New Delhi: In the wake of US President Donald Trump reportedly allocating USD 397 million for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet maintenance, the Congress Tuesday questioned the Modi government’s diplomatic strategy and called for a reassessment of India’s foreign policy priorities to safeguard national interests.
There was no immediate reaction from the government or the ruling BJP on the matter.
Congress’ media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said the recent decision by President Trump to allocate USD 397 million for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet maintenance raises critical questions about the Modi government’s diplomatic efficacy.
This move, reminiscent of the 2022 Biden administration’s USD 450 million package for the same purpose, highlights a pattern of US military support to Pakistan, he said in a post on X.
Such actions potentially compromise India’s security interests, especially given the historical use of F-16s by Pakistan against India, Khera said.
During the UPA years (2004-?2014), India and the United States significantly deepened their strategic and defence cooperation across multiple domains, including military modernisation, technology transfer, nuclear energy, and counter-terrorism, he pointed out.
The robust diplomatic and strategic initiatives taken during the UPA years deepened India-US relations, strengthening India’s defence capabilities and global influence, Khera asserted.
Historically, the Congress has championed a balanced and proactive foreign policy, fostering non-alignment along with strategic autonomy, he said.
“Furthermore, recent defence negotiations have raised concerns. The proposal to acquire F-35 fighter jets from the US has been met with criticism due to high costs and operational challenges. Elon Musk, for instance, has labelled the F-35 as ‘junk’, questioning its efficacy.
“Additionally, Russia has offered to produce its advanced Su-57 jets in India, presenting a potentially more viable alternative,” the Congress leader said.
In light of these developments, it is imperative to question the Modi government’s diplomatic strategy, Khera said.
Is there a comprehensive plan to address the implications of US military aid to Pakistan, he asked.
How does the government intend to ensure that India’s security concerns are not sidelined in the pursuit of high-value defence procurements, Khera further asked.
A reassessment of our foreign policy priorities, drawing from the Congress party’s legacy of strategic foresight, is essential to safeguard national interests, Khera asserted.
In another post, Khera also posed five questions to the Modi government on reciprocal tariffs by the US.
How does the government plan to protect the interests of domestic farmers, who make up 45.76 per cent of the workforce, in light of potential increased imports from the US, he asked.
“Will the government now consider changes in domestic policy, particularly the legalisation of MSP, to provide basic income support to Indian farmers? What assurances will the Indian government secure to prevent India from becoming a dumping ground for cheap US agricultural imports?” Khera said.
How does the government plan to safeguard the MSME sector, whose production will be severely impacted by costly exports and increased competition from foreign products, Khera further asked.
“What will be the impact of reciprocal tariffs on India’s GDP?” the Congress leader said.
PTI