‘Everything today is being leveraged, if not weaponised’: Jaishankar warns of shifting world order
On April 4, 2026, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, delivered a compelling address to the graduating class of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur during its 15th Annual Convocation. His speech highlighted the significant changes in the global order and the implications of these changes for future leaders.
Context of the Address
Jaishankar’s remarks came at a time of considerable global upheaval, characterized by various crises that have reshaped international relations and economic stability. He pointed to three primary factors driving this “structural turbulence”:
- The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, which has had lasting effects on economies and societies worldwide.
- Prolonged conflicts in regions such as West Asia and Ukraine, contributing to geopolitical instability.
- Accelerating climate change, which poses existential threats and challenges to global cooperation.
Technological Advancements and Global Competition
In his speech, Jaishankar emphasized that rapid advancements in technology, energy, and connectivity have transformed once-neutral tools into instruments of global competition. He stated, “Everything today is being leveraged, if not actually weaponised.” This assertion underscores the growing trend of nations utilizing technology and resources not just for development, but as strategic assets in international relations.
As countries navigate this new landscape, they are increasingly focusing on “de-risking” and “diversification” strategies. These approaches aim to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance resilience against external shocks, particularly in supply chains and economic dependencies.
Optimism for India’s Youth
Despite the challenges posed by the shifting global order, Jaishankar expressed optimism about the capabilities of India’s youth. He highlighted the resilience and “can-do” spirit of the younger generation, which he believes will be instrumental in shaping a prosperous future for the nation. He remarked that this foundation is essential for realizing the vision of a “Viksit Bharat,” or Developed India.
Jaishankar encouraged the new managers and leaders to embrace the fusion of technology and tradition. He believes that this combination will be crucial in building robust national capabilities that can withstand the pressures of a rapidly changing world.
Key Takeaways from Jaishankar’s Address
Jaishankar’s address can be summarized with several key takeaways that resonate with the current global climate:
- Global Turbulence: The world is experiencing significant structural changes due to various crises, necessitating a reevaluation of international strategies.
- Weaponization of Tools: Nations are increasingly leveraging technology and resources as competitive advantages, which can escalate tensions.
- Youth Empowerment: The resilience and innovative spirit of India’s youth are vital for navigating future challenges and achieving national goals.
- Fusion of Tradition and Technology: Embracing both modern advancements and traditional values will strengthen India’s position on the global stage.
Conclusion
Jaishankar’s insights serve as a clarion call for future leaders to be vigilant and proactive in addressing the complexities of the modern world. As they step into their roles, it is imperative that they harness their skills and knowledge to contribute to a stable, prosperous, and resilient India.
Note: The content of this article is based on the speech delivered by S. Jaishankar at IIM Raipur and reflects the current geopolitical and economic landscape as understood in April 2026.
