‘Wisdon is to live in tune with the model of the changing world’ - Thiruvalluvar
Introduction
In “The India Way,” S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, presents a compelling vision of India’s foreign policy and strategic autonomy in a rapidly changing global landscape. As someone interested in international relations, I found this book to be an enlightening read that offers a unique perspective from someone who has been at the forefront of India’s diplomatic engagements.
In the book, Jaishankar discusses India’s foreign policy and strategic autonomy in a rapidly changing global landscape. He also discusses India’s role in the Indo-Pacific region, India’s relationship with the US and Europe, India’s relationship with China, and India’s relationship with other countries. The book also discusses India’s economic diplomacy, regional diplomacy, multilateralism and global governance, and security challenges.
Chapter 1 : The Lessons of Awadh
The Dangers of strategic Complacency
The book begins with an insightful analysis of how India navigates complex international relations. I particularly appreciated Jaishankar’s explanation of how India balances its relationships with major powers while maintaining strategic independence. In here the book describes the equation of power and how it is changing in the world along with the shift in power in last few decades.
Chapter 2 : The Art of Disruption
The United States in a Flatter World
In this chapter the author describes the changing world order and how the US is trying to maintain its hegemony in the world. The author also describes the changing dynamics of the US-China relationship and how it is affecting the world order. The author also describes the need of India to engage in border set of partners more creatively.
Chapter 3 : Krishna’s Choice
The Strategic Culture of a Rising Power
This chapter is a very interesting chapter. In here author talks about the issues in global politics along with a need of balance of power. Author takes references from Mahabharat to explain the necessity of ethical grounds for the nation.
Chapter 4 : The Dogmas of Delhi
Overcoming the Hesitations of History
The author’s reflections on India’s evolving relationship with the US and European nations were thought-provoking. I appreciated his balanced view on the benefits of closer ties with the West while maintaining India’s strategic autonomy. The author also describes the changing structure of international order. Author talks about avoiding obsession about consistency because it makes a little sense in such a dynamic world.
Chapter 5 : Of Mandarins and Masses
Public Opinion and The West
This chapter examines India’s regional relationships in detail. Jaishankar’s analysis of India’s approach to its immediate neighbors and the broader South Asian region provides valuable insights into the country’s neighborhood policy. The Indo-American relationship is at the heart of the overall approach to the west.
Chapter 6 : The Nimzo-Indian Defence
Managing China’s Rise
The discussion on how rising nationalism affects diplomatic engagements was particularly relevant in today’s context. I found the author’s analysis of how India must adapt to this shift while asserting its national interests to be compelling. This mainly talks about relationship with China and how India should manage it.
Chapter 7 : A Delayed Destiny
India, Japan and the Asian Balance
This chapter talks about the relationship between India and China. The author also describes different aspects of the relationship between India and China. The role of India in how it can handle the relationship with China is also discussed in this chapter along with the role of Japan in the region. This chapter also talks about the inportance of our relationship with Japan.
Chapter 8 : The Pacific Indian
A Re-emerging Maritime Outlook
This chapter talks about the origin of the term ‘Indo-Pacific’. Also dives in to the situation in the Indo-Pacific region.
After the Virus
The Future of India’s Foreign Policy
This chapter talks about the situation in the world after the pandemic. How india responded to the pendemic and how it is affecting the world. Authors also describe the role of India in the world after the pandemic.
Overall Analysis
What I particularly appreciated about this book was Jaishankar’s ability to explain complex geopolitical situations in a clear and accessible manner. His firsthand experience in diplomacy adds authenticity to the narrative, making it a valuable resource for understanding India’s foreign policy approach.
I would recommend this book to:
- Students of international relations and political science
- Professionals working in foreign policy and diplomacy
- Readers interested in understanding India’s global role
- Anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities of modern geopolitics