KAUTILYA’S DEFENCE STRATEGY AND WAR POLICIES IN CONTEMPORARY WORLD

Abstract Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was an ancient Indian philosopher, economist, and strategist whose seminal work, the Artha shastra, offers profound insights into statecraft, defence strategies, and war policies. This paper explores the relevance and application of Kautilya’s defense strategies in the contemporary world. By analyzing secondary data sources, including historical texts, modern military doctrines, and scholarly interpretations, the study elucidates how Kautilya’s principles can inform and enhance current defence policies and strategic frameworks. The examination highlights the enduring nature of Kautilya’s insights, particularly in areas such as realpolitik, intelligence gathering, economic warfare, and the integration of military and civil strategies. The paper concludes that while the context has evolved, the foundational strategies proposed by Kautilya remain pertinent and can significantly contribute to modern defence and war policies. Keywords: Kautilya, Artha shastra, defence strategy, war policies, contemporary world, statecraft, realpolitik, intelligence, economic warfare, military strategy