New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India will never allow external forces to dictate its choices and will always prioritize its national interest and global good. Speaking through a video message at a function in Mumbai on Saturday, Jaishankar said that India will not be intimidated into conforming to others’ expectations.
“In an age of globalization, technology and tradition must march together,” Jaishankar said, stressing the importance of blending modern advancements with India’s rich cultural heritage. He added, “Bharat will inevitably progress but it must do so without losing its Bharatiyata. Only then can we truly emerge as a leading power in a multi-polar world.”
S Jaishankar conferred 27th SIES Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswati National Eminence Award
Jaishankar was conferred the 27th SIES Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswati National Eminence Award for his contributions to public leadership. The award is named after the late 68th Seer of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi, and honors individuals in four fields: Public Leadership, Community Leadership, Human Endeavour, Science and Technology, and Social Leadership. While Jaishankar did not attend the event in person, his message was delivered through the video.
During his message, Jaishankar shared his perspective on India’s role in the world. He said that “Independence should never be confused with neutrality,” reaffirming India’s commitment to doing what is right for the country and the global community, without being pressured to conform to external opinions. “We will do whatever is right in our national interest and for global good without being intimidated to conform. Bharat can never permit others to have a veto on its choices,” he emphasized.
S Jaishankar highlights India’s journey
Jaishankar also reflected on India’s journey of progress. “For too long we were schooled to visualise progress and modernity as a rejection of our heritage and traditions,” he said. He said that this mindset could have been influenced by a preference for foreign models or a discomfort with India’s own practices. However, Jaishankar believes that India is rediscovering its true self, with the deepening of democracy bringing more authentic voices to the forefront.
He described India as a “civilisation state,” which he believes is key to the country’s influence on the global stage. “India is an exceptional nation because it is a civilisation state,” Jaishankar said. “Such a country will only exercise influence when it fully leverages its cultural strengths in the global arena.” He said that the younger generation must understand and value India’s heritage. This awareness, he said, must resonate at the societal level to make a meaningful impact.
Looking at India’s future, Jaishankar noted that the country stands at a crucial point in history. Over the past decade, India has demonstrated its capabilities, confidence, and commitment to advancing development across multiple areas.
Jaishankar acknowledged the country’s progress in addressing challenges like poverty, discrimination, and lack of opportunities. On the global stage, India has established itself as an independent power, yet one dedicated to the well-being of the global south.
However, Jaishankar also recognized the ongoing challenges India faces. Despite the progress made, there are still constraints that limit the country’s potential. He pointed out that some viewpoints and ideologies remain pessimistic and critical of India. “There are viewpoints and ideologies which are more pessimistic and even denigrating of ourselves,” he added.
Jaishankar reiterated India’s determination to continue its progress while staying true to its cultural roots. He emphasized the importance of balancing tradition and modernity to ensure the country’s leadership in a rapidly changing world.
