‘Two-front war no longer a possibility—It’s a reality’: Army chief Upendra Dwivedi fires warning shot

Global South is being hindered by China’s growing economic and strategic clout, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi said on Sunday. Delivering the fourth General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture in Delhi, he highlighted the increasing complexity China’s rise brings to global geopolitics.

“The rise of China as a dominant economic and strategic force adds complexity, creates competition, and hampers India's effort to be the natural leader for the Global South,” General Dwivedi stated.

He urged India to look towards Africa as a future power centre, recognising its potential role in the shifting global order. Despite its demographic and geographic advantages, India remains at a relatively lower global standing, he observed.

“With the democratic shift and resource control race, we need to look at possibilities of Africa as a future power centre… India’s position will remain pivotal due to its geography, demography, democracy, prosperity, soft power, and inclusive approach,” he said.

Roadblocks in Global Influence

General Dwivedi pointed to the obstacles India faces in shaping international policies. He noted that despite its credentials—the largest population, the world’s largest democracy, and a key geostrategic location—India continues to struggle for greater influence.

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“We have been repeatedly blocked, leaving us with little ability to shape key international decisions directly. Even BRICS has faced setbacks. Its purported attempt to upend the mighty US dollar has invited an open pushback from the Trump administration. In light of the same, we need to closely watch SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation),” he said.

The Growing China-Pakistan Threat

General Dwivedi also made a veiled reference to the growing