India and Pakistan have a long history of complex relations, marked by tension, conflict, and intermittent peace efforts. Over the years, India has employed a variety of strategies to address its concerns with Pakistan, ranging from diplomatic measures to military actions and economic pressures. This article explores the strategic steps India has taken against Pakistan in the realms of diplomacy, military, and economy, shedding light on how these actions have shaped their bilateral relations.
1. Diplomatic Measures: Advocacy for Global Support
India has often used diplomatic channels to counter Pakistan’s actions, particularly in international forums such as the United Nations (UN), the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and other multilateral platforms.
a. Raising Issues at the United Nations: India has consistently raised the issue of terrorism emanating from Pakistan at the UN, particularly after major attacks like the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and the 2016 Uri attack. New Delhi has often highlighted Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorist organizations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), seeking international condemnation of these actions. India has successfully garnered support from major global powers to label these groups as terror organizations.
b. Isolation of Pakistan Diplomatically: India has worked to isolate Pakistan diplomatically by fostering stronger ties with countries like the United States, Israel, Afghanistan, and key Asian nations. The strategic partnership with the US, in particular, has been a critical element in countering Pakistan’s actions. India’s diplomatic push for greater support in the fight against terrorism has also seen success, with countries increasingly recognizing Pakistan’s role in harboring terror groups.
c. Support for Balochistan and Kashmir: India has also used diplomatic channels to highlight human rights violations in regions like Balochistan and Jammu and Kashmir, portraying Pakistan’s policies in these areas as oppressive. India’s statements on these issues often garner significant attention, especially when Pakistan’s actions are seen as violations of international norms.
2. Military Measures: Countering Cross-Border Terrorism
India’s military strategy against Pakistan has evolved in response to growing security threats, especially from cross-border terrorism. Over time, India has opted for both offensive and defensive strategies to safeguard its national interests.
a. Surgical Strikes: One of the most high-profile military responses was the 2016 surgical strikes, where the Indian Army targeted terror launch pads across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a direct retaliation for the Uri attack, and it sent a strong message to Pakistan regarding India’s ability and resolve to respond to terrorism. The strikes were highly publicized, underscoring India’s growing military capabilities and willingness to use force when necessary.
b. Airstrikes: In February 2019, India carried out airstrikes on a terrorist camp in Balakot, Pakistan, following the Pulwama attack, which claimed the lives of 40 Indian paramilitary soldiers. The Indian Air Force’s precise targeting of a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot was an unprecedented move that marked a significant escalation in India’s military strategy. The airstrike signified India’s commitment to responding decisively to terrorism, and while it resulted in a temporary military standoff, it solidified India’s position against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.
c. Strengthening Border Security: India has invested heavily in strengthening its border security infrastructure, particularly along the LoC and the International Border (IB) with Pakistan. The deployment of additional troops, surveillance technologies, and the construction of defensive barriers has bolstered India’s ability to thwart infiltration attempts by terrorists.
3. Economic Measures: Shaping Pakistan’s Economic Landscape
India has also employed economic measures as part of its strategy against Pakistan. While direct sanctions on Pakistan are limited due to global economic interdependence, India has taken steps to create economic pressure.
a. Trade and Economic Isolation: India’s economic leverage has primarily been seen through trade and regional economic partnerships. India has consistently limited trade with Pakistan, especially in the wake of major conflicts and terrorist attacks. The most significant move was the revocation of Pakistan’s Most Favored Nation (MFN) status in 2019, following the Pulwama attack. This decision effectively curtailed bilateral trade, putting economic pressure on Pakistan, which had been reliant on trade with India for several key commodities.
b. Regional Economic Influence: India’s growing influence in regional organizations such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has allowed India to reduce Pakistan’s influence in the region. By fostering stronger economic ties with neighboring countries, India has further isolated Pakistan economically.
c. Water Dispute: India has also utilized water resources as an economic tool. The Indus Waters Treaty, which governs water distribution between India and Pakistan, has been a contentious issue for decades. India has, at times, used its control over water flows from the rivers that originate in its territory to Pakistan as leverage, signaling that it can modify water-sharing arrangements if necessary. India’s control over the construction of dams and infrastructure on these rivers can significantly impact Pakistan’s water supply.
4. The Role of National Security Policies and Strategies
India’s comprehensive national security strategy incorporates diplomatic, military, and economic measures as key pillars. The overarching goal is to safeguard India’s sovereignty, counter terrorism, and prevent Pakistan from using asymmetric warfare to destabilize the region. As part of this strategy, India has also strengthened its internal security mechanisms, enhanced its counter-terrorism operations, and improved cooperation with global security partners.
Conclusion: A Complex Relationship
India’s strategic measures against Pakistan reflect a multi-pronged approach that combines diplomatic pressure, military readiness, and economic influence. While these measures have yielded some success, the relationship between India and Pakistan remains fraught with challenges, and the path to lasting peace in the region remains uncertain. India’s continued focus on countering terrorism, asserting its sovereignty, and isolating Pakistan on the global stage will likely remain central to its foreign policy for the foreseeable future.
As both countries navigate a complex and tense relationship, the international community will play a crucial role in fostering dialogue and promoting peace, ensuring that these strategic measures do not escalate into further conflict.