India's Strategic Vision: Jaishankar Emphasizes India's Role as Go-To Option for Subcontinent Crises by 2047

S Jaishankar delivered a significant address at the Aravalli Summit held in Jawaharlal Nehru University.

New Delhi:

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized on Monday that India must position itself as the go-to option for addressing any crisis within the subcontinent.

While speaking at the Aravalli Summit focused on 'India and the World Order: Preparing for 2047' at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Jaishankar highlighted India's responsibility to "underwrite the infrastructure for cooperation" amid political instability in the region.

"This represents the core of our neighbourhood first policy. India must establish itself as the primary resource during any crisis in this subcontinent," he stated.

"We need to overcome the strategic limitations India has faced as a consequence of Partition," Mr Jaishankar further remarked.

In his analysis of global dynamics, the External Affairs Minister observed that the world is experiencing heightened competition as the focus shifts away from cooperative endeavors.

"This shift is characterized by the weaponization of everything. All nations face complex challenges. India must develop strategic approaches to continue its ascent during such volatile times. The key challenge lies in interpreting this complex global landscape," he explained.

The JNU alumnus underscored the importance of protecting national interests while simultaneously advancing India's position in the global hierarchy.

"From India's perspective, the forces of demand, demographics, and data will drive its rise. We must create innovative ideas, terminologies, and narratives for our journey toward 2047," he added.

Jaishankar urged JNU's School of International Studies (SIS) to elevate its efforts, stating that it must take on the responsibility of helping India reach higher levels of influence and emerge as a leading global power.

"SIS has consistently led the development of India's capabilities in international relations. It has served as inspiration for the expansion of international relations studies throughout the country," he noted, while emphasizing the importance of focusing on achieving the objective of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India).