What S Jaishankar said at IIT Madras on India, democracy and the West
On January 2, 2026, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a thought-provoking speech at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, emphasizing the significance of India’s civilizational continuity and its democratic choice. His remarks highlighted how these elements have not only shaped India but have also influenced global political thought and partnerships, particularly with the West.
India’s Civilizational Continuity
Jaishankar began his address by noting that India is one of the few ancient civilizations that have successfully transitioned into a major modern nation-state. He stated, “There are really very few ancient civilizations which have survived to become major modern nation states, and we are one of them.” This survival, according to Jaishankar, provides India with a unique perspective on its past, which is rare among nations.
The Impact of Democracy
One of the key points made by Jaishankar was the global significance of India’s choice to adopt a democratic political system following its independence. He argued that this decision had far-reaching consequences, transforming democracy into a universal political idea. He stated, “It was our decision to opt for a democratic political model, which actually made the very idea of democracy a universal political concept.”
Jaishankar posited that without India’s example, democratic models might have remained confined to specific regions, limiting their global reach. This assertion underscores the role of India as a pivotal player in the promotion of democratic values worldwide.
India’s Responsibility on the Global Stage
In his speech, Jaishankar emphasized the responsibility that India bears in articulating its own values, culture, and history on the world stage. He remarked, “It is our duty, our obligation to express our thoughts and our values, culture and history.” This statement reflects a broader call for nations to take ownership of their narratives and contribute to global discourse.
However, Jaishankar also acknowledged the importance of engaging with the West in a cooperative manner. He stated, “But it can be done in a congenial partnership kind of way because I think that partnership with the West is important.” This perspective highlights the necessity of collaboration between India and Western nations as a means of shaping the future of global politics.
Engagement with the West
Jaishankar’s remarks suggest that India’s relationship with Western countries is not merely transactional but rather a partnership that can lead to mutual growth and understanding. He believes that by fostering these relationships, India can play a crucial role in shaping global norms and standards.
In this context, he pointed out that India’s historical and cultural insights can provide valuable contributions to the global community. The minister’s vision reflects a desire for India to be seen as a leader in promoting democratic values and civilizational dialogue.
Conclusion
In summary, S. Jaishankar’s address at IIT Madras served as a reminder of India’s unique position in the world as a nation that has successfully blended its ancient heritage with modern democratic ideals. His emphasis on the importance of articulating India’s values while engaging with the West underscores the potential for India to influence global political thought positively.
As the world continues to grapple with various challenges, the insights shared by Jaishankar may serve as a guiding framework for India’s future interactions on the international stage.
Note: The views expressed in this article are based on the speech delivered by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at IIT Madras and reflect his perspectives on India’s role in global politics.
