Q.20. “India has emerged as Vishwa Mitra(global friend), a Vishwa Guru (global teacher) and a Vishwa Vaidya (global physician).” Examine the statement in light of the development made by India in recent years.
16,Oct 2024
Posted By : SPM IAS Academy
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The given statement highlights India’s increasing global influence across multiple dimensions, including diplomacy, knowledge sharing, and healthcare leadership. India’s recent strides in these areas demonstrate its evolving role on the world stage.
1. India as Vishwa Mitra (Global Friend):
Diplomacy and Strategic Partnerships: India has strengthened its role as a global partner through key international forums like the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), collaborating on regional security, climate action, and global peace. India’s role in the International Solar Alliance (ISA), initiated alongside France, highlights its commitment to tackling climate change by promoting clean energy cooperation globally.
Humanitarian Aid: India has extended substantial humanitarian aid to countries during crises. For instance, it sent Operation Samudra Setu and Operation Maitri teams for disaster relief in countries like Nepal and the Maldives. India’s consistent support to African nations through capacity-building, infrastructure development, and educational scholarships has further cemented its role as a global ally.
United Nations Peacekeeping Missions: India is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, playing a key role in maintaining peace and stability in conflict zones globally. This reflects its long-standing commitment to global peace as a responsible global partner.
2. India as Vishwa Guru (Global Teacher):
Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building: India’s role as a knowledge hub is evident through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, where it provides technical training and development assistance to over 160 countries. Through this, India shares expertise in areas like IT, governance, and sustainable development.
Digital Public Infrastructure: India’s Aadhaar-based digital infrastructure and its innovative use of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) have become models for many developing countries. The sharing of India’s digital governance practices through the Digital India initiative has made the country a global teacher in leveraging technology for public welfare.
Educational Diplomacy: Through initiatives like Study in India and expanding scholarships for international students, India has opened its doors to global learners, showcasing its rich intellectual and academic heritage.
3. India as Vishwa Vaidya (Global Physician):
COVID-19 Vaccine Diplomacy: India’s Vaccine Maitri (Vaccine Friendship) initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic saw India supplying vaccines to more than 95 countries. India’s Serum Institute of India (SII) became a leading global supplier of vaccines, underscoring its role as a global healthcare provider.
Affordable Pharmaceuticals: India is often referred to as the “pharmacy of the world” because of its capacity to produce affordable, high-quality generic drugs. It plays a crucial role in providing essential medicines to developing countries, including HIV/AIDS drugs to Africa.
Traditional Medicine and Ayurveda: India has increasingly promoted Ayurveda and traditional medicine on global platforms like the World Health Organization (WHO). The establishment of the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in India reflects the country’s leadership in integrating traditional knowledge with modern healthcare solutions.
4. India’s Multidimensional Global Role:
Climate Leadership: As part of the Paris Agreement, India has committed to ambitious climate goals, such as achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. Through its leadership in initiatives like the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), India has positioned itself as a global leader in sustainable infrastructure development.
G20 Presidency: India’s upcoming presidency of the G20 in 2023 reflects its growing influence in global economic governance. Under its leadership, India plans to focus on inclusive development, digital transformation, and sustainable recovery post-pandemic, further establishing its global leadership role.
Defense Collaborations: India’s role as a strategic partner has also expanded through defense cooperation agreements with major powers like the United States, France, and Russia. India’s participation in joint military exercises and defense technology transfers further solidifies its standing as a responsible and cooperative power.
India’s emergence as Vishwa Mitra, Vishwa Guru, and Vishwa Vaidya reflects its multifaceted contributions to global diplomacy, education, and healthcare. Through strategic partnerships, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and healthcare diplomacy, India continues to assert itself as a global leader dedicated to fostering cooperation, development, and human well-being across the world. This holistic engagement exemplifies India’s commitment to global peace, prosperity, and sustainability, reinforcing its status as a key player on the international stage.
