Introduction:

• The book “The Allure of Battle” by Cathal Nolan challenges traditional military history narratives, emphasizing the significance of endurance and technology over decisive battles and strategic brilliance.

• In the context of India’s evolving National Security Strategy, the author argues for an emphasis on domestic defense production, highlighting the eroding distinction between civilian and military technology.

• This editorial explores the connection between knowledge (Shaastra) and weapons (Shastra) and proposes the inclusion of global university rankings as a strategic goal for India@100.

Changing Geopolitics and Technological Shifts:

• The global landscape, especially with regard to the U.S.-China relationship, is undergoing significant changes.
• The U.S. is reevaluating its stance on China, aiming to restrict access to foundational technologies.
• The intertwining of economic and national security considerations is exemplified by concerns over “friendshoring.”
• China’s response, banning certain tech products due to security concerns, indicates the growing importance of technology in geopolitical dynamics.
• Additionally, Pakistan’s persistent hostility toward India adds another layer to India’s strategic challenges.

Historical University-Military Partnerships:

• The historical context reveals the deep connections between universities and the military, with examples such as MIT’s contributions during World War II.
• The symbiotic relationship between academia and defense, facilitated by key figures like Vannevar Bush, shaped not only military advancements but also the birth of Silicon Valley.
• The editorial underlines the historical significance of such collaborations in shaping technological landscapes.

Global University Rankings: A Controversial Goal:

• While global university rankings are criticized as popularity contests, unreliable, and ideologically driven, the editorial argues for their importance.
• Despite the criticism, universities worldwide actively engage with rankings, making them a valuable tool for management and publicity.
• The editorial explores the characteristics that contribute to high rankings and points out China’s success in targeting rankings early.

Recommendations for India’s University Strategy:

• To improve its global university rankings, the editorial suggests five interventions for India.
• These include overinvesting in selected government universities, merging research labs, concentrating research funding, incentivizing corporate research at local universities, and introducing performance-based funding.
• The editorial argues that these measures could rapidly enhance India’s performance, leveraging the potential of existing institutions.

Defense Technology Council and Industry-Government Coordination:

• The proposed Defense Technology Council in India, chaired by the Prime Minister, is seen as a positive step.
• The inclusion of academia in the council is expected to enhance project management, addressing concerns raised by the CAG about delays in defense projects.
• The editorial underscores the importance of improved coordination between universities and the government to foster industrial growth and strengthen national security.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the editorial advocates for a strategic alignment between India’s National Security Strategy and global university rankings. It posits that investing in education, research, and technology can be a catalyst for national security, echoing the interconnectedness of Shaastra (knowledge) and Shastra (weapons).

The proposed measures aim to position India as a formidable force in the evolving geopolitical landscape, recognizing the role of academia in shaping the future of defense and technology.