Modern wars are 'contactless': EAM Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, speaking at the Kautilya Economic Conclave (KEC 2025) in New Delhi on October 5, highlighted how modern wars are now "contactless," relying on remote technology and standoff weapons.
He pointed to recent conflicts like Azerbaijan-Armenia, Ukraine-Russia, and Israel-Iran as examples of this new era.
Jaishankar's take on India's role in global competition
Jaishankar explained that global competition isn't just about armies anymore—it's also about who controls rare resources and strategic resources.
He warned that trade, finance, and supply chains can be used as weapons too.
For India, he said it's time to focus on building strong manufacturing and infrastructure while teaming up with different partners to stay independent in a competitive world.
Contactless wars and their global effects
He shared that India is aiming for resilience and self-reliance—strengthening what we can do at home while keeping good relationships abroad without picking sides.
According to Jaishankar, these "contactless wars" often have big impacts even when there isn't much direct fighting.