Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses
मनोहर पर्रिकर रक्षा अध्ययन एवं विश्लेषण संस्थान

Anand Kumar

Dr. Anand Kumar is an Associate Fellow at the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA), New Delhi. After completing his PhD from the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on “Germany and UN Peacekeeping Operations in the post-Cold War Era”, he joined MP-IDSA in 2007. Over the years, Dr. Kumar has worked on strategic issues gaining reputation as a leading security expert. His areas of specialization at MP-IDSA are Counter-terrorism, South Asian politics, Bangladesh, Maldives, Proliferation of Small Arms and Low intensity conflicts. He has completed three projects at MP-IDSA: “Emerging Challenges and Opportunities in Indo-Bangladesh Relations”, “Terrorism Challenges in Bangladesh”, “Bangladesh and Its Security Relationship with External Powers” and is currently engaged in studying “China as a Factor in the US Engagement with South Asia.” Before joining MP-IDSA, he worked at the South Asia Analysis Group on similar themes. He has also been with the Institute for Conflict Management which specializes on counter-terrorism. Dr. Kumar also has a good understanding of European and North American politics.

Dr. Kumar was a visiting professor and ICCR Chair (Indian Ocean Studies) in the University of Dar-Es-Salaam (UDSM) from November 2017 to November 2019. He worked in the department of political science and public administration. In UDSM he taught Counter-terrorism, regional integration, peacemaking and conflict resolution. He also closely followed issues related to African politics, economics and security.

Dr. Kumar has authored three books and has an edited volume. His latest book Bangladesh and Its Security Relationship with External Powers was published by K W Publishers Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi in 2021. His book on the Maldives entitled “Multi-party Democracy in the Maldives and the Emerging Security Environment in the Indian Ocean Region” was published by Pentagon Press, New Delhi in 2016. His first book Return from the Precipice: Bangladesh’s Fight against Terrorism, and the edited volume The Terror Challenge in South Asia and Prospect of Regional Cooperation were also published by Pentagon Security International, New Delhi. He has published over 30 research papers in reputed journals and edited books. He has delivered lectures on security issues both in India and abroad. He has participated and presented papers in national and international conferences. His article “Shaikh Hasina’s Visit to India and the future of Indo-Bangladesh Relations” was published by the Royal Society for Asia Affairs, London in their official journal Asian Affairs. He has published hundreds of articles in leading newspapers and magazines, including “Insurgency in South Asia muted by war on terror,” The Washington Times, January 16, 2004, and “The Jihadi Next Door,” The Washington Times, May 20, 2010.

Associate Fellow

  • Email: anand_rai@hotmail.com, anandkmrai@gmail.com
  • Phone: +91 11 2671 7983

Publication

Anand Kumar’s Article ‘Banking on bailouts: Pak’s double game with IMF’ Published in Deccan Herald

Associate Fellow, Manohar Parrikar IDSA, Dr Anand Kumar’s article ‘Banking on bailouts: Pak’s double game with IMF’ has been published in Deccan Herald on 13 May 2025. India’s calls for moral safeguards in funding decisions are built on concerns over militarisation and terrorism, says Dr Kumar. Read Complete Article [+] Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author are personal and do not in any way reflect the views of MP-IDSA or the Government of India.

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Anand Kumar’s Article ‘Gabbard visit signals strategic shift’ Published in Deccan Herald

Associate Fellow, Manohar Parrikar IDSA, Dr Anand Kumar’s article ‘Gabbard visit signals strategic shift’ has been published in Deccan Herald on 21 March 2025.

It sets up India-US collaboration in broader areas of defence, intelligence, and counterterrorism, says Dr Kumar.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author are personal and do not in any way reflect the views of MP-IDSA or the Government of India.

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Anand Kumar’s Opinion Piece ‘In Myanmar, junta makes a poll pitch’ Published in Deccan Herald

Associate Fellow, Manohar Parrikar IDSA, Dr Anand Kumar’s opinion piece ‘In Myanmar, junta makes a poll pitch’ has been published in Deccan Herald on 14 February 2025.

Myanmar remains mired in civil war despite international pressure and prospects for peace appear grim, says Dr Kumar.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author are personal and do not in any way reflect the views of MP-IDSA or the Government of India.

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Achieving Regional Economic Integration in South Asia

  • Publisher: Pentagon Press
South Asia, home to nearly 1.9 billion people, remains one of the least integrated regions globally, despite its enormous economic potential and shared cultural ties. In an era where regional cooperation is vital for achieving sustained growth and addressing common challenges, South Asia lags behind other regions in terms of trade, investment, and cross-border connectivity. Achieving Regional Economic Integration in South Asia explores the barriers that have historically hindered economic cooperation in the region, from political tensions and infrastructure deficits to regulatory obstacles and economic asymmetries. This edited volume brings together leading scholars and policymakers to analyse these challenges and offer actionable solutions. Covering critical areas such as trade liberalisation, energy cooperation, digital connectivity, and the role of external actors, the book provides a comprehensive roadmap for fostering deeper economic ties among South Asian nations. Drawing on lessons from other successful regional blocs such as ASEAN and the European Union, this volume highlights how economic integration can enhance regional stability, promote growth, and lift millions out of poverty. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in South Asia`s economic future and the pathways to greater regional cooperation.
  • ISBN: 9788198285782 ,
  • Price: ₹ 1995/-
  • E-copy available

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Anand Kumar’s Article ‘A reset in ties’ Published in The Statesman

Associate Fellow, Manohar Parrikar IDSA, Dr Anand Kumar’s article ‘A reset in ties’ has been published in ‘The Statesman’ on 20 December 2024. Against a backdrop of rapidly deteriorating relations between India and Bangladesh, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent visit to Dhaka marked a crucial effort to restore bilateral ties, says Dr Kumar. Read Complete Article [+] Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author are personal and do not in any way reflect the views of MP-IDSA or the Government of India.

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