Resource Competition,Nationalism and their Security Implications

Abstract

The current global debate about resource competition and resource nationalism is frequently situated only in the context of natural resources, particularly energy sources. However, an equally keen and perhaps more vital competition is taking place over capital, labour and technology, the other key factors of production. Nonetheless, the current and looming conflicts over natural resources centre on energy sources, particularly oil. Given its location and size, its economic and military strength and potential, and its position as a growing consumer of energy, India will be very much a part of global energy geopolitics in the coming years. Since energy flows and energy projects are often key determinants of many bilateral relationships, and invariably have a regional, at times even a global, significance, India needs to give much greater and more focused attention to energy issues in its security and foreign policy perspective.