India’s National Security Concerns: Navigating the Influence of China and Pakistan

By Annunthra Rangan

India’s national security landscape is heavily influenced by its immediate neighbors, particularly the People’s Republic of China and Pakistan. The growing global influence of China, bolstered by its robust economy and formidable military, has raised significant concerns in New Delhi. Beyond its military might, China employs a range of subtle strategies to shape foreign policies and narratives that align with its interests, making it a complex adversary for India.

Historical Context of Chinese Influence

China’s intelligence operations in India can be traced back to British colonial times during World War II, when Chinese nationalists allied with the West began using propaganda to further their objectives. Over the decades, China has expanded its influence in India by engaging with various sectors, including journalism, academia, and think tanks, particularly those with Marxist leanings. This engagement has allowed China to gather intelligence on critical areas such as defense, space, nuclear capabilities, and information technology.

Controlling the Narrative

China’s influence operations are not limited to intelligence gathering; they also aim to control public narratives. By downplaying unfavorable historical accounts and amplifying its achievements, China seeks to reshape perceptions in India. This strategy extends to popular culture, with Bollywood being a notable target. The Chinese government has promoted favorable narratives through co-productions and collaborations with Indian filmmakers, as seen during the 2019 Beijing International Film Festival, where prominent Indian filmmakers participated under the auspices of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Cultural and Academic Infiltration

The establishment of Confucius Institutes and think tanks in India under the guise of cultural exchange has further facilitated China’s influence. These institutions aim to sway public opinion in favor of China by promoting pro-CCP narratives. Chinese influence extends to various sectors, including academia, where a prominent university in the National Capital Region has emerged as a hub for China-focused studies. However, concerns have been raised about the objectivity of research conducted under such programs, as they often align with narratives favorable to China.

The Role of Media and Journalism

China’s influence in Indian media is evident through substantial investments in digital entertainment platforms and news aggregators. Companies like Xiaomi and Tencent have invested millions in Indian platforms, allowing them to shape content and narratives. Furthermore, Chinese media outlets have been known to publish pro-China supplements in Indian newspapers, while Chinese-sponsored journalism fellowships have led to biased reporting on critical issues.

The case of journalist Rajeev Sharma, detained for espionage, highlights the risks associated with Chinese influence in Indian journalism. His writings, which advocated for pro-China positions, exemplify how Chinese interests can infiltrate Indian media narratives.

Social Media Manipulation

China’s dominance in social media is reflected in its investments in various platforms, where it employs tactics reminiscent of Cold War-era espionage. The "50 Cent Army," a group of internet trolls, is tasked with shaping pro-China narratives online while disrupting critical conversations. This manipulation extends to sensitive data vulnerabilities, raising concerns about espionage and blackmail.

India has responded to these threats by banning several Chinese-funded apps and implementing stricter regulations on Chinese nationals entering the country. Pro-China narratives have been countered by Indian social media users, particularly during periods of heightened tension, such as the Ladakh standoff.

Collaborative Misinformation Campaigns

China’s collaboration with Pakistan in misinformation campaigns further complicates India’s security concerns. During the Ladakh standoff, fake accounts originating from Pakistan spread disinformation about the border situation, showcasing the coordinated efforts to undermine India’s position. Reports of Chinese agencies hacking accounts worldwide to disseminate propaganda have prompted social media platforms to take action against suspected Chinese-controlled accounts.

India’s Countermeasures

In light of these growing threats, India has implemented a series of proactive measures to counter China’s influence across various sectors. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has tightened academic collaborations with Chinese institutions, requiring prior approval for any engagements. This scrutiny extends to existing agreements, ensuring that no soft influence infiltrates Indian academia unchecked.

Additionally, new visa restrictions for Chinese nationals have been imposed, requiring security clearance for entry into India. The removal of Mandarin from the list of suggested foreign languages in India’s National Education Policy signals a significant shift in policy aimed at reducing Chinese influence.

Strengthening Ties with Alternative Partners

India’s strategy to counter China’s influence includes fostering partnerships with Taiwan and other regional allies. By engaging Taiwanese Mandarin teachers and think tanks, India aims to build a network of support that aligns with its strategic interests. The establishment of the Chennai Centre for China Studies reflects India’s commitment to developing expertise on China and monitoring its global influence.

Conclusion

India’s heightened countermeasures against Chinese influence are driven by a combination of national security concerns and public sentiment following incidents like the Doklam standoff and the Galwan Valley clashes. While other South Asian nations may balance their relations with China, India has taken a firm stance to curtail Chinese influence through academic restrictions, policy reforms, and strategic alliances. As India navigates this complex geopolitical landscape, it remains vigilant in safeguarding its national interests against the multifaceted challenges posed by China and Pakistan.

—The writer is a Research Officer at Chennai Centre for China Studies. Her research interests constitute China-WANA (West Asia and North Africa) relations and human rights.