India's pursuit of peace evident in Prime Minister's podcast discussion
In the ever-changing landscape of global politics, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is navigating a complex web of relationships with world leaders, emphasizing India’s self-reliance, strategic autonomy, and positioning India as a formidable global power.
Modi's approach to geopolitics is rooted in strengthening defence and technology sectors, as he promotes indigenous development in sectors like semiconductors, defence, and nuclear energy [1][2]. This strategy aims to reduce dependence on global supply chains and enhance national security.
In the context of Donald Trump’s second term in the U.S. presidency, Modi’s relationship has experienced strains. Trade disputes and differing stances on South Asia’s nuclear dynamics have fueled U.S. governmental criticism of India, narrowing Modi's political scope to deepen ties with the U.S., even as it strengthens arguments for closer relations with China and Russia [4]. Trump's personal criticism of India and the lack of consensus within the administration on China further complicate the India-U.S. partnership. However, Trump posted Modi's podcast on his media handle, which could be interpreted as an endorsement of sorts between the two leaders [5].
Modi's relationship with Russia remains important but cautious. He notably skipped Russia’s May 2025 Victory Day celebrations despite their alliance, reflecting a delicate geopolitical balancing act amid the Ukraine war and international tensions [3].
In the case of China, Modi is engaging diplomatically, balancing strategic interests amid rising tensions. There is room for optimism in Modi's projection that India and China will find ways to compete rather than confront each other in their affairs, be it trade or people's ties [6].
Regarding the Ukraine war, Modi's approach is notably cautious and rooted in strategic autonomy, avoiding overt siding with either Western powers or Russia publicly, instead emphasizing India’s independent geopolitical choices [3][4].
Modi's vehicle for outreach to the people in the age of social media is through podcasts. In these conversations, he has spoken freely about his journey from poverty to political power, including his introspection in the Himalayas and time spent at his father's tea shop [7]. He has also shared his views on India's cultural heritage and long history of advocating peace.
On the diplomatic front with Pakistan, things haven't changed much since 1965. Modi denigrated the approach of Pakistan's leaders as opposed to the people who may wish to live in peace [8]. His assessment of Pakistan was critical, given the country's history of spurning peace gestures and its use of terror as a weapon of state.
In conclusion, Modi is navigating a complex global environment by strengthening India’s capabilities and maintaining a multi-aligned diplomatic strategy without fully aligning with any single major power bloc. His approach emphasizes strategic autonomy, self-reliance, and a quest for world peace that aligns with the nation’s objectives.
References: [1] India Today [2] The Economic Times [3] The Diplomat [4] Foreign Policy [5] The Times of India [6] The Hindu [7] NDTV [8] The Indian Express
In the realm of global politics and general news, Prime Minister Modi's strategy to reduce India's reliance on global supply chains and enhance national security includes strengthening defense and technology sectors, such as semiconductors, defense, and nuclear energy. Despite strained relations with the U.S. during Donald Trump's second term, Modi's approach to geopolitics remains multifaceted, engaging diplomatically with China and Russia, while maintaining a cautious stance regarding the Ukraine war and avoiding overt siding with either Western powers or Russia. Modi is also leveraging social media platforms, like podcasts, to reach the people and share his vision of world peace, cultural heritage, and self-reliance.
