Dynamics of Deterrence & Strategic Equilibrium in South Asia

In the post Cold War era, nuclear weapons have again gained significance. Nuclear weapons have no military ulity but serve the purpose of deterrence and peace. Their ulity is condional to their non-usage. Possession of nuclear weapons can only become worthwhile for a state if these weapons are effecvely craed in the naonal security and defence policy. In South Asia, India and Pakistan have adopted various measures to strengthen their deterrence postures. To understand the growing risks in the region, it is imperave to be cognizant of the trends and development in deterrent equaon pivong around physical capabilies, involving quanficaon, and psychological stresses, involving posturing and signalling. In South Asia, nuclear and convenonal asymmetries are growing compelling Pakistan to increase its reliance on nuclear weapons to maintain regional strategic equilibrium. This situaon may lead to regional arms race if these trends connue to flourish.