- The Rafale deal is Modi’s ‘masterstroke’ – Rediff.com (June 2, 2015)
Under the present Defence Procurement Procedure, it would have been a nightmare, and a long, long one at that, to build 108 Rafales in India. Modi realised this and took the wise decision, though it is a definitive setback for his Make in India scheme,’ says Claude Arpi.
- Modi’s ‘Yugantar’ moment – Asian Age (April 17, 2015)
It was perhaps the first time that a PM considered the defence procurement priority of the country over the babus’ and other considerations… and over his own pet project ‘Make in India’, which will now be delayed for years
- The benefits of having a Gujarati Prime Minister – Rediff.com (April 13, 2015)
Narendra Modi knows how to calculate and remain pragmatic.
Take the unexpected Rafale deal — perhaps the first time a PM has considered the country’s defence procurement as a priority, over the considerations of the babus’ and over his own ‘Make in India’ project,’ says Claude Arpi.
- Rafales and Sri Aurobindo – Blog (April 11, 2015)
Another highlight of Modi’s first day in Paris (he arrived late in the evening of the previous day) was the visit to UNESCO and his speech on Indian and Universal values.
Before reaching the main auditorium, he was received by Madam Irena Bokova (read my interview with the UNESCO’s Director General) in front of Sri Aurobindo statue outside the building.
- Bon appetit Mr Modi! – Rediff.com (April 9, 2015)
‘Make in India’ will be central to Mr Modi’s visit to Europe and Canada. It is difficult to predict what will happen with the Rafale deal, but if it goes through, it will undoubtedly become the ‘Mother’ of all ‘Make in India’ projects,’ says Claude Arpi.
- High on potential, and high on hopes too – The Pioneer (April 9, 2015)
During Modi’s France visit, it is difficult to predict what will happen with the Rafale deal, but if it goes through, it will become the ‘mother’ of all ‘Make in India’ projects and herald a number of win-win situations for India
