Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and India’s Foreign Policy

By Shubham Kumar Srivastava

In today’s world, a country’s strength often lies in its foreign policy, which neither yields under pressure nor imposes its will on others. Recent times have seen India’s foreign policy gaining recognition worldwide, including from powerful nations like the United States and neighbouring countries like Pakistan.

Playing a pivotal role in India’s diplomatic prowess is its Foreign Minister, Dr S. Jaishankar. His adept handling of various international issues, akin to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, has garnered respect globally. Whether navigating the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine conflict or spearheading initiatives like hosting the G20 summit in Kashmir, Dr Jaishankar has effectively conveyed India’s stance to the world.

Despite India’s rapid economic growth, attempts to tarnish its image on international platforms have been made. However, Dr Jaishankar has adeptly countered such efforts, articulating India’s position with finesse.

 The Russia-Ukraine Conflict

During Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, global powers rallied against Russia, putting pressure on India to align with them. Yet, Dr  Jaishankar skillfully upheld India’s interests on various platforms, even challenging other nations’ reliance on Russian crude oil.

Journey to becoming Foreign Minister

Dr Jaishankar’s journey to becoming India’s External Affairs Minister in 2019 was preceded by distinguished diplomatic service, including ambassadorial roles in the United States, China, and the Czech Republic. He also served as India’s High Commissioner to Singapore, garnering recognition such as the Padma Shri award in 2019 for his contributions.

This overview highlights Dr Jaishankar’s significant role in shaping India’s foreign policy landscape, showcasing his diplomatic acumen and commitment to advancing India’s interests on the global stage.