During the book launch event for his latest work, 'Why Bharat Matters,' External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his view that while the global scenario in 2024 is expected to be turbulent, India is well-positioned both politically and economically to navigate challenges, sustain its rising global role, and continue its path of development. The minister, addressing a diverse audience including foreign diplomats, strategic affairs experts, academicians, and intellectuals, highlighted India's confidence in facing the coming year.
The new book by Jaishankar delves into the geopolitics and various facets of India's foreign policy since Independence, using the epic Ramayana as a comprehensive perspective. The minister shared insights into the anticipated challenges of 2024, acknowledging the persistence of factors from the previous year. However, he expressed optimism about India's current political and economic standing, emphasizing the nation's growth in societal changes and capabilities.
During the event hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), Jaishankar discussed India's historical engagement with China, touching upon the policies of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. He suggested that a more 'Bharat' approach could have led to a different perspective on the relationship with China, especially in the initial post-independence decade. The minister referred to historical records, including letters exchanged between Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Pandit Nehru regarding China, highlighting their differing views.
Jaishankar also addressed Nehru's approach to China's entry into the UN Security Council and his hesitancy in accepting assistance from the US after the 1962 war with China. The minister acknowledged ingrained hostility towards the United States during that period. He discussed Sardar Patel's viewpoint on foreign policy, suggesting a need to assess America based on India's interests rather than through the lens of its dealings with China.
On the topic of economic reforms, Jaishankar acknowledged that India fell short in its early efforts and noted the importance of a more sweeping approach. Reflecting on globalization, he emphasized the need to benefit more substantially from economic reforms.
Responding to a question on internal constraints, the minister pointed out areas where India could have made more progress in basic social and economic indicators in the first 60 years after Independence. He discussed aspects such as electricity and water connectivity, literacy rates, gender ratios, and healthcare, stating that India could have achieved more in these areas.
In the context of his book, Jaishankar explained how he uses the Ramayana as a lens to explore various aspects of geopolitics and statecraft. He drew parallels from the epic, emphasizing the importance of reliable friends and allies in international relations, referring to the relationship between Ram and Laxman as an example.
