The Jaishankar Doctrine: India's Pragmatic Approach to Global Diplomacy

The Jaishankar Doctrine represents a transformative shift in Indian foreign policy, emphasizing pragmatic realism, strategic autonomy, and interest-based multi-alignment in an increasingly fragmented global order. Developed under the leadership of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, the doctrine departs from traditional frameworks like Nehruvian idealism and non-alignment, opting instead for a proactive, issue-based diplomacy that seeks to position India as a leading power. This article critically analyzes the foundational principles of the Jaishankar Doctrine, its divergence from earlier policy models, and its influence on India’s bilateral and multilateral engagements. It also explores how the doctrine navigates the balance between national sovereignty and global interdependence, while assessing its broader implications and limitations for India’s leadership ambitions amid ongoing geopolitical disruptions. The study concludes that while the doctrine enhances India's global relevance, its long-term success depends on bridging structural gaps and sustaining credible leadership through both values and performance.