India’s maritime diplomacy, in line with the Prime Minister’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision, has seen significant advancements. Key projects include the establishment of a Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Sri Lanka and the re-launching of the ferry service between India and Sri Lanka. Additionally, India has contributed to regional maritime security by handing over the PS Zoroaster vessel to Seychelles after refitting it in India. Maritime Security Dialogues with Australia and Vietnam have further bolstered cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Renewable Energy and Health Cooperation:
In the renewable energy sector, India continues its leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) with the signing of the ISA Framework Agreement with Bolivia, Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica. This aligns with India’s global commitment to clean energy.
India’s health diplomacy has been strengthened through the signing of MoUs for cooperation at the Drug Regulator Level with Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador, and other nations. Additionally, MoUs with Nicaragua and Suriname on the recognition of the Indian Pharmacopeia signal India’s growing influence in global health standards.
Digital Payments and UPI Expansion:
India’s digital infrastructure is making global strides, with the signing of the INDIA STACK MoU with countries like Colombia, Cuba, and Trinidad & Tobago. The expansion of UPI and digital payments infrastructure reflects India’s technological expertise. Licensing agreements and NDAs with countries such as Peru and Nicaragua have further solidified India’s role in shaping digital payments in developing economies.
Development Partnership and Cultural Diplomacy:
India’s development partnership initiatives have gained momentum, with projects like the upgradation of the Deka Pumping Station in Zimbabwe and the supply of haemodialysis units to Pacific Island nations. The completion of a 20MW Hydroelectric Project in Burundi underscores India’s commitment to supporting infrastructure development in Africa.
Cultural diplomacy also saw notable achievements with the Prime Minister inaugurating the 46th World Heritage Committee Session in India, where India’s nomination of the Charaideo Moidam in Assam was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. The International Yoga Conference in Durban and the renewal of an MoU on Sanskrit and Indian Philosophy in Mauritius reflect India’s soft power and cultural ties.
Diaspora Engagement:
Engagement with the Indian diaspora remains a priority, with continued expansion of services like the e-passport pilot project in Bhubaneswar and Nagpur. The operationalisation of the e-Migrate mobile app, and the signing of a Labour Mobility Agreement with Malaysia, further highlight India’s commitment to its global citizens.
The MEA’s proactive diplomacy in the first 100 days of the government highlights India’s growing global footprint, strategic partnerships, and leadership on key global issues. Through intensified engagements, multilateral participation, and development cooperation, India is laying the groundwork for deeper collaborations in the coming years.
