The success of the trade and economic partnership will depend upon the ‘quality’ and ‘reliability’ of technology transfer. Why should India be treated differently to Japan or Britan in matters of technology transfer? Why DAE l in the ‘entity’ list still ? No dumping of 2nd grade/obsolete technology please. Neither should India be left holding as ‘junks’ of latest equipment due to some sudden ‘sanctions’ for whatever reasons? India on its part should also ‘open’ its market to the U.S. and ‘protectionism’ on either should be shunned.’Outsourcing’ and loss of jobs to Indians is a real issue there even if it is misplaced. It will be real challenge for Obama to convince Americans about ‘Indians not ‘stealing jobs’. Further, on the India side, although it is supposed to be an economic partnership of two equals, we all know it is not because of the gulf of gap in the Agriculture sector, GDP, per capita income, etc. It is not just on the political front but more so on the economics front vis-à-vis U.S that our economist PM will be tested , because the co-operation must necessarily result in the percolation of economic benefits lower down and not just in producing more billionaires.
Obama’s visit was a grand success, no question about it. The credit for it must go to both Obama as well as to MMS who seems to have some uncanny way to strike a unique chord with american presidents; earlier with Bush and now with Obama !After the election drubbing back home and also somewhat first day hiccups of start of the India tour ,the way Obama deftly made up and eventually ended up the winner speaks volume of his abilities and statesmanship. No wonder he became the first non-white american president and don't be surprised if he bounces back from the low ‘approval ratings’ to get re-elected for the 2nd term. In respect of India’s claim to UNSC, even otherwise U.S. not supporting doesn’t make much sense given the type of Indo-US relations the two countries aspire to have as also the fact that except for China, India enjoys support of the other three countries. Of course it is not going to be easy given the past differences for the two countries to forge a ‘strategic partnership’--- whatever that means. An economic partnership with minimal or no military alliance should make a good start.
Must we demean ourselves by begging for the permanent seat. India's achievement is such that the whole world is applauding it. This achievement was made despite the wars and terrorism that it has to endure and without a permanent seat in the UN. India should ignore the UN; it is an illegitimate organisation without the largest democracy and second largest country being given its due recognition.
