Not every Indian supports the idea of starving 250 million people of fresh water. That would be catastrophic—morally, regionally, and environmentally. I count myself among those who believe that long-term peace and sustainability must prevail over punitive instincts.
However, our neighbors in Pakistan must also understand: these developments around water and infrastructure aren't spontaneous—they're deliberate and strategic. India has begun laying the groundwork. The question is: will the Pakistani establishment recognize this shift before it's too late, or will it fall into the "boiling frog" syndrome—acting only when the damage is irreversible?
Let’s also acknowledge the changing balance of power through an economic lens.
- In 2016, when India conducted the surgical strikes, our GDP stood at $2.16 trillion. Pakistan's GDP was $313 billion.
- In 2019, during the Balakot air strikes, India's GDP had grown to $2.9 trillion, while Pakistan’s was $320 billion.
- Now, in 2025, following Operation SINDOOR, India's GDP is at $4.19 trillion. Pakistan’s stands at approximately $380 billion.
The takeaway is clear: with each crisis, India returns to the table stronger—economically and militarily. It can afford the risks of escalation and strategic signaling. The question Pakistan must ask itself is—can it match that trajectory? Can it bear the costs of continued brinkmanship?
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