Modi @ 8

‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’
India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy
Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’
India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

Ministry of External Affairs

Public Polic y Research Centre

UND E R THE GUIDAN CE O F

Dr. Sumeet Bha sin

P RE PA RED BY
Av n i S a blo k

June, 2022
Table of Content

Preface 6

1. Introduction 7

2. Major Highlights Of Achievements 10

2.1 Continuity with Change in a Pro-active Manner 10

2.2 Digital Diplomacy 16

2.3 Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief 18

2.4 Development Diplomacy 21

2.5 Indianization of Soft Power Diplomacy 24

2.6 Putting India First 30

3. Analysis 33

4. References 35
PREFACE
The trajectory of Indian Foreign Policy has remained unchanged since the advent of Shri
Narendra Modi as the prime minister of our country. Under his stewardship, the world has
come to recognise India’s soft power which has and can play an important role in shap-
ing the global order. Commenting on the role that India will play in the new world order,
Prime Minister Modi in 2018 underscored that India’s mettle and moral fibre is trusted
world over not only because it is one of the biggest markets in the world but because of
India’s foresighted policy and balanced approach.
India has been at the forefront of addressing diverse challenges confronting the world, in-
cluding global warming and climate change, and terrorism. To address the issue of climate
change, India brought forth a solution by proposing the formation of International Solar
Alliance (ISA). Similarly, to resolve the issue of terrorism, India, following a no compromis-
ing approach, appealed to the democracies world to unite so as to expedite the adoption
of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) in the UN General
Assembly without any further delay.
The transformation in Indian Foreign Policy from risk aversion and passive diplomacy of
the past dispensation to risk taking and pro-active diplomatic engagements in the Modi
era has been bearing fruits in the current challenging international environment. This
transformation has been aided by our nation’s rich cultural tradition and ideological val-
ues where the entire world has become a nest “यत्र विश्वम् भवति एक नीडम”
् . As India evolves and
progresses along multiple axis at a rapid rate it is converting crisis into opportunities and
promoting a more ‘Human-centric’ world order. For instance, during the pandemic India
showed the world the path of compassion and to openly embrace the world as a family,
which is the core philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. This approach of promoting
international cooperation without any prejudice was recently highlighted by UN General
Secretary in his article where he underscored, “We need to act together in the national and
global self-interest, to protect critical global public goods.”
As the world witnesses the way India is engaging the new world order, this document by
PPRC analyses major engagements and decisions implemented by the Union Government
since 2019by listing some key achievements of Indian foreign policy as undertaken by the
Ministry of External Affairs.

Dr Sumeet Bhasin
Director
Public Policy Research Centre

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 6

INTRODUCTION
Foreign policy of any country includes the activities and relationships of one state in its
interactions with other states. It is a set of strategies which are designed and implemented
systematically to manage the country’s relationships and interactions with other nations.
So far as the case of India is concerned, India follows its foreign policy not only for its own
interest but for the larger interest of the Global Community. Being the largest democracy
of the world, India has always followed the policy of peace and friendly relations with oth-
er countries, and also respected the sovereignty of other nations. India has well-adjusted
with the changing times and circumstances and always adhered to its core principles.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi since 2014, India has been consistently en-
hancing security capabilities, upholding its territorial integrity, promoting and facilitating
economic transformation in a pro-active manner; and at the same time, consistently en-
deavoring to implement the vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. Soon after coming to
power in 2019 again, Modi Government continued to work relentlessly in pursuit of the
core objectives. The Ministry of External Affairs is responsibly working on improving rela-
tions with neighboring countries, engaging with the extended neighborhood of South-
east Asia, Central Asia, and the major global powers in a fruitful manner.
The outcome-oriented engagements through strengthened bilateral, regional and multi-
lateral partnerships as well as by building influence in key global forums has further added
to the promotion of national interest of India. Indian diplomacy during the last three years
has witnessed a new vigor backed by our traditional culture and ideological principles,
such as Yoga, Ayurveda, वसधु वै कुटुम्बकम् (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam) and “Nishkama Karma”,
as India is creating partnerships on more equal terms and a generous one with smaller
countries.
Each one knows that the COVID-19 pandemic became the greatest challenge to the
world since the Second World War. It began as a health emergency and expanded into
an economic disruption, a geo-political shock and a social challenge of unprecedented
magnitude. India has firmly established its ancient values on the world stage by providing
necessary help to many nations and their people globally. Like other countries in the world
India was also affected by the Pandemic, but India not only succeeded in better manage-
ment in dealing with this pandemic at home as compared to the other countries across
the globe, but also extended assistance to the needy countries during the crisis.
MEA has revitalized its delivery mechanisms, particularly amidst the constraints posed by
COVID-19 Pandemic, so as to strengthen India’s foreign policy. It can be observed that in
the wake of the global pandemic various initiatives undertaken by India are a testimony to
the global reach and impact of Indian diplomacy.
The globalized world was being purely driven by economic agenda which became more
evident with the advent of the pandemic. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to
the G-20 had said that globalization should advance the collective interests of all human-
kind and should be based on fairness, equality and humanity.
India’s diplomatic efforts under Vaccine Maitri attained a human-centric process that

7 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

successfully helped in tiding the challenge by providing medical and other assistance to
more than 150 countries and vaccine to 98 countries. Such gestures have once again
proved India’s credentials as “pharmacy of the world”. Further, India’s efforts with regard
to humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief operations have been appreciated across
the globe. Following India’s footsteps, a number of countries came forward to help India
during the second wave. The world recognized that challenges in contemporary times
are becoming more complex and cannot be addressed solely by any single country and
requires collective efforts of all countries.
As far as India’s soft power capabilities are concerned, it has come to be recognized
globally. Its global image embedded in the notion of ‘unity in diversity’, is reflective of the
wide canvas of cultures and civilizations, which has, and continues to, attract many across
the world. India has shown the world the path of compassion and to openly embrace the
‘world as one family’.
Our pro-active diplomacy has been imbibed with a certain amount of risk-taking, depart-
ing from the risk aversion of past dispensations. Be it securing energy requirements for the
country or presenting clarity on Indian perception on the biased narratives, Prime Minister
Shri Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Shri S. Jaishankar has carried forward
the legacy of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji and Smt. Sushma Swaraj by not yielding to ex-
ternal pressure when it came to country’s national interest. This risk-taking and pro-active
diplomacy has firmly placed India on the world stage and every country is interested to
cooperate and collaborate with India now.
So far as the interaction with the International Organizations are concerned, during the
past few years, the Ministry of External Affairs catalyzed the emergence of international
organizations with constructive forward-facing agendas such as the International Solar
Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
Further, the Ministry continued its efforts to maintain and augment its position as a
pre-eminent player in the Indian Ocean Region through engagement with various In-
do-Pacific frameworks like the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), East Asia
Summit (EAS), Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), implementation of Prime Minister’s
vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) by enhancing a range of ca-
pacities, engaging with other countries, and fostering greater cooperation in the littoral
and promotion of strategic dialogues via minilateral forum such as QUAD. India has been
a constructive actor in developing an international system that is human-centric and has
been at the forefront of digital diplomacy during the current crisis by embracing niche
digital technology in the backdrop of COVID-19 Pandemic.
India’s role in evacuation process in Afghanistan and Ukraine is a major achievement
which has set an example across the globe. India not only safeguarded its own citizens but
other countries’ citizens as well, aligning with the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
At society level, major changes have been brought by India during the last few years. In-
dia has successfully implemented the world’s biggest sanitation campaign, and also, set
an example by focusing on achieving targets like elimination of TB by 2025, which is five
years ahead of the global target, and launched a people-led campaign to eliminate single
use plastic.

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 8

Last year, PM Modi has announced to celebrate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The key aspect
of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is to celebrate the elixir of new ideas and pledges that
are engraved in India’s rich heritage and culture as well as making it a festival of global
peace and development.
There is a change in the world perception as India continues to shape global agendas
and convert crisis into opportunities, not only for itself but also for the world at large.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat is actively exploring and leveraging foreign relations not only for
fruitful development at domestic level but also at international level. While addressing
the 74th Session of the United Nations in the year 2019, PM Narendra Modi underscored
how Indian foreign policy has become more people-centric and emphasized on the mot-
to – “Collective efforts, for growth of all, with everyone’s trust (sabka sath, sabka vikas,
sabka vishwas)”.
In this backdrop, the report has underlined the key achievements of the Ministry of Exter-
nal Affairs during the last three years which has set an example across the globe.

9 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

Major Highlights Of Achievements
As India celebrates 75 years of independence, Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, there is a good
cause to be confident about our nation’s prospects. But to be so, it is equally important that
one is fully aware of the opportunities and challenges that the world currently presents. In
this backdrop it is pertinent to analyze, as to how the ‘India way’ is shaping trajectory of
not only Indian Foreign Policy but also the world order.

2.1 Continuity with Change in a Pro-active Manner

Extending the Outreach of Neighbourhood First policy
India is engaging with its neighbours at both bilateral as well as multilateral platforms and
focuses on creating mutually beneficial, people-oriented, regional frameworks for stability
and prosperity. For instance, India is a founding member of both SAARC and BIMSTEC.
Activities under SAARC and BIMSTEC complement India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and
‘Act East’ policies. As underscored by the government (Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question
No.3692) :
“Our engagement with these countries is based on a consultative, non-reciprocal and
outcome-oriented approach, which focuses on delivering benefits like greater connectivity,
improved infrastructure, and stronger development cooperation in various sector area,
security and broader people-to-people contacts.”
Further, with Pakistan, the government has clearly stated that it ‘desires normal neighbourly
relations and is committed to addressing all outstanding issues bilaterally and peacefully
in accordance with the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration. However, the
government has a non-compromising policy when it comes to achieving sustainable
results as any meaningful dialogue can only be held in an atmosphere free from terror,
hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere.
It is pertinent to mention that India, as a result of proactive outreach with the international
community, successfully negated Pakistan’s attempts to paint an alarmist picture of the
situation in the region; interfere in India’s internal affairs and internationalise bilateral
issues. It has been made clear to Pakistan that India will not compromise on issues relating
to national security and will take firm and decisive steps to deal with all attempts to
undermine India’s security and territorial integrity.
“Our national position was, and remains, that matters related to Article 370 of the Indian
Constitution, are entirely an internal matter of India...The recent decisions taken by the Government
of India and our legislative bodies are intended to ensure that good governance is promoted, socio-
economic development is enhanced for our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.” - India’s
Ambassador, Syed Akbaruddin
As a result of our diplomatic outreach, both in India and abroad, there is a greater
understanding of India’s position that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the India
and that all matters related to it are internal to India. Countries have also called on Pakistan
to end its support to provide safe haven for terrorist groups operating on its soil, including
those targeting India, and to resolve issues, if any, with India bilaterally and peacefully.
Further, during the pandemic, the policy of putting Neighbourhood First remained one of

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 10

the fundamental pillars of Indian diplomacy.
Our neighbours were prioritized in our overseas Covid-19 assistance programmes. The
SAARC Covid-19 Emergency Fund was created with India contributing USD 10 million.
Also, work on a large number of development partnership projects in multiple sectors,
including connectivity projects, in the neighbourhood, went ahead. Throughout the
pandemic India has been stressing a ‘Human-centric multilateral order’ and prioritised
cooperation in the post COVID situation by using IT platforms for effective outreach and
monitoring of Covid vaccination not only in India but also in the extended neighbourhood.
Further, progress and consolidation was witnessed in each of the relationships with
countries in the region, including high-level visits such as the visit of the President of
India to Bangladesh on the historic occasion of the 50th Vijay Diwas in 2021, and the
inaugurated the ‘Mitali Express’- passenger train service on Dhaka-New Jalpaiguri- Dhaka
route through the Chilahati-Haldibari rail link by both the Prime Ministers as a part of
Bangladesh Prime Ministers foreign visit to West Bengal, India.
Prime Minister also hosted the 1st India-
Central Asia Summit, with the participation of
the Presidents of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic,
Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, in
a virtual format on 27 January 2022. This
was not only a first engagement of its kind
between India and the Central Asian countries
at the level of heads of government, but also a
reflection of India’s growing engagement with
the Central Asian countries, which are a part Figure 1: Prime Minister addressed the 1st In-
of India’s “Extended Neighbourhood”. dia-Central Asia Virtual Summit hosted by India in
January 2022 (Source: MEA Annual Report 2021-22)
Today, India is also providing all possible help
Afghanistan and Sri Lanka to address in view
their deteriorating economic situation. Since the Taliban came to power in Afghanistan,
India has supplied wheat and other essential food items and 500,000 COVID-19 vaccines
as humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. India, in its budget for 2022-23, has allocated an
amount of Rs 200 crore as development assistance to Afghanistan apart from allocating
Rs 100 crore for the Chabahar port project.
Rs 6,292 crore has been allocated by the government in the budget for development
assistance to countries in India’s neighbourhood as well as in Africa and Latin America. As
development assistance, Indian government allocated Rs 2,266 crore to Bhutan, Rs 750
crore to Nepal and Rs 600 crore to Myanmar. Also, as development aid, Rs 360 crore has
been earmarked for the Maldives, Rs 300 crore for Bangladesh and Rs 200 crore for Sri
Lanka respectively.
Considering the severe economic crisis in Sri Lanka, India agreed to provide a line of credit
of $ 1 billion to Sri Lanka. In the last two months, India fuel to Sri Lanka to deal with the
power crisis. Apart from this, help of food grains is also being sent so that they can get
some relief.
India’s necessary help to its neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka and Afghanistan in their

11 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

time of crisis is a testimony to the importance that India ascribe to its “Neighbourhood
First Policy”.
Engaging African Nations-Prime Minister Modi’s 10 Guiding Principles of India’s
engagement with Africa have been serving as an instrument in India’s multidimensional
relationship with Africa in the changing world. The 1st India-Angola Joint Commission
Meeting was held in September 2020, co-chaired by EAM and his counterpart from
Angola. 3 MoUs on Health, Training of Diplomats and Visa facilitation were signed during
the meeting. Our diplomatic presence in Africa further increased with the opening of two
more Missions during the year 2021-22 - in Mauritania, Liberia followed by the opening of
diplomatic Missions in Guinea Bissau and Cabo Verde in the subsequent year. Thus, India
expanded its diplomatic footprints globally by opening of 18 new diplomatic missions
in Africa taking total Indian Missions in the continent to 47. So far19 African countries
have become partners in India’s flagship project e-VidyaBharati for tele-education and
e-ArogyaBharati for telemedicine (e-VBAB) that offers scholarship to 15,000 African
students under this scheme to pursue online education in undergraduate, postgraduate
and diploma courses. India continued its development partnership association with Africa
by announcing various LoCs worth approximately USD 3 billion.
Further, e-VBAB project was also launched in 2019 that offers tele-medicine and continuing
medical education for African doctors, paramedics and patients and is completely funded
by the Government of India for its entire duration and will be open for participation to all
our partner countries in Africa.
India has gifted 150 tonnes of medical aid to more than 25 African countries to support
their response to the pandemic. Under the Government of India’s “Vaccine Maitri”
initiative, India has supplied 37.59 million doses (1.05 million doses under grant, 10.2
million dose under commercial and 26.38 under GAVI’s COVAX initiative) to 42 African
countries and 3, 25,000 doses to UN health workers and UN peace keepers. Under
humanitarian assistance, India has provided food aid worth of US$ 15.8 million to various
African countries to support their fight against hunger and poverty. At least 16 African
countries were provided various training programmes in India under the ITEC programme.
Over 4000 Indian nationals were repatriated to India under Vande Bharat Mission. India
assisted friendly African countries in overcoming the pandemic by providing 10 million
made in India Covid-19 vaccines to 18 countries in the region. India established Air
Bubble arrangements with Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Further, the travel
restrictions did not dampen India’s Africa Outreach Policy, as India actively engaged with
the countries in the region in a virtual format to conduct its scheduled engagements. EAM
held telephonic conversations with his counterparts from several countries.

India- Nordic Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 2nd India-Nordic Summit along with
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark, Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir of
Iceland, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre of Norway, Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson
of Sweden and Prime Minister Sanna Marin of Finland. This Submit was an opportunity to
review the progress of the India-Nordic relations since the 1st India-Nordic Summit, which
was held in 2018 in Stockholm.

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 12

During the Summit, the
Prime Ministers pledged
to continue to deepen
cooperation between
the Nordic countries and
India and focused their
discussions on key issues
related to international
peace and security,
including the conflict
in Ukraine, multilateral
cooperation, green
transition and climate
Figure 2: 2nd India-Nordic Submit hosted by the Danish Prime Minister
change, the blue
economy, innovation and digitalization. The Prime Ministers reaffirmed the importance
of free trade as a driver for achieving inclusive growth and realizing the Sustainable
Development Goals. Taking India’s lead the leaders stressed on a more ‘Human-centric
multilateral order’ and agreed that pressing challenges such as tackling climate change,
the COVID-19 pandemic, biodiversity loss and increasing food and energy insecurity across
the world required international cooperation, a collective response and global solidarity.
India and the Nordic countries affirmed their support for a rules-based international order
and for multilateral institutions and their commitment to work towards making them
more inclusive, transparent, and accountable with the aim of addressing global challenges
more effectively. This included working towards reform of the United Nations, including
of the Security Council, to make it more effective, transparent and accountable, and the
reform of the World Trade Organization, as well as strengthening collaboration on global
health issues, including pandemic preparedness and response. The Nordic Countries

Some Key Initiatives

Finland: Discussed about opportunities to expand cooperation in the fields of new and
emerging technologies like Al, quantum computing, future mobile technologies, clean
technologies and smart grids.
Norway: Discussed about the potential to deepen engagement in areas like blue
economy, renew- able energy, green hydrogen, solar and wind projects, green shipping,
fisheries, water management, rainwater harvesting, space cooperation, long-term
infrastructure investment, health and culture.
Sweden: Expressed satisfaction at the progress made by the Lead IT initiative. This was
a India-Sweden joint global initiative to set up a Leadership Group on Industry Transition
(Lead IT) in September 2019 at the UN Climate Action Summit to help guide the world’s
heaviest greenhouse gas emitting industries towards the low-carbon economy. Its
membership has now grown to 35 with 16 countries and 19 companies.
Iceland: Discussed about the ways to further strengthen economic cooperation,
especially in the sectors of geothermal energy, blue economy, Arctic, renewable energy,
fisheries, food processing. education including digital universities, and culture.

13 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

also reiterated their support for India’s
Permanent Membership of a reformed
and expanded Security Council.

QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue)

India is playing a major role in the
Indian Ocean Region by advancing
regional cooperation, building economic
capabilities, improving maritime security,
promoting freedom of navigation and
redressal of disputes in accordance
with international law. The ministry is
advancing this comprehensive agenda
via active participation in mechanisms
like the Indian Ocean Rim Association
(IORA), the East Asia Summit, Association
of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Defense Ministers Meeting Plus, ASEAN
Regional Forum, the Bay of Bengal
Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and
Economic Cooperation, and Mekong Figure 1: QUAD Leaders Applaud PM Modi's Pandemic
Response Source: MyGov
Ganga Economic Corridor.
Taking forward the concept of SAGAR
(Security and Growth for All in the Region), India is enhancing a range of capacities,
engaging with other countries, and fostering greater cooperation in the littoral. Keeping
in mind the growing assertiveness of China, India is not holding back and is balancing and
asserting its regional power stance. In the Narendra Modi era, one can witness an increase
in economic involvement, deepening defense and security cooperation and collaboratively
strengthening of liberal order in Asia.
All four navies of the QUAD members participated in their first joint exercise in over a decade
in November 2020. Prime Minister participated in the Quad Leaders’ Virtual Summit on
12 March 2021 and the first in-person Quad Leader’s Summit held in Washington DC on
24 September 2021. The QUAD leaders have put forth ambitious initiatives that deepen
ties and advance practical cooperation on 21st-century challenges: ending the COVID-19
pandemic, including by increasing production and access to safe and effective vaccines;
promoting high-standards infrastructure; combatting the climate crisis; partnering on
emerging technologies, space, and cybersecurity; and cultivating next-generation talent
in all of our countries.
Quad leaders recognize that the most immediate threat to lives and livelihoods in four
partner countries and the world is the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, Quad leaders
launched the Quad Vaccine Partnership and the Quad Partnership COVID-19 Dashboard
to help enhance equitable access to safe and effective vaccines in the Indo-Pacific and
the world. The Quad members have taken bold actions to expand safe and effective
COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing capacity, donated vaccines from our own supply, and
worked together to assist the Indo-Pacific in responding to the pandemic. Further, in order

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 14

to build on longstanding collaboration among four countries on cybersecurity, the QUAD
launched a Quad Senior Cyber Group to advance work between government and industry
on driving continuous improvements in areas including adoption and implementation
of shared cyber standards; development of secure software; building workforce and
talent; and promoting the scalability and cybersecurity of secure and trustworthy digital
infrastructure.
Further, in order to build on longstanding collaboration among four countries on
cybersecurity, the QUAD
launched a Quad Senior
“Quad leaders launch the Quad Fellowship, a
Cyber Group to advance
unique effort aimed at encouraging research and
work between government
and industry on driving innovation among young minds. This prestigious
continuous improvements in fellowship will offer our students great opportunities
areas including adoption and to pursue graduate and doctorate programmes in
implementation of shared science, technology, engineering and maths. It will
cyber standards; development encourage academic excellence and promote people-
of secure software; building to-people linkages between our countries.”
workforce and talent; and -Prime Minister Narendra Modi
promoting the scalability and
cybersecurity of secure and
trustworthy digital infrastructure.
Recently, Prime Minister Modi participated in the
second in-person Quad Leaders’ Summit in Tokyo,
Japan along with the other QUAD leaders. This was
the fourth interaction of the Leaders since their
first virtual meeting in March 2021, the Summit
in Washington D.C in September 2021 and their
virtual interaction in March 2022. While reiterating
their shared commitment to an inclusive Indo-Pacific
region, the leaders emphasized on the importance
Figure 1: The best of India's timeless crafts presented to the QUAD leaders
of upholding the principles of sovereignty, territorial by Prime Minister Narendra Modi

integrity and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Further, to strengthen cooperation with partners

Some Key Initiatives at the QUAD Tokyo Summit 2022

• Announced the formation of the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness
(IPMDA) for building a “faster, wider, and more accurate maritime picture of near-real-time
activities in partners’ waters.” While integrating three critical regions- the Pacific Islands,
Southeast Asia, and the Indian Ocean Region- in the Indo-Pacific, this common operating
picture will allow tracking of “dark-shipping” and other tactical-level activities.

15 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

• A Quad Climate Change Action and Mitigation Package (Q-CHAMP) was announced to
strengthen efforts towards green shipping, clean energy including green hydrogen and climate
and disaster resilient infrastructure.

• Launched the QUAD Fellowship a first-of-its-kind scholarship programme designed to build

ties among the next generation of scientists and technologists from the four member nations.
The QUAD Fellowship empowers exceptional STEM graduate students to advance research
and innovation throughout their careers with a lens of positive social impact.

• ‘Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity’ was launched, aimed at sharing a

commitment to a free, open, fair, inclusive, interconnected, resilient, secure, and prosperous
Indo-Pacific region that has the potential to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic
growth.

in the region, the leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for ASEAN’s unity and
centrality.
While reviewing Quad’s ongoing efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the Leaders
welcomed the enhanced manufacturing capacity of Biological-E facility in India and called
for the expeditious grant of EUL approval by the WHO so that delivery of vaccines can
commence. They also welcomed the gift of 525,000 doses of Made in India vaccines
by India to Thailand and Cambodia in April 2022 under the Quad Vaccine Partnership
and agreed on continuing to pursue a holistic approach to pandemic management by
addressing last mile delivery and distribution challenges, augmenting regional health
security through cooperation in genomic surveillance and clinical trials, and bolstering
global health security architecture.

2.2 Digital Diplomacy

The MEA has pioneered the use of digital
technologies and social media platforms to
engage with the public and with consistent
efforts. It has also garnered a place amongst
the top government organizations to efficiently
incorporate new technologies in its working.
These technologies and platforms have proved
to be of immense help in shaping up the Figure 3 The above dashboard shows the in-
narrative, communicating with the interlocutors, crease in social media followers across various
connecting with Indian diaspora and extending MEA handles. A toal of 7.38 million followers till
March 2022.
support in crisis situations. Also, the Ministry,
through its own handles and those of its Missions and Posts, is using its presence on
social media for a number of purposes.
They range from escalating its cultural diplomacy push, creating a shining narrative for
Brand India and promoting Indian culture, and even using an indigenously created online
portal to effectively and address consular grievances in a hands-on manner. It is evident
that MEA India has enthusiastically embraced the social media sphere and persistently

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 16

perseveres to enlarge its footprint in the new realm of diplomacy.
The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly changed the global geopolitical landscape and has
boosted the outreach of digital diplomacy. India accelerated its diplomatic engagements
at the highest levels in this rapidly evolving international environment. During 2021-22,
Prime Minister participated at the Summit Level meetings of G7, G20 and COP-26. Prime
Minister also chaired a United Nations Security Council session in August 2021, the BRICS
Summit and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Council of Heads of Government,
and hosted the first meeting of the India Central Asia Summit, in virtual format. He also
delivered a virtual message at the Eastern Economic Forum; and at the Global Covid-19
Summit. During these events, Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to reformed
multilateralism and reaffirmed India’s emerging role as “force for the good” in contributing
global solutions to global problems.
CoWIN (COVID vaccine intelligence Work) app was introduced by the ministry of
telecommunication, providing a digital platform for real time monitoring of COVID-19
vaccine delivery. And more interestingly, this is perhaps the very first time that any country
is making a software platform developed by its public sector open for the world. A total of
142 countries including – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Guyana, Antigua
& Barbuda, St. Kitts & Nevis and Zambia, among others, are keen to adopt CoWIN for
digitizing their vaccination drive of COVID-19. Further, in July 2021, the CoWin Global
Conclave was organized to showcase India’s digital capacities in fighting the pandemic.
During the recent official visit of the Prime Minister of Nepal Mr. Sher Bahadur Deuba
to India, both the Prime Ministers witnessed a video clip on the progress in construction
of the 132 Health facilities in Nepal, undertaken with US$ 50 million in post-earthquake
reconstruction grant. This and many other instances project the rise of technologies and
adaptability of new methods of digital communication that has tangibly simplified ways
of conversation and reaching agreement.
As the lead speaker in the session on digital transformation in the G7 Summit held in
Biarritz, France on 26 August 2019, as ‘Partners of Goodwill - Biarritz Partner’, Prime
Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s success in the field of digital and financial
inclusion. With the launch of BHIM UPI in Bhutan on 13 July 2021, it became the first
foreign country to adopt UPI standards for its QR deployment and the first country in the
immediate neighborhood to accept mobile-based payments through the BHIM app. And
recently, the use of Indian RuPay card in Nepal was jointly launched by the Hon’ble Prime
Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi and the Hon’ble Mr. Sher Bahadur Deuba, Prime
Minister of Nepal. This has opened new vistas for cooperation in financial connectivity
that is expected to facilitate bilateral tourist flows as well as further strengthen people-to-
people linkages between the neighboring countries.
The Ministry has consistently pursued a focused approach to optimize Information,
Communication and Technology (ICT) initiatives for harnessing the dividends of Digital
India and has been taking steps to implement different components of Digital India
Programme in the Ministry and all Missions/ Posts abroad. Four Mission Mode Projects
of e-Kranti (fourth pillar of Digital India Programme) namely e-office, e-procurement,
Immigration, Visa, Foreigners registration and Tracking System (IVFRT) and Passport Seva
Projects (PSP) are presently operational in the Ministry and Missions/Posts abroad.

17 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

A number of e-governance and automation projects have been also undertaken by the
MEA in consonance with aim and objectives of Digital India such as e-political clearance
system, Integrated Missions Accounting System (IMAS), portal for scholarship programme
for Diaspora children, Admission to Alumini (A2A) ICCR scholarships programme, Know
India Programme and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The Ministry set up the New Emerging and
Strategic Technologies (NEST) Division in January 2020 that engages in new technology
diplomacy and also deals with the foreign policy and international legal aspects of
such discussions in global forums. NEST Division is the coordinating point for positions
taken by India in negotiations regarding technology governance rules, standards, and
architecture in the multilateral or plurilateral context, including at the UN and relevant
international organizations. Further, in March 2021, India joined as a founding partner
of the International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence which has been established
under the auspices of UNESCO.
Tapping into the expertise available within the Ministry as well as that available externally,
through consultations with other relevant Departments/Ministries and think-tanks, the in-
house research and publication division produced a number of research papers and policy
briefs, covering foreign policy trends and international developments. The focus of these
papers ranges from immediate response options to emerging issues to medium and long-
term trends and developments in the world and India’s evolving role and interests over this
strategic horizon. Throughout the year, the Division also issues a range of publications, that
include comprehensive Daily Reports covering major news developments and interesting
foreign policy related snippets, Monthly Think-Tank Compendium on important policy
events organized by think tanks, Monthly Summary of the Cabinet and Annual Report of
the Ministry.
All these analyses collectively help shape the roadmap of India’s international engagements
in pursuit of India’s foreign policy objective of ensuring a peaceful, stable external
environment and creating the most propitious climate for India’s economic growth and
development. These papers when circulated within the Government provide clarity of
opinion and when shared with the wider strategic community increases the outreach of
the Indian narrative.

2.3 Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief

India has been the “first responder”when it comes to humanitarian assistance and disaster
relief, especially towards its neighborhood. Given the changing nature of transnational
emergences India has been instrumental in preparing itself to further consolidated its
role as the first responder in South Asia and the Indian Ocean. In this process India is not
only assisting its own people, but is also extending a helping hand to people from other
counties. Recently, the GoI was successful in rescuing 7 Indian sailors who were on the
ship named Rwabee and under the detention of the Houthis in Yemen since 02 January
2022. Apart from the 7 Indians, the rescued sailors included 3 sailors from the UK, and
one each from the Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Ethiopia.

Vaccine Maitri
The ‘reliance on Indian cultural traditions’, India, under the leadership of Modi, has
enhanced the ability ‘to develop new ideas on alternative global public goods’ and

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 18

‘contribute to the building of a shared vision of global order’. Such ability to convert
Indian soft power into universal remedy finds resonance in the outbreak of recent global
pandemic, COVID-19, wherein India considers its topmost priority to protect the world as
its own family.
India’s vaccine diplomacy reflects on how India has extended its help to protect humanity,
including securing her own citizens. India fulfilled its commitment towards the GAVI
alliance (an International Vaccine Alliance) by providing vaccines to other countries by
bringing together public and private sectors. This ensured the shared goal of creating
equal and affordable access to medicines and vaccines, particularly for people living in the
world’s poorest countries - a reflection of the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’.
India’s Vaccine Maitri Operation by catering to health security set an example for the world
to collectively address the issue as one family. As such, the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakam’ has come to receive worldwide recognition. This is reflected in the positive
response of international community towards India’s initiative. As India reels under
the second wave, many leaders, including Australian Prime Minister and US President,
applauded generosity displayed by India through its medical assistance. In the words of
American President Joe Biden, “Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our
hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time
of need”.
Following India’s footsteps, a number of countries have come forward to provide help to
India, including Australia, US, Germany, Saudi Arabia, France, UK, Kazakhstan, Singapore
and others. Since the last week of April when COVID situation in India assumed a high
proportion, India has received international assistance in the form of medical supplies
such as ventilators and oxygen concentrators and medicines.
Vaccine Diplomacy gave India the power to present its views on the international forums
such as the United Nations where Minister of External Affairs discussed global vaccine
solutions with the UN Secretary General including the need to strengthen vaccine supply
chains to increase their production and to ensure their fair distribution. In these times
of crisis, India has become a ray of hope for the nations bearing the brunt of the deadly
pandemic. Most recently, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for WTO Global
Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, Gujarat which will be the first and only global
outpost centre for traditional medicine across the world. This has provided recognition to
India for its leadership in the traditional medicine and as 107 WHO member countries will
have their country specific governmental offices; this centre is truly a global project that
will emerge as an international
hub of global wellness.
There is no doubt that the “The WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine
global pandemic has provided is a recognition of India’s contribution and potential in
valuable lessons to the entire this field.”
humanity. First, challenges “India takes this partnership as a huge responsibility
in contemporary times are for serving the entire humanity.”
becoming more complex and
cannot be addressed solely by -Narendra Modi, Prime Minister
any single country. It requires

19 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

collective efforts. Second, that the whole world that so far has been looked as composed
of different parts [countries] belongs to the same family of humanity. As such any act of
compassion could go a long way to save the family. Undoubtedly, India has shown the
world the path of compassion and to openly embrace the world as a family, which is the
core philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. Now, the world has come to realize that
the global pandemic warrants collective and coordinated efforts. This can be achieved
when everyone embraces the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ i.e world is a
family.

Vande Bharat
During the global Covid-19 pandemic, the Government of India launched the ‘Vande
Bharat’ Mission to repatriate Indian nationals and to facilitate the travel of passengers
between India and other parts of the world. As on 06th March 2022, 2.97 crore passengers
(in-bound and out-bound) have been facilitated in the flights operated under the Vande
Bharat Mission and Air Bubble Arrangements. The Government through India Missions
and Posts abroad assisted distressed and stranded Indian nationals by using the Indian
Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). Total expenditure incurred for assisting more than
1,73,618 Indian nationals abroad, including for repatriation and evacuation, has been Rs.
45.78 crores. The mission assisted a total of 102 countries.

Operation Samudra Setu

The government launched a part of Vande Bharat Mission, under the name Operation
“Samudra Setu” – meaning “Sea Bridge”, as a part of national effort to repatriate Indian
citizens from overseas during COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in 2020. The operation was
progressed in close coordination with Ministries of Defense, External Affairs, Home Affairs,
Health and various other agencies of the Government of India and State governments.
The greatest challenge for the Indian Navy was to avoid any incident of outbreak of
infection onboard the ships during the evacuation operation. Rigorous measures were
planned and medical/ safety protocols unique to the operating environment of ships
were implemented. These were strictly followed onboard the ships undertaking the
operation resulting in the safe return of 3,992 of our citizens to their homeland. Indian
Naval ships Jalashwa, Airavat, Shardul and Magar steamed more than 23,000 kilometres
during Operation Samudra Setu and undertook the evacuation operation in a smooth and
coordinated manner. Details of the evacuation are as follows: -

Ship Date Embarked Port of Number of Data Disembarked Port of

Embarkation Citizens Disembarkation
Jalashwa 5/8/2022 0:00 Male 698 5/10/2022 0:00 Kochi
Magar 5/10/2022 0:00 Male 202 5/12/2022 0:00 Kochi
Jalashwa 5/15/2022 0:00 Male 588 5/17/2022 0:00 Kochi
Jalashwa 6/1/2022 0:00 Colombo 686 6/2/2022 0:00 Tuticorin
Jalashwa 6/5/2022 0:00 Male 700 6/7/2022 0:00 Tuticorin
Shardul 6/8/2022 0:00 Bandar Abbas 233 6/11/2022 0:00 Portbandar
Airavat 6/20/2022 0:00 Male 198 6/23/2022 0:00 Tuticorin
Jalashwa 6/25/2022 0:00 Bandar Abbas 687 7/1/2022 0:00 Tuticorin

Figure 4 Details of evacuation under Operation Samudra Setu

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 20

Operation Ganga
Government of India launched a multi prong evacuation plan titled Operation Ganga to
evacuate our citizens stranded in Ukraine. This evacuation process was at government cost
given the emergency situation prevailing. A number of advisories prior to the development
of the situation was also issued by the Indian Embassy in Kiev as well as the ministry
in Delhi, at that time, requested Indian citizens to leave Ukraine. A dedicated Twitter
Account Operation Ganga Helpline was set up to assist Operation Ganga: @opganga on
an immediate basis. Further, 24x7 Control Centres were set up to assist in the evacuation
of Indian nationals through the border crossing points with Poland, Romania, Hungary
and Slovak Republic.
The Ministry of External Affairs established a 24x7 control centers under Prime Minister
Modi’s guidance to offer the impetus for the essential flow of information out of Ukraine.
The government’s regular contacts with heads of state at the highest levels were an
important component of this endeavor. The government had coordinated with the Indian
carriers as well as with six private airlines for the operation of evacuation flights. By the
15th of March 2022, India had successfully evacuated over 23000 residents from Ukraine,
as well as 147 foreign nationals from 18 different countries, as part of the mission. The
Prime Minister’s regular meetings to oversee the mission emphasized India’s seriousness.
Jyotiraditya Scindia, Hardeep Singh Puri, Kiren Rijiju, and V.K. Singh were among the four
ministers sent to Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and Poland to oversee the evacuation of
Indians.

Operation Devi Shakti

Operation Devi Shakti was an operation of the Indian Armed Forces to evacuate
Indian citizens and foreign nationals from Afghanistan after take over by the Taliban in
Afghanistan. Under this operation, a total of 669 people were evacuated. It comprises
of 448 Indians and 206 Afghans, which includes members of the Afghan Hindu/Sikh
minority community. On the returning flight, the government of India dispatched
medical supplies as a part of humanitarian assistance given the challenging situation in
Afghanistan. Further, in response to appeals made by the United Nations for humanitarian
assistance to Afghanistan, India fulfilled its commitment to supply 50,000 MT of wheat.
India remains committed to its special relationship with the people of Afghanistan. In this
endeavor, India has already supplied 500,000 doses of COVAXIN, 13 tons of essential
lifesaving medicines and 500 units of winter clothing.

2.4 Development Diplomacy

International Solar Alliance
The NDA government under the able-leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has
evolved diplomacy pertaining to developmental needs, ‘Development Diplomacy’. The
geopolitical significance was achieved by paving the way for equitable and a just energy
order in the international arena with the establishment of International Solar Alliance
(ISA) headquarters at Gurugram, India. Further in September 2019, Prime Minister Modi
launched the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) with its Secretariat in
Delhi, second such international initiative after the launch of the ISA.

21 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

The Third Assembly of the ISA was held in October 2020 which was attended by 4 ISA
Members ministers. 53 Member countries and 5 Signatory and Prospective Member
countries participated to the Assembly. In the wake of the global pandemic, ISA
responded by setting up ISA CARES, an initiative dedicated to deployment of solar energy
in healthcare sector in LDC/SIDS ISA Member countries. The initiative aims to solarize one
primary health sector in each district of the target Member countries.
The universal outreach of the ISA is expanding every year and so is its aim to undertake
joint efforts required to reduce the cost of finance and the cost of technology, mobilize
investments needed for massive deployment of solar energy, and pave the way for future
technologies adapted to the needs. The membership of the ISA has continued to grow
since the Second Assembly in 2019 and now the ISA is proudly supported by 68 member
countries, and a further 20 countries are in the process of becoming members. The
International Solar Alliance has been granted observer status by the UN General Assembly.

Atma Nirbhar Bharat

In his address to the nation on May 12, 2020, the Prime Minister expressed India’s resolve
to turn the COVID-19 pandemic crisis into an opportunity to strive for self-reliance. For
this, the Government introduced the Self-reliant India Programme (Atmanirbhar Bharat
Abhiyan) built around five pillars of Economy, Infrastructure, Systems, Vibrant Demography,
and Demand.
An extensive set of reform and relief measures has been introduced as part of the
programme that is helping boost equitable growth in post-pandemic India. Improved
liberalization, policy amendments, relaxed regulations, financial support, infrastructure
investment, skill development, etc, are attracting larger counts of foreign investors to
India to build a future-ready global economy. This projects India’s ability to become a force
multiplier and bring about “reformed multilateralism” to usher in “a new type of human-
centric globalization”.
“We are moving forward with the vision of “Self-reliant India” in the changed circumstances
of the post Pandemic era. A Self-reliant India will also be a Force Multiplier for the Global
Economy.” – Prime Minister’s Address at the 75thUnited Nations General Assembly
As India moves forward with the vision of “Self- Reliance”, it is not only strengthening
domestic resilience and reducing external dependence in various sectors, but also becoming
a responsible stakeholder in catering to the global community.
India has highlighted the importance of international cooperation as a global response
to the COVID-19 pandemic by adopting the approach of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. In
partnership with India’s pharma industry, the government has sent essential medicines to
more than 150 countries. India has committed to use her vaccine production and delivery
capacity to help humanity in fighting the pandemic, as well as to help countries with
enhancing their cold chain and storage capacities for the delivery of the vaccines.”
As the 3rd largest pharmaceutical industry in the world by volume, India has a huge
responsibility towards the world community given the pandemic situation. India exported
pharmaceuticals worth Rs. 1,80,551 crore in the financial year 2020-21. India exported
Bulk Drugs/ Drug Intermediates worth Rs.32,857 crore in financial year 2020-21. In order
to make the country Atmanirbhar in pharmaceuticals, the government launched a slew

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 22

of measures, one of them being the launch of Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
for promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical Key Starting Materials (KSMs)/ Drug
Intermediates (DIs) and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in India.
As a result of the investor-friendly policy put in place by the government to promote
investment, the Foreign Direct Investment inflows (FDI) has shown a continuous increase
from US$ 45.15 billion in 2014-15 to US$ 81.97 billion in 2020-21. During the last three
financial years, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows worth US$ 218.36 billion have

Sr. No. Financial Year Amount of FDI inflows

(In US$ billions)
1 2018-2019 62.00
2 2019-2020 74.39
3 2020-2021 81.97

BILATERAL TRADE
Hon’ble CIM, as special envoy of Hon’ble Prime Minister, visited Dubai from 27th-29th March
2022 to attend the INVESTOPIA Summit held on 28th March 2022, the World Government Sum-
mit held on 29th March 2022, and India’s National Honour Day Celebrations at Dubai Expo 2020
on 29th March 2022. Hon’ble CIM, inter alia, attended various events to promote the India-UAE
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Business community of both sides inter-
acted in a very healthy and positive environment.
A delegation led by Shri B.V.R Subrahmanyam, Commerce Secretary, Department of Commerce
was deputed to Canberra, Australia from 28th February – 2nd March 2022 to speed up the on-
going India-Australia FTA negotiations. Virtual meetings were held at officers’ level and Chief
Negotiator level on regular basis to finalize the text, legal scrubbing of text and market access
issues. On 26th March, 2022 the matter was submitted before Cabinet and Cabinet has accorded
its approval for signing India-Australia Free Trade Agreement.
India and UK formally launched FTA negotiations on 13th January 2022. During March 2022,
during second round of negotiations, discussions took place on SPS, TBT and GRP chapter under
India-UK FTA. 40% of the SPS chapter was agreed and cleaned.
The 5th Ministerial Dialogue on Trade & Investment (MDTI) was held in New Delhi on 11th March,
2022 in which the Ministers agreed to formally re-launch the negotiations for India-Canada Com-
prehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and also consider an Interim Agreement or
Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA) that could bring early commercial gains to both the coun-
tries. It was also agreed that the Interim Agreement would inter alia, include high level commit-
ments in services and may also cover any other areas mutually agreed upon.
A Commerce Secretary level bilateral meeting was held between India and Bangladesh on trade
and transit issues in New Delhi on 4th March 2022. In the meeting, issues related to 24*7 oper-
ationalization of Petrapole-Benapole Integrated Check Post (ICP), finalization of Joint Study on
CEPA, Railway infrastructure at borders of the two countries, early resumption of Border Haats,
etc. were discussed. • As part of follow-up actions on India-Mauritius CECPA, a draft Note for
the Cabinet for inclusion of Chapter on General Economic Cooperation (GEC) and Automatic
Trigger Safeguard Mechanism (ATSM), approved by Hon’ble CIM, has been circulated to Minis-
tries/ Departments seeking their comments. Based on the comments received, the proposal will
be processed further, for seeking approval of the Cabinet for finalization of these chapters.

23 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

2.5 Indianization of Soft Power Diplomacy
The emphasis on harnessing ancient Indian civilization, culture and heritage, particularly
those unexplored, as integral part of India’s soft power diplomacy is a new phenomenon.
It can be rightly said that the inherent attribute to establish a connection with the world
is embedded in the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world as one family) and
‘Universal Brotherhood’ which acts as an extension of India’s soft power diplomacy as
well as Indian foreign policy. The Modi government has been particularly focused on
advancing India’s soft power by harnessing ancient Indian traditions and values. Naturally,
‘Sanskriti evam Sabhyata’ (Cultural and civilizational links) forms a crucial pillar of India’s
Foreign Policy.

World Celebrates International Yoga Day

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government expanded its Soft
Power engagements by focusing on Ayurveda, Yoga, Buddhism, besides reaching pro-
actively to the Indian Diaspora. Yoga, an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice,
originated in India thousands of years ago, is derived from Sanskrit, which means to join
or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and mind.
Prime Minister’s appeal for
World Yoga Day at the 69th
session of the United Nation “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient
General Assembly resulted in tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body,
the international recognition thought and action ... a holistic approach [that] is
to Yoga and the declaration valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga
of June 21 as ‘International is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover
Yoga Day’. With the world the sense of oneness with yourself, the world, and
celebrating 21st June as nature,”
International Yoga Day, evolving -Prime Minister Narendra Modi
sound understanding about
Yoga as a body of knowledge
with multiple dimensions and discussing Yoga academically, became important world over
and since 2015.The theme of the Yoga Day has not only focused on health advantages
but also on Peace, Youth, Harmony, Climate Action and recently on “Wellness”.
The importance of Yoga in connecting the whole world is evident from the participation of
nearly 36,000 people, including PM Modi and dignitaries from 84 nations, who performed
21 asanas for 35 minutes at Delhi’s Rajpath at the first-ever International Yoga Day. The
International Day of Yoga created two records, a Guinness World Record for the largest
yoga class at a single venue and the other for the highest number of nationalities to have
participated.
The overwhelming response received every year on the International Day of Yoga reflects
that the practice of yoga as part of Indian cultural diplomacy has gained both popularity
and acceptance among a large section of people across countries. The effective use of
Yoga as a diplomatic tool in India’s soft power projection is revitalizing India’s global image
in the minds of people abroad.
Despite the pandemic prolonging for almost a year now the enthusiasm for Yoga among

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 24

crores of people has not diminished a bit. The theme of Yoga Day 2021-“Yoga for Wellness”,
emphasized on the healing qualities of Yoga that has been seconded by experts of the
world while also stressing on the importance of breathing exercises like ‘Pranayama’ and
‘Anulom-Vilom’ for strengthening our respiratory system. Another achievement in this
regard is the launch of ‘WHO M-Yoga’ App on the occasion of 7th International Day of
Yoga, a joint undertaking by the Ministry of AYUSH and the World Health Organization
(WHO) under the concept of the ‘Be Healthy, Be Mobile’ (BHBM).
The world is getting M-Yoga
app which will provide many
“From the Upanishads, comes the idea of yoga
videos of yoga training and
to transform human consciousness through control
practice based on common
of body and senses through constant practice.
yoga protocol in many
The body is the vehicle for the realisation of the
languages. This is indeed a
Supreme Being,”
great example of fusion of
modern technology and ancient -Prime Minister Narendra Modi
science. Further, in order to
mark the 7th International
Yoga Day celebrations in India and the world, ICCR organized UBUNTU: International Yoga
Conference (virtual) on the theme “Yoga for Universal Well-being: Finding Commonalities
between Indian and African Traditions” in June, 2021. It was attended by a number of
African Healers from Traditional Healers’ Organization in South Africa and students of IKS-
Africa and Yoga throughout the world.
The mantra of ‘Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam’ which India has followed since ages is now
finding global acceptance through Yoga as every country, society and individual is moving
towards adopting a healthier lifestyle with Yoga as an integral part of Yoga seekers world
over.

Promotion of India’s Traditions Abroad

India is a country that has dozens of languages and hundreds of dialects, different
lifestyles and cuisine. As stated by Mark Twain, “India is the cradle of the human race,
the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of tradition”.
To spread awareness and promote India’s multi-cultural heritage abroad, the ministry
undertook a number of initiatives during the past 3 years. The ministry utilized an
integrated approach by collaborating with various departments and ministries and also
disseminated the information through Indian Mission abroad by simultaneously involving
Indian communities residing in the respective countries.
In order to present the true picture of India in the eyes of the world, since July 2020, Indian
Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), the cultural arm of MEA, has embarked upon a new
project of reviewing the references to India in the text books of various countries with the
help of Indian Missions abroad. So far, review of over 60 countries is almost complete.
Analysis of the contents of textbooks is very educative and revealing too, providing inputs
for an actionable agenda for perception correction about India. Indian culinary traditions
have also come to be recognized across the globe. For the promotion of Indian cuisines,
the ICCR announced the “Annapurna Award” for Indian restaurants abroad on ‘World
Culture Day’ (21 May 2021). This award will be presented to recognize Indian chefs and

25 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

restaurateurs’ contributions to help create a sustainable ecosystem for the promotion
of Indian cuisine. Again, under the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay Memorial 4th Oration, Dr.
Colleen Taylor Sen (USA), shared her views on ‘Insights into India’s Culinary Traditions’.
Further, the ministry continued the promotion of Indian artists and artefacts domestically
as well as abroad even during the challenging times of Covid pandemic. ICCR has
launched a unique initiative “Kala Vishwa” Programme in 2021 with the objective to
provide opportunities and financial support to the traditional folk artists from India to
showcase their talents, especially providing platforms to artists from rural/ remote areas.
A number of programmes under this initiative have been organised by ICCR’s Regional
Centres across the country. For the first time, on Rakhi Purnima, Rakhis made of Bamboo
and prepared by tribal artisans from Melghat, were distributed to foreign associates of
ICCR at various centers abroad. Again, for the first time, ICCR organized an International
Webinar on the theme ‘Weaving Relations: Textile Tradition’ involving traditional weavers
and textile artistes from 12 countries, to mark the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma
Gandhi.
The best example of India being a vibrant democracy was demonstrated as the delegation
of young leaders from eight countries (Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, Jamaica,
Poland, Sweden & Tanzania) were greeted by five students from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka,
Tajikistan & Tanzania with placard in eight different languages (including Hindi & Gujarati)
as they arrived in Ahmedabad for the ‘GenNext Democracy Network Programme’. This
delegation was the first batch of young political leaders to visit India and experience its
vibrant democracy and carry forward the message as stated by our Hon’ble PM at the
Summit for Democracy, “That democracy can deliver, that democracy has delivered, and
that democracy will continue to deliver.”
Under this programme, India will be hosting young, emerging, social and political
leaders of 75 democracies across the globe who will visit India and get to know about
the comprehensive overview of India’s democratic system, its cultural heritage and
development initiatives. The first batch comprising of 19 delegates from eight countries,
visited India from 25 November to 2 December 2021.These young leaders represent the
future of democratic government across the globe and a futuristic approach to evolution
of democracy requires one to recognize the origins of democracy in ancient India. Further,
for democratic renewal and to tackle the greatest threats faced by democracies through
collective action, connecting with the future leader becomes an imperative.
To promote Indian culture across the world through its Indian missions/ Posts/ Indian Culture
Centres Abroad, ICCR has organized various competitions. Some of the competitions are
as follows:
Art competition-“United Against Corona - Express Through Art”; Online Poster and
Painting Competition; Essay competitions on topics like “Studying in India”: My Personality
Growth, My Experience and Cultural Imprint, Retrospect and Prospects as well as Video
Blogging contest on the theme “Weaving Relations : Textile Traditions”.
The most recent competition has been “Pratibha Sangam Competition”, conceptualized
in the year 2022 and is the first ever global competition under its aegis for performers
from around the world in the categories of classical Indian Music and Dances.

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 26

Cross-Cultural Civilization and Dialogue
The government’s initiatives for the revival of the rich legacy of historical and civilizational
engagement with the nature of the early contacts between Asian countries and how these
variously impacted the socio-cultural-religious fabric of these societies is well known. This
cross-cultural civilizational revival is in line with the objective to foster and strengthen
cultural relations and mutual understanding between India and other countries. And
one of the principles guiding India’s Foreign Policy is ‘sanskriti evam sabhyata’ (cultural
and civilizational links), which expresses the government’s desire to leverage India’s rich
historical cultural links with other countries as a part of its non-coercive soft power strategy.
Ramayana- The Indian epic, Ramayana, ties India to Asia and ASEAN in an unbreakable
bond. This was evident when Jakarta released a special commemorative stamp premised
on the Ramayana to mark 70 years of diplomatic ties between India and Indonesia.
“The stamp, designed by renowned Indonesian sculptor Padmashri Bapak Nyoman Nuarta,
featured a scene from Ramayana in which Jatayu valiantly fought to save Sita. A specially signed
version of the stamp will be on display at the Philately Museum in Jakarta.”- statement by the
Embassy of India
Ramayana and Buddhism have been the main catalysts in forging deeper and meaningful
relations for enhancing cultural and soft power diplomacy with ASEAN member countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in one of his addresses underscored how the Ramayana
connects India and ASEAN region.
“The Ramayana continues to be a valuable shared legacy in the ASEAN region and the Indian
subcontinent,”- Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Even India and Republic of Korea have deep historical connection as the legendary Princess
Suriratna of Ayodhya traveled to Korea in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro. In order to
revive the historical connect and to propagate Indian culture across the globe, ICCR started
celebrating International Ramayana Festival since 2015. Recognizing the importance of
connecting with the world through shared cultural heritage, President of Indian Council
for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Dr. Vinay Sahasrabudde underlined that ‘Ramayana is a
global cultural treasure’ and ‘the festival is part of ICCR’s initiatives to foster global cultural
pluralism by facilitating cultural exchanges between international artists participating in
the festival and is a perfect gateway for Indian culture to experience it live’.
During the festival of Diwali in 2021, Ambassadors of Vietnam, Kenya, Trinidad and Tobago
performed the symbolic Rajtilak ceremony of the actors portraying the roles of Lord Rama,
Lakshmana and Sita at Ayodhya. Such is the cultural linkages that an Indonesian artist,
Dr. I Wayana Dibia, credited with creating “more than 150 new works on dance and
dance dramas, mostly exploring Ramayana and Mahabharata” was conferred the Padma
Awards of 2021.
Buddhism-The Indian government has been constantly making efforts at incorporating
Buddhist heritage in order to form a basis for further diplomatic, economic, cultural, and
strategic associations within its foreign policy. The pan-Asian presence of the religion and
its importance for national identities in the region, coupled with its image as a peaceful
religion makes it ideal for soft power diplomacy, with its focus on non-coercive power.
In order to revive and enrich the legacy, in 2019, the Indian Government and Cambodia

27 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

signed a MoU on establishment of ICCR’s Chair in Buddhist and Sanskrit Studies at PSRB
University, and Phnom Penh extended for another three years period till 2021-22. The
same year, President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President Shri Venkaiah Naidu visited
Japan and Vietnam respectively where they visited scared Buddhist sites and highlighted
the historical and cultural linkages based on Buddhism. Further, President, ICCR visited
Mongolia in September 2019 to participate in “SAMVAD III: Global Hindi-Buddhist
Initiative on Conflict Avoidance and Environment Consciousness” stressing upon Buddha’s
message of compassion and its centrality to the success of Development Democracy.
Apart from the above, the ministry expanded its developmental programmes in various
countries including the newly established dedicated Division for heritage conservation,
which (DPA-IV Division) continued the implementation of international heritage
conservation projects in countries like Cambodia and Vietnam. New projects aimed at the
excavation, restoration and conservation of Buddhist sites located in Central Asia have
also been included under the programme. As a step ahead, ICCR proposed to organize
an International Conference on Buddhist Studies and also honor an international scholar
every year from 2021-22.
Nalanda University- Perceived as a symbol of Asian renaissance and resurgence, the
prime objective of Nalanda today is to serve as a ‘bridge and foundation’ in linking India
with the world through knowledge, dialogue and discussions concentrating on Cultural
connect. The University is envisaged as an icon of this new Asian renaissance: a creative
space that will be a center of inter-civilizational dialogue for future generations.
Nalanda University is striving forward to attract students from all over the world. The sacred
landscape has been revived into a harmonious educational center that is regenerating the
Indian knowledge fused with emerging new knowledge systems. The University has been
focused of following prime areas in teaching and research:
1. Buddhist studies, philosophy and comparative religion
2. Sanskrit, English, Pali, Tibetan, Korean and yoga
3. World literature
4. Environment Studies
5. Critical Thinking
6. Global and Indian History,
7. Art, Architecture, Archaeology,
8. International Relations,
9. Asian interconnections- maritime and overland routes
Recently, the University has launched a new and unique programme which is Master’s in
Hindu Studies (Sanatana). It will be focused on the teaching of Vedas (Rigveda, Yajurveda,
Samaveda and Atharvaveda), Upanishads, Hindu Philosophy, Ramayana, Mahabharat,
Bhagavad Gita, Arthashastra etc.
The University regularly organizes talks, discussions, conferences and seminars. An
important Conference titled “Dharma-Dhamma Traditions in building the Post-Covid
World Order” was organized at the University in the year 2021 in collaboration with India

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 28

Foundation, New Delhi. The main focus of the Conference was to examine the ways and
means by which Dharma-Dhamma traditions can play that vital role at this critical turning
point in human existence. It was aimed to bring together religious, political and thought
leaders to discuss over building a philosophical framework for the emerging new world
order.
Further, as announced by the Prime Minister during the 4th BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu,
a Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies was established at the University and 30 Scholarships
for students from the Region has been initiated. Also, Nalanda University is nominated
to anchor the India-ASEAN Network of Universities, thus taking a lead in establishing the
road map for linkages, twinning programmes, exchanges, joint-research, credit transfer
and other collaborative initiatives.
This great cradle of learning envisions to not only provide a transformational academic
experience to the students across the globe, but also appeals to the people to learn from
our traditional, nature-friendly practices emphasizing that ‘we must go back to our roots’.
Sanskrit- During ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio programme broadcasted on 29 August 2021, Prime
Minister mentioned Dr. Chirapat Prapandavidya and Dr. Kusuma Ruksamani, Sanskrit
scholars from Thailand for their contribution in promoting Sanskrit language in Thailand.
Our nation takes immense pride in this, as it is said that Southeast Asian languages have
strong roots in Sanskrit and in Europe and the United States there has been a long and
valuable tradition of scholarship in Sanskrit.
As Sanskrit literature embodies a comprehensive mapping of the human experience
in its spiritual, emotional, mental and physical dimensions, the ministry through ICCR
promotes as well as endeavors to preserve this valuable part of the cultural heritage of
mankind. As a part of its mandate to promote the vibrant cultural heritage of India, ICCR
promotes Sanskrit through providing books and material to Sanskrit institutions all over
the world. ICCR deputes teachers and professors to various universities and institutes to
teach Sanskrit.
ICCR instituted ‘ICCR World Sanskrit Award’ in the year 2015 to recognize eminent Sanskrit
scholars who have made outstanding contribution to the study/ teaching/ research in
Sanskrit language and literature. It is an annual award. For the year 2019, Prof. Lim Geun
Dong, South Korea was awarded. Also, they have shortlisted the distinguished Sanskrit
Scholars for the year 2021, 2022 which are yet to be conferred. Further, the theme of
the 2nd Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay Memorial Oration was “Sanskrit – An Instrument for
Promotion of India’s Soft Power”.
ICCR also launched a campaign to promote Sanskrit language among students, religious
scholars, Indologists and historians across the world. In keeping pace with changing
technology in both access as well as teaching methods, ICCR launched ‘LITTLE GURU’,
a specialized app for learning Sanskrit. This unique App combines education with
entertainment thereby helping keep attention of the learner as well as encourage him/her
to advance further. As a part of ministry’s cultural cooperation, the app was launched in
various countries such as Unites Kingdom.

Connecting with Diaspora

Along with cultural outreach, the humane and compassionate face of Indian diplomacy

29 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

continued to shine in myriad ways under the Modi government. During Modi1.0, the previous
tenure of the NDA, proactive efforts were made to reach out to Indians stranded in situations
of crisis and conflict across different regions. For instance, during Yemen crisis (2015), under
Operation Rahat, over 4,748 Indians and 1,962 nationals from 48 countries were rescued.
The Modi government carried out the largest ever disaster relief assistance through Operation
Maitri in the aftermath of Nepal earthquake in 2015.It is in this spirit that the government
also reached out to the 30 million Indian diaspora across the world, rekindling their sense of
belonging to India and enlisted their support in the mission of national resurgence.
On 22nd September 2019, Prime Minister Modi addressed a massive gathering of nearly
50,000 Indian-Americans at the mega “Howdy, Modi” event in Houston, which was also
attended by the US President. The cheering Indian diaspora at the event felt connected with
the motherland as the Prime Minister replied to the “Howdy, Modi” as “All is Well in India”
in Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, Bengal, Telegu, among others.
In his recent visit to Denmark, PM Modi interacted with over 1000 members of the Indian
community comprising students, researchers, professionals and business persons. Highlighting
their role in dissemination of Indian culture and heritage, PM Modi described the Indian
Diaspora as India’s ambassadors in their respective adopted homelands. Invoking the slogan
of ‘Chalo India’ initiative, PM Modi appealed to the Indian diaspora to encourage at least
five of their non-Indian friends to visit and explore India to enable India to become a single
destination for the world.
Subsequently, he underscored the historical-cultural importance of different Indian languages
which represent the liberal and democratic tradition of our nation. Marking an unprecedented
engagement with the Indian diaspora, Indian leaders connected to the Indian community
in different cities- Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, London, Dubai, Berlin, Sydney, Singapore-
cutting across continents.
In order to establish a continuum of connect with the Indian Diaspora across the world,
the ministry launched global Pravasi Rishta portal and mobile app with the aim to create a
three-way communication between the ministry, Indian missions and the diaspora. This is
an innovative and effective way of communicating with the overseas Indian community not
only during normal circumstances but also during emergencies. Also, to facilitate NRIs, OCIs
and PIOs community by connecting them to various new and existing government schemes
benefiting them in various areas of interest. Further, it also enables the diaspora to reach the
consular officers and services in time of emergence by enabling communication on a real-
time basis with the ability to issue emergency alerts and advisories.
Also, the government recognized that there are number of platforms available around
the world to discuss economic and strategic issues, but hardly any platform for discussing
culture. Thus, with an aim to disseminate traditional Indian knowledge across the world
and to make present-day Indian citizens aware of their roots and culture, the government
launched an ambitious initiative titled Universalization of Traditional Indian Knowledge
System (UTIKS).

2.6 Putting India First

India has conquered its insecurities about what others may comprehend while engaging
with the world’s main economic powers or increasing engagement with neighbours and

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 30

other countries. In his first term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated unequivocally that
we no longer live in a bipolar world and that we must collaborate with all nations. India’s
foreign policy is guided by the notion of ‘India First’, as Prime Minister Modi puts it. Hence,
Narendra Modi 2.0 is reinforcing the policy’s fundamentals in the same way.
Shri Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to attend the World Economic
Forum in Davos, 2018, in 21 years, leading a large government and corporate delegation with
the goal of showcasing India as a rapidly expanding economic power and a potential engine
of global prosperity, putting India first in his agenda of inclusive and global development. It
shall be noted at the same time that India has developed a new position in the international
arena under the leadership of Shri Narendra Modi. Economic sanctions of various kinds have
failed to dissuade India’s futuristic ambitions, as evidenced by the fact that India continues
to purchase oil from Iran to maintain its energy security despite US sanctions in 2018. In
another instance, despite predictions of imminent US penalties, India sticks to its guns on
the $5.4 billion agreement with Russia for S-400 Air Defense systems, thereby not moving
an inch back from putting India’s interest as the top most priority.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi covered local and international concerns during his
speech to the United Nations’ 75th General Assembly, from asking probing questions
about reforms in UN to praising India’s COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing. PM Modi made
a strong argument for changes at the UN in
a 22-minute speech delivered in Hindi at the
75th session of the UN General Assembly’s “If America is the land of the
general discussion. He also asked for a higher free, India thinks of the world as
part of India’s representation in decision- one family, and while America takes
making at the UN, iterating the major role that pride in its Statue of Liberty, India
India plays globally pertaining to varied range takes pride in its Statue of Unity.”
of issues. -Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Narendra Modi, speaking in Hindi in front of
the global community, iterated that the wide
agreement established in the UN Security Council during India’s presidency in August 2021,
showed the world the way ahead for maritime security, demonstrating the status that India
has attained during the BJP-led Union Government’s administration. PM Modi reiterated
India’s strong global position during the 76th UNGA session, saying that “When India
grows, the world grows. When India reforms, the world transforms”. Terming India as the
mother of all democracies, Shri Narendra Modi ensured India’s pivotal role in maintaining a
holistic world order.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirmed India’s civilizational commitment to democracy,
freedom of thought, and liberty, which makes it a natural ally of the G-7 group of nations,
and told the global community that India was the only G-20 country on track to meet its
commitments under the Paris climate change agreement, while speaking at the G-7 Summit
in 2021.
Even during the most trying moments of a pandemic, India, ensured that the unknown
adversary was handled with an iron fist. Following the development of national capacities, the
government, responded to the requirements of the global community through technical and
medical initiatives. PM Modi stated at the World Economic Forum’s Davos Agenda conference

31 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

in 2022 that India
is commemorating “Today every sixth person of the world is Indian. When
its 75th year of Indians progress, then it also accelerates the development of
the world. When India grows, the world grows; when India
independence as well
reforms, the world transforms. Science and technology-based
as the administration innovations in India can help the world to a great extent.
of 156 crore The scale and cost of the country’s technology solutions is
vaccination doses, unmatched”
and that India has -Prime Minister Narendra Modi
thus given the world at 76th UNGA session
a bouquet of hope.
Putting India first among nations seeking investments from the international community,
PM Modi stated that now is the perfect moment to invest in India because Indians’
entrepreneurial spirit, as well as their capacity to absorb new technologies, can provide
fresh vitality to each of our global partners. He emphasised that India has not only saved
countless lives in their own nation, but is also saving crores of lives throughout the world
by providing crucial medicines and vaccines to many countries, following the vision of ‘One
Earth, One Health’.
India, unfazed and unbowed in the face of American pressure, pushed back on several
contentious issues, prioritising the country’s interests and refusing to back down from the
threat of sanctions and its crusade for human rights - all while maintaining that the two
countries’ ties are strong enough to accommodate differences. External Affairs Minister
(EAM) Dr. S Jaishankar, in a blunt rebuttal to the US threatening New Delhi with sanctions
over its purchase of the Russian S-400 missile defence system, said CAATSA, the US domestic
law that prohibits sanctions for such transactions with American adversaries, was for the US
to sort out, thus putting India’s stand first against any foreign interference.
During a joint press conference following the 2+2 dialogue, Blinken stated that the US is
monitoring recent “concerning developments” in India, pointing to a rise in ‘human rights
abuses’ and alleging that such incidents are perpetrated by the government, police, and
prison officials. In response to the statement, EAM, Dr. S. Jaishankar remarked during a
press conference that India also considers other countries’ human rights situations, including
the United States’. He went on to say that India raises such issues impacting the Indian
community on a regular basis, demonstrating India’s global clout.

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 32

ANALYSIS
The transformational change in the Indian Foreign Policy has been tremendous with
more focus on the concerns and interest of the ordinary citizens. Our foreign policy has
‘developing India through diplomacy’ at its core and has prioritized attracting technology
and capital, absorbed best practices and promoted exports. As the nodal agency, MEA has
been persistently striving to reach PM Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’,
fostering cordial relations with different countries as well as upholding India’s territorial
integrity and promoting and facilitating economic transformation in a pro-active manner.
Under the able leadership of PM Narendra Modi, various programmes and policies
implemented by MEA in collaboration with other Ministries/Departments, including
Neighbourhood First Policy, digital diplomacy, vaccine diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, and
development diplomacy, among others, are a demonstration of far-reaching impact of
Indian Foreign Policy across countries.
Transformation change has been observed in the execution of the country’s foreign policy
in a short span. This transformation highlights the major difference between the two
governments, UPA and NDA, regarding the execution of the foreign policy decisions,
wherein the NDA- under Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee and now under Prime Minister Narendra
Modi- has shown greater pragmatism and assertiveness than its predecessors. During
the tenure of the predecessors, one could observe a Delhi-centric traditional view with
respect to the foreign policy, whereas with the advent of the Modi government, states
were seen as equal partners in taking forward a progressive foreign policy. Today, foreign
partnerships are being utilized to build our cities, increase agriculture output, create
accessible infrastructure, upgrade industry and clean up the environment.
The series of events that have taken place throughout these 3 years and the pro-active
decision making on the part of the government has made it evident that if a nation remains
firm on upholding its National Interest, with ‘Jaag Kalyan’ progress for the whole world
as an underlining principle, then immediate external threats tend to reduce substantially.
India has not only led the way to creating a deterrence by taking a strong stand on
‘Counter Terrorism’, but also have emphasized on maintaining a sustainable democratic
setup under the aegis of sharing of resources for the benefit of humanity via initiatives
such as ‘One Sun One World One Grid’.
Furthermore, India, while positioning itself as a leading global player under the leadership
of Shri Narendra Modi, has imbued the Indian foreign policy with a certain amount of
risk-taking, departing from the risk aversion of the past dispensation. Also, the diplomatic
resolve to not compromising the territorial integrity and protecting the sovereignty of the
nation has been pro-actively pursued by the Modi led-government on the international
borders as well as at international forums. India chose to be a problem-solver when the
big issues of our times – pandemic, terrorism and climate change- impacted our very
existence. India is rightly regarded as the ‘first responder’ in difficult situations, especially
by the neighboring countries. Given the changing nature of transnational emergencies,
India has further consolidated this position. Vaccine diplomacy, development assistance
and launch of multi prong evacuation plan such as Operation Ganga and Operation Devi

33 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

Shakti have been instrumental in this regard.
This diplomatic outreach has also aided in changing the way other nations think of India,
our culture and our way of life. In order to present the true picture of India in the eyes
of the world, ICCR, the cultural arm of MEA, embarked upon a project of reviewing the
references to India in the text books of various countries with the help of Indian Missions
abroad. Our Prime Minister himself has been a driving force in this regard. Be it politicians
or the general public abroad, Modi Ji’s ‘people connect’ approach and the ability to lead
in formal and informal situations has been instrument in leaving a tremendous impact.
The warm welcome received by our prime minister during his recent visit to the Nordic
nations and the overwhelming response of the Indian diaspora and the Japanese people
during the QUAD Tokyo summit exhibits percolation of our culture, traditions and ideas in
the global matrix. With his diplomatic ability, he is not only establishing a direct dialogue
with the leadership, businessmen, academia-cultural class and common people around
the world, but also giving a strong base to ‘Soft Power Diplomacy’ by infusing a new
energy among the diaspora spread all over the globe. The traditional philosophies, ideas
articulated and the debates inaugurated has left a global footprint that leverages India’s
greater capability and relevance, as well as its unique diaspora.

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 34

References
I. https://www.mea.gov.in/vaccine-supply.htm
II. https://www.dailypioneer.com/2021/columnists/different-boats-in-the-same-storm.html
III. https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-to-the unga/?comment=disable&tag_
term=pmspeech
IV. https://mea.gov.in/rajya-sabha.htm?dtl/31673/QUESTION+NO3692+NEIGHBOURHOOD+FIRST+POLICY
V. ibid
VI. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/34894_MEA_Annual_Report_2021-22.pdf
VII. https://news.un.org/en/story/2019/08/1044401
VIII. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/34894_MEA_Annual_Report_2021-22.pdf
IX. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/34894_MEA_Annual_Report_2021-22.pdf
X. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/india-to-provide-rs-6292-crore-as-development-
assistance-to-other-countries-rs-200-crore-for-afghanistan/articleshow/89281173.cms?from=mdr
XI. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/sri-lanka-seeks-additional-1-billion-credit-line-
from-india/articleshow/90492300.cms
XII. https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.l/31928/+Launch+of+eVidyaBharti+and+eArogyaBharti+Projec
t+by+External+Affairs+Minister+October+09+2019
XIII. http://mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/33569_MEA_annual_Report.pdf
XIV. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/34894_MEA_Annual_Report_2021-22.pdf
XV. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1757944
XVI. https://meadashboard.gov.in/indicators/130
XVII. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/29120_MEAs_Digital_Diplomacy_Footprint.pdf
XVIII. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/34894_MEA_Annual_Report_2021-22.pdf
XIX. https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/cowin-goes-global-india-makes-tech-open-
source-142-nations-show-interest-121070501046_1.html
XX. https://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/35145/List_of_Projects_launched_documents_
exchanged_and_announcements_made_during_the_official_visit_of_Prime_Minister_of_Nepal_to_
India
XXI. https://www.mea.gov.in/incoming-visit-detail.htm?35147/
+of+Prime+Minister+of+Nepal+HE+Mr+Sher+Bahadur+Deuba+to+India+April+0103+2022
XXII. https://mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/35225/Release_of_Indian_sailors_on_the_ship_Rwabee_
from_Houthi_detention
XXIII. https://www.opindia.com/2022/04/indian-sailors-houthis-yemen-swanaa-oman-prime-minister-
narendra-modi/
XXIV. Amrita Narlikar (2017), ‘India’s role in Global governance: a Modi-fication’, International Affairs,
93: 1, p. 111.
XXV.https://southasianvoices.org/s-jaishankars-u-s-visit-five-key-takeaways/
XXVI. https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lays-the-foundation-stone-of-who-global-
centre-for-traditional-medicine-in-jamnagar/?comment=disable
XXVII. https://www.dailypioneer.com/2021/columnists/different-boats-in-the-same-storm.html
XXVIII. https://www.mea.gov.in/rajya-sabha.htm?dtl/34972/

35 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

 QUESTION+NO1822+INDIANS+BROUGHT+BACK+UNDER+VANDE+BHARAT+MISSION
XXIX. https://www.mea.gov.in/Images/CPV/ru1822-17-22.pdf
XXX. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1637314
XXXI. https://www.mea.gov.in/media-briefings.htm?dtl/34904/Transcript_of_Special_Briefing_on_
Operation_Ganga_by_Foreign_Secretary_Shri_Harsh_Vardhan_Shringla_February_27_2022
XXXII. https://mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/34903/Control_Centres_to_assist_in_Operation_Ganga_
for_evacuation_of_Indian_nationals_from_Ukraine
XXXIII. https://mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/34903/Control_Centres_to_assist_in_Operation_Ganga_
for_evacuation_of_Indian_nationals_from_Ukraine
XXXIV. https://www.livemint.com/news/india/centre-establishes-24x7-control-rooms-for-evacuation-of-
indians-from-ukraine-11646010625501.html
XXXV. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1807629
XXXVI. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1806335
XXXVII. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1806335
XXXVIII. https://mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/34643/
Devi+Shakti+and+shipment+of+humanitarian+assistance+for+the+people+of+Afghanistan
XXXIX. https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/34885/Humanitarian+Assistance+to+Afghanistan
XL. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1664423
XLI. https://mea.gov.in/Speeches-Statements.htm?dtl/32838/PMs_Address_in_ECOSOC_commemoration_
of_UNs_75th_Anniversary
XLII. https://mea.gov.in/Speeches-Statements.htm?dtl/33064/English_translation_of_Prime_Ministers_
address_at_75th_United_Nations_General_Assembly
XLIII. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1812317#:~:text=India%20exported%20
pharmaceuticals%20worth%20Rs,in%20financial%20year%202020%2D21
XLIV. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1796883#:~:text=Foreign%20Direct%20
Investment%20inflows%20(FDI,have%20been%20reported%20into%20India.
XLV. https://commerce.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Major-Achievements-of-DoC-for-March-2022.
pdf
XLVI. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/international-yoga-day-2021-from-the-first-to-the-
seventh-edition-101624248743717.html
XLVII. https://www.opindia.com/2019/09/culture-as-a-soft-power-diplomacy-transforming-indias-global-
image/
XLVIII. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1729072
XLIX. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1728900
L. https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-on-international-yoga-day/?tag_
term=pmspeech&comment=disable
LI. https://www.vinaysahasrabuddhe.in/pdf/iccr-2018-21.pdf
LII. https://www.republicworld.com/world-news/global-event-news/pm-modi-champions-india-as-the-
mother-of-democracy-as-he-addresses-unga-for-the-4th-time.html
LIII. https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-congratulates-distinguished-architect-shri-
balkrishna-doshi-on-being-awarded-uks-royal-gold-medal-2022/?comment=disable
LIV. https://www.indicasoftpower.com/ramayana-of-india-loved-in-indonesia-how-the-great-indian-epic-
ties-india-to-asia-and-asean-in-an-unbreakable-bond/
LV. https://www.indicasoftpower.com/ramayana-of-india-loved-in-indonesia-how-the-great-indian-epic-
 ties-india-to-asia-and-asean-in-an-unbreakable-bond/
LVI. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1551935
LVII. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/city/lucknow/ayodhya-ambassadors-of-vietnam-kenya-
and-trinidad-and-tobago-perform-raj-tilak-of-characters-of-ramayana/videoshow/87512211.cms
LVIII. https://www.news18.com/news/opinion/ramayana-a-indian-soft-power-for-the-21st-
century-4711679.html
LIX. https://www.orfonline.org/research/the-rising-role-of-buddhism-in-indias-soft-power-strategy/
LX. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/32489_AR_Spread_2020_new.pdf
LXI. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3fD7jaj5jw
LXII. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/34894_MEA_Annual_Report_2021-22.pdf
LXIII. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1769877
LXIV. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/34894_MEA_Annual_Report_2021-22.pdf
LXV. https://zeenews.india.com/india/little-guru-india-launches-first-ever-app-that-teaches-sanskrit-
language-2354482.html
LXVI. http://www.mea.gov.in/Uploads/PublicationDocs/34894_MEA_Annual_Report_2021-22.pdf
LXVII. https://www.mea.gov.in/images/pdf/Final-CTB-Book-English-28052018.pdf
LXVIII. https://zeenews.india.com/world/pm-narendra-modi-addresses-indian-diaspora-in-denmark-
urges-them-to-inspire-5-non-indian-friends-to-visit-india-2460028.html
LXIX. http://www.pprc.in/Study-Report
LXX. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visit/mea-launches-global-pravasi-rishta-portal-and-app-to-
connect-with-3-12-crore-strong-diaspora/articleshow/80030326.cms?from=mdr
LXXI. https://pravasirishta.gov.in/home
LXXII. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/full-text-of-pm-modi-s-address-at-75th-unga-
session-2020/story-8sOpyLIDesleUtIhRYdIWJ.html
LXXIII. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/modi-debuts-at-wef-speaks-on-global-challenges-
read-full-text/story-meKPD0xi7nZTrRz6jeDh9M.html
LXXIV. https://www.livemint.com/news/india/pm-modi-s-address-at-76th-un-session-top-5-quotes-of-
pm-s-unga-speech-11632616457995.html
LXXV. ibid
LXXVI. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/india-natural-ally-of-g7-pm-narendra-modi/
articleshow/83485070.cms?from=mdr
LXXVII. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-saved-lives-by-sending-vaccines-to-world-top-pm-quotes-
at-davos-2713410
LXXVIII.

37 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy

Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy | 38
39 | Modi @ 8: ‘AtamVishwas se AtamNirbharta’- India’s Hegemony in Global Diplomacy
 PUB L IC POL IC Y R E S E AC H C E NTR E ( P P RC )
PP6 6 , D r M o o ke r je e S m ru t i Nyas, Su bramania Bhar t i M arg
New D elhi- 1 1 0 0 0 3
T: 011-23381844 E : co nt ac t @ pprc. in W: w w w. pprc. in
Fa ce b o o k : P P RC I nd ia Tw : @ PPRC I nd ia