A resource crunch need not hurt our soft power

Source: The post is based on the article “A resource crunch need not hurt our soft power” published in Live Mint on 14^th December 2022.

Syllabus: GS 2 – International Relations

Relevance: ways to utilize India’s soft power

News: The parliamentary committee on external affairs has tabled the report titled “India’s Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy: Prospects & Limitations”. The report contains recommendations on ways to utilize India’s soft powers along with conventional diplomacy.

What are the key findings of the report?

There has not been an adequate attempt from the government despite having a vast number of soft resources (fine and performing arts, literature, cuisine, traditional medicine, etc.) towards fulfilling policy goals.

The reports highlighted various reasons behind this such as lack of inter-ministerial coordination and resources.

What can be the way ahead?

India’s G20 presidency is a great opportunity to showcase its soft power to the world. India also faces a shortage of funds to utilize its soft resources. Therefore, the following options can be adopted as an alternative –

First, India is the world’s largest democracy. Therefore, its soft power should not be limited to sharing only election best-practices. It should also extend to sharing of other better practices such as the framework of democratic institutions which counter-balance executive overreach.

Second, private sectors should be involved to fill the gaps left by official agencies. This includes the involvement of India Inc to partner with the government in sharing India’s inexhaustible talent pool with the rest of the world.