Without Human Security, National Security is Meaningless Ramani Atkuri Tells Ghazala Wahab

In this interview on Force Book Chat, Ramani Atkuri, author of 'Staying Alive: A Philosopher's Guide to Peace', converses with Ghazala Wahab about the interconnectedness of human security and national security. Atkuri argues that national security cannot exist without human security, pointing out the disproportionate spending on defense compared to crucial areas like public health and basic needs, citing India's allocation of 1.84% of GDP to health versus defense spending. She emphasizes that human security encompasses various dimensions including food, health, water, and environmental security, and that these must be prioritized. Atkuri also touches upon the challenges faced in regions like Odisha and Chhattisgarh, India, where access to basic healthcare is limited, and the issue of caste and class impacting access to services. The discussion also briefly touches upon the concept of the 'jholla chaap' doctor and the need for a more robust public health infrastructure, with a critique of the current system's shortcomings in reaching remote populations. The conversation extends to the global perspective, where countries like China and Sweden are highlighted for their differing approaches to health and defense spending. Atkuri advocates for a holistic approach to security, where the well-being of individuals is central to national security policies.