Introduction
In his thought-provoking book, “Why Bharat Matters,” Dr. S. Jaishankar, the Indian Foreign Minister, offers a compelling exploration of India’s global significance in the 21st century. Drawing from his vast experience as a diplomat and his deep understanding of international relations, Dr. Jaishankar presents a comprehensive analysis of India’s role and its potential to shape the world order.
The World Is Not Just Tough But Also Highly Unpredictable
The book commences by confronting the stark reality that the world is not just tough but also highly unpredictable. From the upheavals caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to volatile conflicts, climate change, and technological disruptions, negotiating this complex terrain demands resilience and adaptability. Jaishankar adeptly unfolds the intricate global scenario, spotlighting the ascendance of China, the evolving stance of the United States, and the pervasive influence of globalization.
Within this intricate tableau, India emerges not as a passive spectator but as a dynamic participant. Jaishankar paints a vivid portrayal of a “New India,” one that derives strength from its ancient heritage and democratic values while boldly embracing a future illuminated by technological optimism. This “Bharat,” as he underscores, aspires not solely to elevate itself but also to contribute to the well-being of the Global South and the broader global good.
Dr. Jaishankar begins by tracing the historical evolution of India’s civilizational ethos, emphasizing its rich cultural heritage and its enduring values of pluralism, inclusivity, and tolerance. This foundation serves as a backdrop for understanding India’s contemporary role in global affairs.
India’s strategic partnerships and diplomatic initiatives
One of the book’s strengths lies in its exploration of India’s strategic partnerships and diplomatic initiatives.
Dr. Jaishankar provides a detailed account of India’s engagement with major powers, such as the United States, China, Russia, and its immediate neighbors. He explains how India’s foreign policy under the current leadership has moved beyond traditional alliances and fostered deeper connections based on mutual interests and shared values.
Furthermore, the book delves into India’s growing economic prowess and its potential as an engine of global growth.
Dr. Jaishankar highlights the country’s demographic dividend, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial spirit as key factors that position India as a significant player in the global economy. He also addresses the challenges and opportunities that arise from India’s rapid urbanization and the need for sustainable development.
What sets the book apart is Dr. Jaishankar’s ability to blend personal anecdotes with geopolitical analysis. He shares insights from his diplomatic career, providing readers with a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on pivotal moments in India’s foreign policy. This approach humanizes the narrative and adds depth to the author’s arguments, making the book accessible to both policymakers and general readers alike.
He shares his insights on the foreign policy of the Modi government, the role of culture and values in shaping India’s outlook, and the lessons that can be drawn from India’s epics and heritage.
The book is a collection of 11 essays, each covering a different aspect of India’s engagement with the world.
Chapter 1-‘Presenting a World View’
The first essay, ‘Presenting a World View’, sets the tone by analysing the five phenomena that have dominated international relations in the last quarter of a century: globalization, rebalancing, multipolarity, impact of technology, and the games that nations play.
He argues that India needs to read global trends well, anticipate their implications, and respond nimbly and effectively. He also stresses the importance of having a vision, an architecture, and objectives for India’s foreign policy, based on its convictions and culture.
Chapter2- ‘Foreign Policy and You’
The second essay, ‘Foreign Policy and You’, explains how foreign policy works for the benefit of the common people, by meeting their everyday needs, ensuring their security, facilitating their aspirations, and projecting their image.
He gives examples of how the Modi government’s foreign policy has made a difference in the lives of Indians, such as the Vaccine Maitri initiative, the first responder operations, the evacuation missions, and the G20 presidency. He also urges the readers to appreciate the complexities and dilemmas of decision-making in a turbulent world, and to draw inspiration from India’s sagas and values.
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