved ahead on Thursday with a plan to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, whose leader said the warheads were already on the move, in the Kremlin's first deployment of such bombs outside Russia since the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union.The U.S. State Department denounced the deployment plan, but said Washington had no intention of altering its position on strategic nuclear weapons or seen any signs Russia was preparing to use a nuclear weapon.