Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Q4. In what ways does India’s current diplomatic approach fall short in shaping long-term international opinion? Propose institutional reforms. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the question:
Triggered by India’s post-Operation Sindoor diplomatic outreach, this question evaluates the gap between India’s growing global ambitions and its narrative-building capacity.Key Demand of the question:
The question requires identifying specific limitations in India’s current diplomatic approach in influencing global opinion, and suggesting clear, structural and institutional reforms to address them.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight the disconnect between India’s global rise and its narrative incoherence.Body
- Mention key shortcomings in India’s diplomatic strategy like ad-hocism, lack of continuity, underutilised diaspora, etc.
- Propose concrete institutional reforms such as a strategic communication authority, parliamentary oversight body, and enhanced IFS training.
Conclusion
Call for a shift from reactive to narrative-shaping diplomacy through institutional depth and strategic foresight.
