This refers to Premvir Das' article "Navy to navy" (June 16). It is high time the world acknowledged the fact that China, a highly belligerent nation, cannot be countered by mere reconnaissance flights and issuing statements at various meets. China has set its eyes on becoming a major navy player and is making no bones about its intention to control trade through the South China Sea and even restrict access to the rich mineral bed in that area.
India, one of the few players that can actually engage meaningfully with China, and come to reasonable conclusions, must use its "might and wise" to become an equal player in this race. We have already lost to China on several other fronts. This should not be a repeat because water supremacy once achieved, cannot be reversed or countered easily. Increased thrust on indigenisation, more efficient navy infrastructure centres, an assertive stance coupled with the right dose of engagement is the only way forward, if both the dragon and the elephant are to coexist.
Gaurav Gupta New Delhi
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