How Has India's Foreign Policy Evolved in the Last Decade? Insights from Harsh Vardhan Shringla (IANS Interview)

New Delhi, July 13 (NationPress) Harsh Vardhan Shringla, the former Foreign Secretary and India’s Ambassador to the US, recently discussed his nomination to the Rajya Sabha in an exclusive interview with IANS.

He conveyed his appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this new responsibility, highlighting India's rising global influence under Modi's leadership.

IANS: As a new Rajya Sabha member, how do you view Prime Minister Modi?

Harsh Vardhan Shringla: I am sincerely thankful to him for granting me this significant opportunity. With a career spanning 40 years in diplomacy, I look forward to contributing to our nation’s progress through Parliament. My heartfelt thanks also go to President Droupadi Murmu for this prestigious honour.

IANS: What was your reaction to your nomination?

Harsh Vardhan Shringla: I learned about it through the official gazette notification, but prior to that, Prime Minister Modi personally reached out to me. He hinted at an important opportunity to serve the nation without detailing what it entailed. It was a moving experience to receive such a personal call from him, especially given my previous roles as Foreign Secretary and Ambassador to the US.

IANS: Can you comment on India’s foreign policy under Prime Minister Modi?

Harsh Vardhan Shringla: When you compare India’s global perception today to a decade ago, the transformation is remarkable. India is now regarded with significant respect globally. Our leadership in technology, innovation, and digital public infrastructure is recognized worldwide. During the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi initiated Vaccine Maitri, enabling India to supply vaccines to numerous developing nations. While other countries hesitated due to domestic priorities, India stepped up to assist when it was most needed. PM Modi’s international recognitions further reflect India's enhanced stature. Recently, during an all-party delegation trip to Kuwait, Algeria, and Bahrain post Operation Sindoor, I witnessed leaders commend PM Modi for strengthening our relationships with Gulf nations.

IANS: What are your thoughts on Rahul Gandhi's frequent foreign travels?

Harsh Vardhan Shringla: Traveling abroad is normal, but making disparaging remarks about your own country while overseas is unacceptable. Such behaviour is not well-received by the Indian populace. On recent delegations, even opposition leaders joined us to showcase a united front. Criticism of the nation during sensitive times is inappropriate.

IANS: Rahul Gandhi has called for a parliamentary debate on Operation Sindoor, labeling it as “Narendra Surrender.” How do you respond?

Harsh Vardhan Shringla: Such claims are entirely unfounded. The world witnessed India's assertiveness, executing a successful operation with precision that resulted in significant losses for Pakistan. Within four days, our military effectively used BrahMos missiles to target nine terrorist bases. Pakistan even sought a ceasefire, demonstrating our operational success. NSA Ajit Doval confirmed no Indian assets were harmed, and satellite imagery shows the damage inflicted on Pakistani military installations. It was a decisive victory for India.

IANS: What’s your take on the Opposition's criticism of India’s foreign policy and their glorification of past diplomatic efforts by the Gandhi family?

Harsh Vardhan Shringla: When there is a lack of substance, distractions and slogans surface. Speaking disparagingly about your own country on international platforms is immature and detrimental. The public is observant and can see through the Congress’s theatrics. Under the current administration, the national security challenges of the past have diminished, and India now commands global respect and confidence due to strong leadership.