Although the Title is correct. It's not saying, We are close super power but It's all about path to become global power.
Let me give neutral prospective and not biased one:-
To become Global Power, 4 Things needed. 1)Economy 2) International Relation/Diplomacy 3) Defence Capability 4) Intention/Will power.
Economically - Yes, But After 10-15 years. Atleast we need 6-8 trillion $ GDP nominal. Most likely, we will continue to grow at 8%(+/- 2%) for next 10-15 years as huge scope still left. We have some good economist in both Congress and BJP.
Defence - Yes, But after 10 years only. By 2020, Most likely, We will able to complete our improvement and purchase/Development. We import 50% which needs to come down to 25% in next 10-15 years, As our needs are growing. Although economy also growing. But We need to have 75% home made, If we have to super power. A Country can't become Super power who is purchasing half of it's weapon. We will have strong defence but we need home made.
International Relation/Diplomacy - Yes, We have good relation across the worlds except few neighbours. But We need UNSC permanent seat too. Let see, what happens. But, Overall...it will take a decade more to have global influence.
Intention - We don't have. Our Leaders are not aggressive. Good or Bad, I don't know. But Congress Government is not aggressive. May be, we were not strong that's why ? Once, We will become strong on 1st 3 parameter, then may be Intention will automatically come.
So, After 10-12 years, We can become so called global power but not before that.
But Question is, Do we need ? NO. because it doesn't make any difference. Indeed, 2nd strongest country faces more threat than 3rd. Once, We will have strong influence, Many country won't like us. People don't hate US because they are wrong. They hate, because they are too strong. They do whatever they want to do. For example, China. more stronger china will become - More enemy she will create. Hence, We should become very strong but should not indulge in global power because it is liability and creates many problems.
IMHO, We should never become SUPER-POWER But Strong enough to face any kind of challenge.
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