Indian Power

India successfully launched its first ICBM last week.  The test flight was another step towards the nation establishing itself as a major power.  Of course, India is one of the largest countries on Earth in area, the second most populous nation, and the largest democracy in terms of population, so it certainly has a case for being respected as a major power.  The Indians hope an expanding economy, a growing middle class, increasing military prowess, and a developing technology base will put it over the top.

The ICBM is capable of hitting not only India's mortal enemy, Pakiatan, but China, Iran, and parts of Europe, as well.  The new missile can no doubt be seen as benefiting from the successes of the Indian space program, which has put several satellites into Earth orbit and has flown one successful lunar probe mission.

The Indian ICBM test flight produced virtually none of the international uproar caused by North Korea's attempted launch of an Earth observation satellite a few days before, even though both nations already possess nuclear bombs.  That difference comes down to trust.  India is a known quantuty on the world stage, active in international politics.  All other countries might not agree with India, but they are more or less comfortable New Delhi is responsible.  On the other hand, North Korea is secretive and isolationist, and most of what the world does know about Pyongyang's policies and intentions doesn't necessarily inspire confidence.