M. S. Prathibha

Dr. M. S. Prathibha is an Associate Fellow at the East Asia Centre of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA), specializing in China's strategic and nuclear policies. She serves on the Editorial Board of Strategic Analysis (Routledge) and has published extensively in journals including Strategic Analysis and China Report (Sage).

Her educational background includes:

• PhD from Chinese Studies Division of East Asia Centre, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University
• Master's in International Studies from Stella Maris College, Chennai (Best Dissertation Award winner)
• Bachelor's in Mathematics from Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai
• Fellowship at School of Political Science and International Studies, Beijing Normal University (2009-2011)

Dr. Prathibha's research focuses on China's nuclear policy, strategic force modernization, Chinese views on war and strategy, Chinese foreign relations, and Chinese civilization and philosophy. Her work examines the evolution of China's military capabilities, nuclear posture, and strategic thinking, with particular attention to India-China relations and regional security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific. She analyzes how China's military modernization affects strategic stability and how Chinese strategic culture shapes its foreign policy approaches.

Her recent publications reveal a strong focus on China's nuclear developments, missile capabilities, and strategic thinking. The articles show increasing attention to China's nuclear posture evolution, PLA modernization, and the implications for regional security architecture. Her work demonstrates expertise in analyzing Chinese strategic documents, military exercises, and technological developments within their broader political and historical contexts.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• Best Dissertation Award during her Master's program
• Human Resource Development (India) and China Government Scholarship
• Membership on the Editorial Board of Strategic Analysis (Routledge)

Dr. Prathibha has conducted significant field research, including field trips to China in 2015 and 2016, which informs her analysis of Chinese strategic thinking and military developments. Her work bridges academic research and policy relevance, providing insights for strategic decision-makers while maintaining scholarly rigor. Her publications appear in both academic journals and policy-oriented outlets, demonstrating her ability to translate complex strategic issues for diverse audiences.

Her research activities center on the East Asia Centre at MP-IDSA, where she contributes to the institute's mission of advancing understanding of strategic issues in the Indo-Pacific region. Her work forms part of a broader research program examining major power dynamics, regional security architectures, and the evolving strategic environment in East Asia.