Vantage Point Vol. 2 Issue 6: A Newsletter on Non-Traditional Security
Vantage Point Vol. 2 Issue 6: A Newsletter on Non-Traditional Security
Issue Commentary by Pratyush Pran Sarma | Gender Equality and Security by Aryaa Roy Choudhury | Looking/Acting East by Anand KT Nambiar | Book Review by Aishini Prasad
The sixth issue of Vantage Point explores the evolving landscape of non-traditional security threats, from economic warfare and gender-based violence to human trafficking and regional identity politics. With a focus on India’s internal and cross-border challenges, this edition offers critical insights into how diplomacy, legal reform, and social awareness intersect with national and human security
India and the New Trade and Tariff War
Pratyush Pran Sarma analyzes the impact of the U.S. administration’s 25% tariff on auto imports, which threatens India’s export-heavy auto component industry. Companies like Tata Motors and Eicher face vulnerabilities, while others diversify into Asian markets. The article emphasizes the need for India to strengthen diplomatic ties and diversify trade partnerships to build long-term economic resilience.
Forsaken Half: Gender Security in Conflicts and Wars
Aryaa Roy Choudhury highlights the disproportionate impact of armed conflict on women and children, with gender-based violence (GBV) used as a weapon of war in places like Bosnia, Rwanda, and Syria. Despite international resolutions and legal frameworks, weak enforcement and deep-rooted social stigma hinder justice. The article calls for integrated legal, social, and institutional reforms to break the cycle of violence.
India-Myanmar Cooperation on Non-Traditional Security Issues: The Case of Human Trafficking
Anand KT Nambiar explores the rise of human trafficking and employment scams targeting Indian IT professionals, who are lured to Myanmar and forced into cybercrime operations. India has rescued hundreds of victims, but challenges persist due to Myanmar’s internal instability and militia-controlled regions. The article advocates for stronger bilateral cooperation, intelligence sharing, and public awareness campaigns.
Book Review: India Against Itself: Assam and the Politics of Nationality by Sanjib Baruah
Aishini Prasad reviews Baruah’s critical examination of Assam’s political identity, subnationalism, and ethnic tensions. The book critiques India’s centralized governance and argues for a more flexible federal structure to accommodate regional diversity. It blends historical context with contemporary analysis, offering a compelling case for rethinking Indian federalism.
