Soft Power Diplomacy: India’s Diplomatic Engagement in South Asia

The landscape of international relations has significantly changed, moving away from a focus on hard power such as military force and economic sanctions towards the recognition of soft power as an essential diplomatic tool. Soft power, as defined by political scientist Joseph Nye, involves influencing others through attraction and persuasion, rather than coercion, through means like cultural exchanges, education, and humanitarian initiatives that build trust and convey a nation’s values. India has notably shifted its foreign policy to emphasise soft power, promoting partnerships with its neighbouring countries. This approach leverages India’s rich cultural heritage, democratic ideals, and modern global values to achieve successful diplomatic outcomes. The study highlights that soft power can impact international relations in ways that are sometimes more effective than traditional military and economic strategies. The research investigates India’s soft power strategy since the mid-1990s, focusing on its efforts to enhance relations with South Asian neighbours such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka (excluding Pakistan). It thoroughly examines aspects of India's soft power, including cultural diplomacy, economic assistance, personal engagement, and humanitarian aid illustrating its evolution and significance in diplomacy. By integrating historical and contemporary analyses, the study provides insights into the application of soft power in India’s foreign policy, emphasising the importance of cultural and ideological components in global power dynamics amid a rapidly evolving international landscape.