Jaipur, October 31 (Udaipur Kiran): The Gyan Shakti Think Tank (GSTT), operating under the aegis of the Sapta Shakti Command, organised a thought-provoking seminar titled “The China Challenge” at the Jaipur Military Station on Friday. The event was presided over by Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Army Commander, Sapta Shakti Command.
Eminent experts, including Lieutenant General S.L. Narasimhan (Retd), Ambassador Gautam Bambawale, Ambassador Satish Mehta, and Ms. Elizabeth Roche, Professor of International Relations at Jindal University, shared their insights on India’s evolving strategic and geopolitical relations with China.
Seminar Highlights
The discussion focused on the complex dynamics shaping India-China relations, particularly in the context of China’s rapid economic expansion, military modernisation, and technological advancements in both civil and defence sectors. Speakers highlighted how these developments have altered the balance of power in the region and emphasized China’s increasing presence across South Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
Panelists underscored challenges posed by India’s dependence on China for critical minerals, as well as the strategic implications of Beijing’s growing manufacturing and infrastructure investments in neighbouring countries. The seminar also presented data-driven analyses and policy recommendations to strengthen India’s resilience and counter China’s expanding influence.
Role of Gyan Shakti Think Tank (GSTT)
Formed in November 2024, GSTT aims to foster collaboration between the military, academia, and industry. The platform integrates domain expertise, technological innovation, and strategic foresight to support national security and developmental initiatives.
So far, the Think Tank has conducted several high-impact programmes, including seminars on Atmanirbharta in Defence Manufacturing, India’s Path to Viksit Bharat, Nation Building through Veterans, and various discussions on geostrategic and industrial trends. These initiatives have significantly strengthened civil-military synergy, innovation, and technology absorption, contributing to India’s defence self-reliance.
Army Commander’s Closing Remarks
In his concluding address, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh stressed the importance of staying abreast of regional geopolitical shifts and economic challenges, particularly those involving China. He noted that engaging with distinguished speakers—including former Ambassadors to China, Pakistan, Kuwait, Nepal, and Bhutan, as well as a former Defence Attaché to China—provides invaluable learning for young military leaders.
Expressing gratitude to the panelists, the Army Commander commended GSTT’s ongoing efforts to bridge knowledge and strategy, reinforcing India’s commitment to national security and progress.
This seminar marks another step towards strengthening strategic awareness, national capacity building, and India’s global standing, aligning with the broader vision of a Viksit Bharat.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.