India responds firmly to terror but faces regional challenges

Source: The post India responds firmly to terror but faces regional challenges has been created, based on the article “India-Pakistan tension and the Subcontinent’s challenge ” published in “Indian Express” on 9 May 2025. India responds firmly to terror but faces regional challenges.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Security-Security challenges and their management in border areas – linkages of organized crime with terrorism.

Context: The Pahalgam terror attack prompted India to conduct retaliatory air strikes in Pakistan and PoK. This has sharpened India’s posture against cross-border terrorism and highlighted the enduring challenges in ensuring peace and stability in South Asia.

For detailed information on Global unity against terrorism is falling apart read this article here

India’s Firm Retaliation Strategy

1. Clear Response to Terror Attacks: India has openly declared it will strike back against terrorism originating from Pakistan and PoK. The Indian Air Force targeted multiple sites, delivering a strong message.
2. Use of Diplomatic and Economic Pressure: In addition to air strikes, India has employed non-military tools to isolate Pakistan. These include diplomatic messaging and other measures to increase pressure.
3. Unified Domestic Political Support: India’s political leadership is united in supporting a tough response. This consensus reflects strong national backing for firm action.

Limits of Escalation and Regional Risks

1. High Costs of Full-Scale War: A full war would damage both nations severely. Neither India nor Pakistan can afford long-term military conflict without hurting their people and economies.
2. Dangerous Pattern of Retaliation: The region risks slipping into tit-for-tat violence. Pakistan justified the Pahalgam attack by referring to a prior incident, continuing the blame game.
3. Limited Trust from Global Community: Few countries fully accept one-sided narratives. While India’s version has more support, Pakistan has also found backers.

Need for Diplomatic Reset

1. Weak External Mediation Today: Earlier India-Pakistan wars ended swiftly due to international pressure. Today, such diplomatic leverage may not be available, raising the stakes of escalation.
2. Call for Long-Term Security Thinking: Once hostilities ease, both sides must reflect on who gains from continued disputes. Real security requires economic and social integration.
3. Abandonment of Past Frameworks: The 2000–2007 Vajpayee-Manmohan-Musharraf peace initiative, which once offered a framework for resolving disputes, has been abandoned. Currently, no credible diplomatic effort exists to guide India and Pakistan toward lasting regional peace and security.

Regional Leadership Deficit

1. No Long-Term Vision for Peace: South Asia lacks leaders focused on peace and development. Historical burdens and internal divisions continue to dominate political priorities.
2. Neglect of Neighbourly Relations: Countries in the region often seek global partnerships while ignoring regional cooperation. This undermines sustainable growth and peace.
3. India’s Growth Faces Vulnerabilities: India has made economic gains, but any prolonged conflict can derail its growth. Pakistan may seek to exploit this strategic vulnerability.

The Cost of Unrealistic Ambitions

1. Fantasies of Territorial Reclaim: Political rhetoric about reclaiming Kashmir or PoK has little practical value. Realists understand the high costs of altering the status quo.
2. Growth Needs Regional Stability: India’s economic rise—now surpassing Japan—needs peace in its neighbourhood. Ignoring regional concerns could hinder its progress.
3. Neighbours Want Shared Benefits: India’s neighbours want inclusion in its success. A strategy based on pressure risks alienating them and increasing regional tensions.

Question for practice:

Evaluate India’s post-Pahalgam response strategy and its implications for regional peace and stability in South Asia.