[Yojana December 2023 Summary] India’s Growing Stature – A Rising Power- Explained Pointwise

Last nine years has overseen India’s growing stature in the international arena. India has now entered the period of Kartavya Kaal, which will provide a golden opportunity for India to achieve unprecedented levels of scientific, technological, economic, and social progress. Today, India has emerged as a Vishwa Mitra (global friend), a Vishwa Guru (global teacher) and a Vishwa Vaid (global physician).

What are the reasons behind India’s growing stature as a rising power in recent times?

India’s emergence as a global leader and rising international power stems from various factors:

1) Diplomatic Engagements: India actively engages in multilateral forums, maintains diplomatic relations with various countries, and actively participates in global discussions, contributing to its role as a global leader.
For instance, India’s Presidency of the G20 this year, despite doubts expressed by the perennial naysayers in India and around the world, was a big success in building consensus on key issues such as the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), macro-economic stability, digital public infrastructure, climate challenge, a just and equitable green transition, and reforms of multilateral structures.

2) Global Partnerships: Strengthening ties with various countries through trade agreements, strategic partnerships, and collaborations in fields like defense, technology, and healthcare have contributed to India’s rise as a global leader.
For instance, the inclusion of the African Union (AU) into the G20 at the New Delhi Summit, hinged on India’s strong advocacy of ‘leaving none behind’.
India is also part of important multilateral institutions such as I2U2, QUAD, BIMSTEC, BRICS, Supply Chain Resilience Initiative, etc.

3) Soft Power and Culture: India’s rich cultural heritage, Bollywood, cuisine, yoga, and diverse traditions contribute to its soft power, influencing global perceptions and relationships.
For instance, International Day of Yoga, Medical Visa, Vaccine Maitri, proposal to recognise 2023 as the International Year of Millets, etc.

4) Climate Leadership: India’s commitment to addressing climate change and its role in global climate discussions further enhances its standing on the international stage.
This includes International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), and Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS). To this list should be added the Green Grids Initiative – One Sun One World One Grid (OSOWOG), which was proposed at the First Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in 2018. Also, Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).

5) Digital Public Infrastructure: India has been at the forefront of technological advancements, particularly in the IT sector. It’s a hub for technology and innovation, fostering startups and technological development.
For instance, tech powered governance solutions such as CoWIN, UPI, Aadhar, Aarogya Setu, etc.

Apart from this, factors such as the following are also supporting India’s rise:

1. Strategic Geopolitical Position: India’s geographical location provides it with strategic significance, both in terms of trade routes and geopolitical influence. Its position in the Indian Ocean region amplifies its importance on the global stage.

2. Military Strength: India has been strengthening its military capabilities, enhancing its status as a regional power and contributing to global security initiatives.

3. Demographic Dividend: With a young population, India has a demographic advantage. A large, youthful workforce can be a driving force for economic growth and innovation.

4. Economic Growth: India’s economy has been growing steadily, becoming one of the fastest-growing major economies globally. Its large market size and increasing GDP contribute significantly to its global influence.

India’s emergence as a global power is a multifaceted process involving economic, technological, diplomatic, and cultural advancements that position it as an influential player in the international arena.

What are the challenges to India’s growing stature, which can make India a superpower?

India faces several challenges on its path to becoming a global leader and rising international power:

1) Economic Disparities: Despite overall economic growth, India grapples with significant economic disparities between urban and rural areas, as well as income inequality. Bridging this gap is crucial for sustainable growth and social stability and cohesion.
According to OxFam, India’s top 10% holds 77.4% of the total national wealth, while the top 1% holds 51.53% of the wealth.

2) Infrastructure Development: Infrastructure, including transportation, energy, and urban development, requires substantial investment and improvement to support the growing economy and population.

3) Political and Bureaucratic Hurdles: Bureaucratic red tape, corruption, political complexities, and governance challenges can sometimes hinder policy implementation and reforms, affecting the pace of progress.
For e.g. According to Transparency International’s (TI) Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2021, India was ranked 86 out of 180 countries

4) Security Concerns: Internal security issues, including regional conflicts, border disputes, and terrorism threats, demand attention and resources, diverting focus from economic and diplomatic efforts.
For instance, the recent Manipur issue, Galwan Valley Skirmishes.

5) Social Issues: India faces social challenges like caste divisions, gender inequality, religious strife and a lack of access of its people to basic education and healthcare.

6) Geopolitical Complexities: India’s relations with neighbouring countries and global powers can be complex due to historical tensions, territorial disputes, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Balancing relationships with different global powers, navigating alliances, and managing divergent interests among various countries poses diplomatic challenges.

7) Global Competition: As a rising power, India faces stiff competition globally, particularly from other emerging economies, necessitating consistent innovation and adaptability.
This includes countries like China, Turkiye, Indonesia.

8) Lack of Reform in Multilateral Institutions: For instance, India is not represented in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This diminishes India’s voice and influence in critical decision-making processes on global issues.

What should India do to cement its place as a rising power in global geopolitics?

To solidify its position as a rising power in global geopolitics, India can focus on several key areas:

1) Economic Reforms and Growth: Continue implementing economic reforms to foster growth, attract investments, and strengthen industries. This includes infrastructure development, ease of doing business initiatives, and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
Advancements in sectors like AI, renewable energy, biotechnology, and space exploration, can enhance India’s global standing.

2) Diplomatic Outreach: Strengthen diplomatic ties with key global players while actively participating in multilateral forums and negotiations. Forming strategic partnerships and alliances can amplify India’s influence on the global stage. Actively engage with neighbouring countries to resolve disputes and build cooperative relationships, contributing to regional stability and cooperation.

3) Military Modernization: Invest in modernizing the military to ensure security and stability in the region. This includes advancements in defence technology, joint military exercises, and collaborations with other nations on security issues.

5) Focus on Soft Power: Leverage India’s rich cultural heritage, art, cinema, cuisine, yoga, and traditional practices to enhance soft power, improving global perceptions and fostering cultural diplomacy.

6) Addressing Social Issues: Tackle social challenges such as poverty, healthcare, education, gender inequality, and social divisions to ensure inclusive growth and societal well-being.

7) Promote Global Governance: Advocate for reforms in global governance bodies to reflect the changing geopolitical landscape, seeking a more inclusive and representative global order. For instance, India’s ‘NORMS’ initiative (New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System).

By focusing on these areas and adopting a comprehensive, inclusive, and forward-looking approach, India can further solidify its role as a significant global power and positively influence global geopolitics. Collaboration, innovation, and sustained efforts in these domains will be key to cementing its place in the international arena. India’s growing stature in the international arena is indeed a moment of proud for us.