India came through global disruptions solidly: EAM Jaishankar
New Delhi, April 4
India has navigated recent global shocks with resilience, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said on Saturday, in a reference to the ongoing conflict in West Asia and its wider economic fallout.
In his address at the convocation ceremony of IIM Raipur, EAM Jaishankar said India has managed both domestic and external challenges "fairly successfully" despite an increasingly turbulent global environment.
He underlined that the ripple effects of conflicts are now felt far beyond their immediate geographies, reflecting the deep interdependence created by globalisation.
"No one can dispute that multiple global shocks have recently tested our resilience and that India has come through them solidly," he said.
The minister also noted that the crisis in West Asia, triggered in February following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has disrupted global fuel supply chains and led to hydrocarbon shortages.
Jaishankar also stated that building strong domestic capabilities remains the most effective way to de-risk and enhance strategic leverage.
He also pointed to a shifting global order, marked by changing balances of power and influence, and said the current turbulence is structural in nature.
Rapid developments in technology, energy, military capability, connectivity and resources have intensified competition among nations, according to him.
Everything today is being leveraged, if not weaponised, he said.
This has led to greater emphasis on hedging risks, diversification, and resilience, both in economic decisions and foreign policy, according to him.
EAM Jaishankar identified the Covid-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts, and climate change as the defining challenges of the decade. He added that more inclusive growth, representative politics and decisive leadership are helping lay a stronger foundation to deal with these disruptions.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone working in the energy sector, I can confirm the disruptions have been severe. But the government's push for diversification in fuel sources and building strategic reserves has helped cushion the blow. A practical approach.
The point about building strong domestic capabilities is key. We saw during Covid how crucial it was to have our own manufacturing for vaccines and PPE. Atmanirbhar Bharat isn't just a slogan; it's a necessity in this unstable world.
While I appreciate the positive outlook, I hope this resilience translates to the ground level for common people. Petrol prices are still pinching our pockets, and global conflicts do affect local inflation. The foundation needs to be strong for all, not just in speeches.
Jaishankar Sir always gives a clear, strategic view. The world is changing fast, and India's voice is being heard more than before. We need to keep focusing on tech and energy security to stay ahead.
Absolutely true. From managing vaccine diplomacy to navigating the Russia-Ukraine crisis for energy, India has played its cards well. It's a delicate balance, but we are managing. More power to our diplomacy!
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