When Subrahmanyam Jaishankar took office as India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) in May 2019, he brought with him over four decades of diplomatic experience. His tenure has been marked by assertive foreign policy maneuvers, strategic realignments, and a steadfast commitment to India’s national interests.
In a notable incident at the Chatham House think tank in London, Jaishankar delivered a firm rebuttal to a Pakistani journalist’s allegations regarding Kashmir. The journalist accused India of “illegally occupying Kashmir” and claimed that “Kashmiris are up in arms,” alleging that “India has stationed one million troops to control seven million Kashmiris.”
Jaishankar responded by outlining India’s internal measures to address the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, including the abrogation of Article 370, economic development initiatives, and the conduct of elections with high voter turnout. He further emphasized that the unresolved aspect of the Kashmir issue pertained to the region under illegal Pakistani occupation, giving a highly “crafty” answer – return of stolen part of India will resolve Kashmir issue!
Simply The BestÂ
As External Affairs Minister, Jaishankar has been at the forefront of crafting and executing an assertive foreign policy that aligns with India’s evolving global aspirations.
Jaishankar has consistently championed the concept of strategic autonomy, advocating for an India that engages with multiple global powers without aligning exclusively with any. He envisions a multipolar world where India plays a pivotal role in shaping global norms and institutions.
When it comes to the Indo-Pacific Engagement, recognizing the strategic significance, Jaishankar has strengthened India’s engagement with key players, including the United States, Japan, Australia, and ASEAN countries. His efforts have been instrumental in the formation and consolidation of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), aimed at ensuring a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
Decisive Diplomatic Engagements
Jaishankar’s tenure has been marked by several instances where his diplomatic acumen has been on full display, reinforcing India’s position on critical global issues.
For example – amid global polarization over the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar maintained a balanced stance, emphasizing dialogue and diplomacy. He illustrated the importance of respecting territorial integrity while acknowledging the complexities of historical grievances.
By not taking any sides, his nuanced approach ensured that India’s interests were safeguarded without alienating key partners.
Again, the Galwan Valley clash in 2020 posed significant challenges to India-China relations. Jaishankar’s firm yet measured response emphasized the need for disengagement and de-escalation, reinforcing India’s commitment to sovereignty while keeping diplomatic channels open. His strategic handling of the situation proved his deep understanding of regional geopolitics.
Advocate of Economic Diplomacy
Jaishankar has also played a great role in leveraging economic diplomacy to strengthen India’s global standing.
He has actively sought to diversify India’s trade partnerships, reducing dependency on any single market. His efforts have led to the exploration of new trade agreements and the strengthening of existing ones, enhancing India’s economic resilience.
Recognizing the transformative potential of technology, Jaishankar has prioritized collaborations in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure. These initiatives aim to position India as a global hub for innovation and technology-driven solutions.
Public Engagement and Thought Leadership
Beyond traditional diplomacy, Jaishankar has actively engaged with the public and thought leaders to articulate India’s foreign policy perspectives.
His articulate and candid discussions on global platforms have demystified foreign policy for the general public, enabling a greater understanding of India’s strategic choices.
The First Few Steps
Born on January 9, 1955, S. Jaishankar hails from a family with a rich intellectual legacy His father, K. Subrahmanyam, was a renowned strategic affairs analyst, often referred to as the father of Indian strategic thought.
Jaishankar pursued his education at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. He furthered his academic journey at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), obtaining a master’s degree in political science and an M.Phil. and Ph.D. in international relations. His doctoral thesis focused on nuclear diplomacy, a subject that would later become central to his diplomatic endeavors.
Diplomatic Career
Jaishankar’s entry into the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1977 marked the beginning of a distinguished career that saw him face complex geopolitical equations yet strengthen India’s global standing.
Ambassador to the United States (2013–2015) – As India’s envoy to the U.S., Jaishankar played a pivotal role in enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in defense and economic sectors. His tenure coincided with the finalization of the U.S.-India civil nuclear agreement, a landmark deal that underscored India’s emergence as a responsible nuclear power.
Foreign Secretary (2015–2018): Elevated to the position of Foreign Secretary, Jaishankar was instrumental in shaping India’s foreign policy during a period marked by global uncertainties. He advocated for a more assertive and confident India on the world stage, emphasizing the importance of strategic autonomy and diversified partnerships.
The Last Bit, S. Jaishankar, A Diplomat For The New IndiaÂ
S. Jaishankar has redefined India’s diplomatic playbook, embracing a pragmatic and confident approach to foreign policy. His tenure as External Affairs Minister reflects a shift from a traditionally cautious stance to an assertive, self-assured India that does not hesitate to protect its national interests. Whether it is standing firm against China’s border incursions, countering Pakistan’s propaganda on Kashmir, or overseeing the complex Russia-Ukraine crisis, Jaishankar has showcased unparalleled diplomatic dexterity.
His ability to engage with world powers while maintaining India’s strategic autonomy sets him apart as one of India’s finest diplomats. More importantly, his articulate responses and sharp rebuttals to critics have struck a chord with the Indian public, reinforcing the idea that India’s voice on the global stage is now stronger than ever.
As India’s foreign policy continues to evolve, Jaishankar’s leadership will be crucial in shaping India’s global footprint. Whether history remembers him as India’s best External Affairs Minister remains to be seen, but under his stewardship, India’s diplomatic prowess has reached new heights, making the world sit up and take notice.
