New Delhi, June 9: Major General (Retired) Dhruv Katoch has emphasized the critical importance of the Great Nicobar Project for India. He stated that this initiative positions India as a significant player in the region. The increased military presence will notably enhance India’s strategic relevance.
Commenting on a report from SIPRI regarding defense spending, Katoch noted, “The figures mentioned in the report regarding defense expenditure are likely accurate. However, discussing nuclear capabilities is sensitive and classified. India’s defense budget has historically been high due to our perilous borders with China and Pakistan. Additionally, maritime challenges are considerable. When we consider our population, which is the largest globally, our defense spending may not seem excessive, but it aligns with our needs.”
Regarding nuclear capabilities, he mentioned, “If we previously had 180 nuclear warheads and now have around 190, that is not surprising. India’s nuclear arsenal is not intended for use. Our delivery systems are land, air, and sea-based. This does not imply we will employ them; rather, it serves as a deterrent against other nations using nuclear weapons against us. If SIPRI’s report indicates this, I am not surprised. Nuclear weapons are not for waging war; they exist to prevent nuclear conflict.”
On the Great Nicobar Project, Katoch explained, “The entire Andaman and Nicobar Islands stretch from north to south, resembling a bow. There are 570 small islands in this region. The northern island is approximately 40 km from Myanmar’s Coco Island. The northern part connects Myanmar, while the southern part connects to Indonesia, with Great Nicobar Island being about 100 km from Indonesia. The channel between Great Nicobar and Indonesia is known as the 6 Degree Channel. Ninety percent of shipping from the Indian Ocean heads towards the Pacific Ocean through this channel, which passes through the Malacca Strait.”
Katoch added that India already has a naval base in the region, albeit small, which is being strengthened. As military presence increases, the strategic significance of this area will also rise. This is a major development for India, as it becomes a key player in the region, given the numerous islands at its disposal.
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K.K./ABM
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