The Elephant and the Eagle-Is it the right match at the right time?

I am glad that USA has realised the significance of having a strong relationship with India and is making several overtures to India like the 'Nuclear Deal or No Deal' and the Joint Naval Exercise and similar stuff.

But there is a little uneasiness in my heart as to whether for India it is going to be a 'Good Deal' to get so close to USA at this time in the latter's world position. And what are going to be the covert terms imposed on the relationship by the 'Big Brother'. Already some of the Senators are saying that India should scale back its relations with Iran, and there might be behind-the-scenes pressure to settle with Pakistan on Kashmir in haste. And the close military exercises are bound to raise the hackles of the Bear and the Dragon.

I believe that India should play its cards very very carefully, mindful of the history that USA had deliberately ignored India for decades and was always somewhat skeptical and condescending towards India.

If there is one thing that makes the Americans tick it is the smell of money. All right, it works for India too to strengthen the economic and commercial ties with USA. So in that perspective, the Nuclear deal is a great opportunity for both countries. But the strings attached to the deal should be examined and should be made sure that they don't turn into a noose around India's neck.

India should always keep in mind that first of all it is an Asian Powerhouse on the way to become a World Player but it has still a long way to go. Cozying up too much to the Western Chief might not be a good idea at this time when that Chief and his Tribe are in all kinds of troubles.

The strong ties built over decades with Russia and the exciting possibilities of combining with China for dominance in the Commercial Arena could be the guiding posts for India. And I am sure there is more long-term prosperity on that path.

Of course, the West needs all the friends it could get now and India need not be shy of accepting the friendship, but in Reagan's phrase India should 'trust but verify' and take each deal on its own merits and examine the downside of getting tied too much to one Camp.

India has always been plowing its own very unique course and time has justified that approach. They should continue on that path.

There is however, one way Americans can show their good faith. How about a deal to Outsource the running of US Government to India. I am sure The Murthys and Premjis and the Raos of the IT world can work out a viable and profitable business plan for this and pull it off.

May be the means to a Nation's heart is through its Computers where you can play 'Soft' and 'Hard' to everyone's benefit