India’s soft power tools encompass its cultural heritage, civilizational identity, communication , Sports and outreach strategies, and contributions to the sciences . These elements shape how states and people view India, influencing diplomacy and international relations .
Key components of India’s soft power toolkit:
- Cultural Diplomacy: India promotes its cultural heritage, values, and arts to create a positive global image. Dissemination of culture through practices like Yoga and Buddhism has been an attractive approach .
- Civilizational Identity: The Modi government emphasizes India’s historical contributions to science, mathematics, philosophy, and the arts to distinguish itself from other rising powers . Promoting ancient achievements in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine helps to assert the continuity of the Indian intellect .
- Yoga: The promotion of yoga as a way of life has been a key soft power strategy, exemplified by the UN declaring June 21 as International Yoga Day . Yoga and traditional medicine are presented as universal solutions for health and well-being .
- Communication and Outreach: India utilizes digital diplomacy to promote tourism through campaigns like “Incredible India”, showcasing heritage monuments and festivals . The government also promotes the “Digital India” project, highlighting technological advancements and connectivity .
- Diaspora Engagement: The Indian diaspora, estimated at over 30 million, is regarded as potential partners in fostering the nation’s interests . The diaspora is seen as a “soft power multiplier,” helping India reach more people and influence decision-making in countries with substantial Indian populations .
- Multilateral Engagements: India enhances its soft power through proactive engagement in multilateral bodies such as the UN, G20, and BRICS. It was also instrumental in creating the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to promote solar energy .
- Literature and Arts: India’s rich literary history and classical and contemporary art forms contribute to its soft power by connecting people through shared experiences and emotions .
These strategies Like India’s softwere tools collectively aim to present India as a “Vishwa guru” or “the world’s teacher,” promoting environmentalism, clean governance, and peaceful coexistence .
for editorial page click www.eminentnews.com
