External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, on Saturday, asserted that India will never allow external forces to have a veto over its decisions, underscoring that the nation will act in its national interest and for the global good without succumbing to pressure to conform.
In a video message delivered during the 27th SIES Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswati National Eminence Awards ceremony in Mumbai, Jaishankar highlighted India’s growing global prominence and the profound implications it carries.
“In a world facing unhealthy habits, stressed lifestyles, and recurring climate challenges, India’s heritage offers valuable lessons,” Jaishankar said. “But the world will only recognize this when Indians take pride in their own culture.”
Stressing the importance of harmonising tradition with technology in the age of globalisation, he added, “Bharat will inevitably progress, but it must do so without losing its Bharatiyata. Only then can we truly emerge as a leading power in a multi-polar world.”
Jaishankar, who could not attend the event in person, was conferred the award in the Public Leadership category. In his message, he underscored that independence should not be confused with neutrality.
“We will do whatever is right for our national interest and global good without being intimidated to conform. Bharat can never permit others to have a veto on its choices,” he said.
Reflecting on India’s journey, Jaishankar observed that for too long, progress and modernity were viewed as a rejection of heritage and traditions, driven by an affinity for imported models. However, with democracy bringing more authentic voices to the forefront, India is rediscovering its identity and cultural persona.
“India is a civilization state, and such a nation will only wield influence when it fully leverages its cultural strengths on the global stage,” he stated.
Jaishankar acknowledged the progress India has made over the past decade in addressing age-old issues like poverty, discrimination, and lack of opportunities. “India has demonstrated the capabilities, confidence, and commitment to advance development across broad fronts,” he noted.
On the global stage, India has established itself as an independent power committed to the well-being of the Global South, he said. However, he cautioned that challenges remain, including pessimistic viewpoints and ideologies that undermine India’s progress.
Calling on the younger generation to recognize the value of India’s heritage, Jaishankar underscored that this awareness must permeate society. “Such cultural articulation is crucial for India to fully harness its potential and exercise influence globally,” he concluded.
The SIES Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswati National Eminence Awards, named after the late 68th Seer of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, honor excellence in Public Leadership, Community Leadership, Science and Technology, and Social Leadership with an emphasis on spiritualism.
(With inputs from PTI)
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