Book Review of Dr S. Jaishankar’s latest Book – Why Bharat Matters : Navigating Global Challenges and India’s Rise on the World Stage: Part 2

Dr. S. Jaishankar”s latest work, “Why Bharat Matters” , transcends the boundaries of a conventional foreign policy memoir.

BRIG Hemant Mahajan

Book Title: Why Bharat Matters: A Profound Insight into India’s Global SignificanceAuthor: Dr. S. Jaishankar, Indian Foreign Minister, Non-fiction, International Relations,Pages: 226, MRP: Rs. 695/-  In his thought-provoking book, “Why Bharat Matters,” Dr. S. Jaishankar, the Indian Foreign Minister, offers a compelling exploration of India’s global significance in the 21st century. Drawing from his vast experience as a diplomat and his deep understanding of international relations, Dr. Jaishankar presents a comprehensive analysis of India’s role and its potential to shape the world order.  “Why Bharat Matters” covers many other aspects that make it a noteworthy book:Geopolitical Analysis: Dr. Jaishankar provides a comprehensive examination of India’s geopolitical position. He analyzes India’s relationships with key global powers, including the United States, China, and Russia, and explores the implications of these dynamics for India’s foreign policy choices. Regional Dynamics: The book delves into India’s relationships with its immediate neighbors, such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Dr. Jaishankar explores the complexities and opportunities within these regional dynamics, emphasizing the importance of fostering stability and cooperation. Multilateralism and Global Governance: Dr. Jaishankar discusses India’s active engagement in multilateral forums, such as the United Nations, G20, and BRICS. He highlights India’s role in shaping global governance and advocates for a more inclusive and representative international order. 

Security Challenges: The book addresses the security challenges faced by India, including terrorism, cyber threats, and maritime security. Dr. Jaishankar provides insights into India’s approach to countering these challenges and emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts on a global scale. Cultural Diplomacy: Dr. Jaishankar explores the soft power potential of India’s rich cultural heritage. He highlights the role of cultural diplomacy in promoting India’s image abroad and deepening people-to-people connections. Economic Diplomacy: The book examines India’s economic diplomacy efforts, including trade agreements, investment initiatives, and the promotion of entrepreneurship. Dr. Jaishankar underscores India’s economic potential and its aspirations to become a global economic powerhouse. Climate Change and Sustainable Development: Dr. Jaishankar acknowledges the importance of addressing climate change and achieving sustainable development. He discusses India’s commitment to renewable energy, climate diplomacy, and its efforts to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. Historical Context: Dr. Jaishankar provides a historical context to India’s global significance by highlighting its ancient civilizational heritage. He explores the contributions of India’s ancient philosophers, scientists, and scholars, emphasizing the long-standing cultural and intellectual influence that India has had on the world. Diplomatic Challenges: The book delves into the challenges that India faces in its diplomatic endeavors. Dr. Jaishankar discusses issues such as balancing competing interests, managing complex relationships, and navigating global power shifts. He offers insights into the diplomatic strategies employed by India to overcome these challenges.Soft Power and Public Diplomacy: Dr. Jaishankar emphasizes the importance of India’s soft power in enhancing its global influence. He discusses India’s cultural exports, such as yoga, Bollywood, and cuisine, and how they contribute to shaping positive perceptions of India and fostering stronger international relations. Diaspora Engagement: The book acknowledges the significance of India’s diaspora and its role in India’s global outreach. Dr. Jaishankar explores how the Indian diaspora, which is spread across the globe, acts as a bridge between India and their adopted countries, contributing to economic, cultural, and political ties. Strategic Autonomy: Dr. Jaishankar emphasizes the concept of strategic autonomy in India’s foreign policy. He explains how India seeks to maintain its independence and decision-making capacity while engaging with multiple global powers and pursuing its national interests. India’s Neighborhood First Policy: The book highlights India’s “Neighborhood First” policy, which underscores the importance of fostering strong relationships with its neighboring countries. Dr. Jaishankar discusses the rationale behind this policy and the efforts India has made to enhance regional cooperation and connectivity. Crisis Management and Humanitarian Diplomacy: Dr. Jaishankar provides insights into India’s approach to crisis management and humanitarian diplomacy. He discusses India’s role in providing aid and assistance during natural disasters and humanitarian crises, showcasing India’s commitment to global cooperation and its willingness to contribute to international peace and stability. Technology and Innovation: The book explores India’s growing role in technology and innovation. Dr. Jaishankar discusses India’s advancements in areas such as information technology, space exploration, and renewable energy, and how these contribute to India’s global standing as a knowledge hub. Indo-Pacific and Security Architecture: Dr. Jaishankar discusses India’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region and its approach to shaping the security architecture in the area. He explores India’s partnerships with like-minded countries, such as the Quad (India, United States, Japan, and Australia), and emphasizes the importance of a rules-based order and freedom of navigation in the region.Counterterrorism and Global Security: The book delves into India’s efforts in countering terrorism and its role in global security. Dr. Jaishankar highlights the various challenges posed by terrorism and emphasizes the need for international cooperation to combat this menace. He also discusses India’s contributions to peacekeeping operations under the United Nations. Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power: Dr. Jaishankar further explores the concept of cultural diplomacy and soft power in India’s foreign policy. He elaborates on India’s cultural heritage, including its art, music, literature, and spiritual traditions, and how they contribute to enhancing India’s global influence and building bridges with other nations. Economic Diplomacy and Global Trade: The book delves into India’s economic diplomacy efforts and its role in global trade. Dr. Jaishankar discusses India’s participation in regional and global trade agreements, such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and the country’s efforts to enhance economic cooperation with various regions and countries. Sustainable Development: Dr. Jaishankar addresses India’s commitment to climate diplomacy and sustainable development. He highlights India’s efforts to address climate change, including the International Solar Alliance and its focus on renewable energy. He also emphasizes the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.Digital Diplomacy and Technology: The book explores India’s engagement in digital diplomacy and the role of technology in shaping international relations. Dr. Jaishankar discusses India’s initiatives in digital connectivity, e-governance, and leveraging technology for development, highlighting how these efforts contribute to India’s global relevance. Public-Private Partnerships: Dr. Jaishankar emphasizes the significance of public-private partnerships in India’s foreign policy. He discusses the role of businesses and entrepreneurs in promoting economic ties and fostering innovation. Strategic Outlook and Future Challenges: Dr. Jaishankar reflects on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, including evolving power dynamics, technological advancements, and global governance reforms. He provides insights into India’s approach to navigating these complexities and shaping its future trajectory. Vision for the Future- Dr. Jaishankar offers his perspectives on emerging geopolitical trends and their potential impact on India’s role in the future. He discusses issues such as the rise of Asia, the evolving nature of power dynamics, and the need for greater collaboration in addressing global challenges. He outlines the key principles that should guide India’s foreign policy, highlighting the importance of strategic autonomy, inclusive growth, and a rules-based international order. “Why Bharat Matters” is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of India’s global significance and its evolving role in the world. Dr. S. Jaishankar’s expertise and nuanced analysis make the book a compelling read for those interested in understanding the complexities of India’s foreign policy and its aspirations to shape the geopolitical landscape.  Concluding Remarks  Dr. S. Jaishankar’s latest work, “Why Bharat Matters,” transcends the boundaries of a conventional foreign policy memoir. Instead, it resonates as a compelling call to all Indians, urging them to fathom the nation’s pivotal role amidst a swiftly transforming world. Navigating the tumultuous waters of contemporary geopolitics, Jaishankar artfully emphasizes India’s distinctive position as a burgeoning power confronting intricate challenges while embracing its profound civilizational identity. In terms of writing style, Dr. Jaishankar’s prose is lucid and engaging. He effortlessly navigates complex subjects, making them accessible to readers with varying levels of familiarity with international relations. The book strikes a fine balance between academic analysis and a conversational tone, ensuring that readers remain engrossed throughout.  Essential Read For Anyone Seeking A Deeper Understanding Of India’s Role In The Global Arena  “Why Bharat Matters” is an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of India’s role in the global arena. Dr. S. Jaishankar’s expertise and eloquence shine through, providing readers with valuable insights into India’s foreign policy priorities, its aspirations, and the challenges it faces. This book not only serves as a significant contribution to the field of international relations but also inspires readers to recognize the relevance of India’s rise on the world stage. The accessibility of the book is a notable strength. Jaishankar demystifies intricate foreign policy concepts, rendering them pertinent to the daily lives of Indian citizens. He illustrates how global events, ranging from trade agreements to security threats, directly impact the lives of Indians, influencing everything from job creation to national security. This isn’t an arid academic treatise; it’s a rallying cry for active engagement with the world around us. Jaishankar doesn’t evade critical self-reflection, acknowledging the internal and external challenges that India confronts. The recurring theme of the need for stability amid global unpredictability is underscored, emphasizing the significance of strategic planning and agility in navigating the turbulent times ahead.  Why Bharat Matters  Beyond geopolitics, “Why Bharat Matters” stands as a celebration of India’s rich civilizational heritage. Jaishankar eloquently interweaves India’s history, culture, and values into the narrative, illustrating how these timeless elements shape its foreign policy approach. This isn’t just about India’s ascent on the world stage; it’s about reclaiming its rightful place as a civilizational state with a distinctive contribution to offer the world. The key takeaways from the book encapsulate the essence of global unpredictability demanding active engagement, India’s rise being intertwined with the well-being of the Global South, the tangible impact of foreign policy on daily life, the influence of India’s civilizational heritage on its foreign policy, and the imperative of strategic planning and agility for navigating the future. “Why Bharat Matters” is indispensable for anyone intrigued by India’s global standing, regardless of their nationality. It serves as a timely and insightful analysis of India’s multifaceted challenges and opportunities, reaffirming the nation’s potential to shape a brighter future for itself and the world. Jaishankar’s work transcends intellectual discourse; it’s a call to action, an invitation to join India on its journey towards growth and global leadership while remaining true to its unique identity. While primarily focused on India’s global role, the book provides valuable insights into international relations and the evolving power dynamics worldwide. Dr. Jaishankar’s personal anecdotes and experiences as Foreign Minister infuse the book with a human touch, making it both informative and engaging. Published at a crucial juncture as India embarks on its “Amrit Kaal,” a 25-year period leading to the centenary of its independence, the book serves as a roadmap for navigating the forthcoming challenges and opportunities. “Why Bharat Matters” is an intellectually stimulating and enlightening book that sheds light on India’s global significance. Dr. S. Jaishankar’s erudition and firsthand experiences make it a compelling read for anyone interested in international affairs, diplomacy, or India’s evolving role in shaping the world order. The book “Why Bharat Matters” recommended to anyone eager to comprehend India’s global positioning and its potential to shape a better future. It is a thought-provoking read that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.