External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered an insightful address at the Aravalli Summit held at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on October 6, 2025, marking the 70th anniversary of the School of International Studies (SIS). Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Jaishankar described India’s rise as an exceptional journey unfolding in a turbulent global era, and emphasised how the country’s growing influence reflects both domestic strength and strategic clarity. The two-day international conference, themed “India and the World Order: Preparing for 2047,” was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Chintan Research Foundation.
I am writing about this because Dr. Jaishankar’s remarks not only reflect India’s foreign policy direction but also offer a deeper perspective on how education and policy research institutions like JNU are engaging with India’s role in a changing world. The timing of this summit—when the world faces shifting power balances, climate challenges, and technology disruptions—makes it an important moment to understand how India is positioning itself globally. It’s also encouraging to see universities being recognised as spaces that shape foreign policy dialogue and prepare the next generation for India’s leadership role by 2047.
Aravalli Summit: A platform for global dialogue
The Aravalli Summit, hosted by JNU’s School of International Studies, brought together academics, diplomats, and policy experts from India and abroad to discuss India’s strategic goals in the coming decades. The event marks seven decades of the SIS, one of India’s oldest and most respected centres for international relations research.
The theme “India and the World Order: Preparing for 2047” focuses on India’s evolving position in global governance, economic diplomacy, and security frameworks as it approaches the centenary of independence. The summit is not just about celebrating past achievements but also about charting a vision for the future—how India can shape a fairer, multipolar world order.
Jaishankar on India’s exceptional journey
In his address, EAM Jaishankar described India’s growth story as “exceptional not just in scale but in spirit.” He noted that while the global landscape remains uncertain—with conflicts, economic disruptions, and new power rivalries—India’s steady rise demonstrates resilience and strategic balance.
Dr. Jaishankar explained that India’s global engagement today is built on three pillars:
- Domestic transformation, including strong infrastructure, digital inclusion, and skill development.
- Strategic autonomy in foreign policy, ensuring India’s decisions serve national interest rather than alignment with global blocs.
- Commitment to global good, as seen in India’s leadership in climate action, humanitarian aid, and South-South cooperation.
He remarked, “India’s rise is not an accident of circumstance but a reflection of will, vision, and consistent effort. We are living through an era of disruption, yet India is emerging as a force of stability and innovation.”
Preparing for 2047: India’s global vision
The discussions at the summit centred on India’s roadmap for 2047, the year marking 100 years of independence. Policymakers and scholars deliberated on key themes such as:
- Strategic autonomy and multipolarity in global affairs.
- Economic diplomacy and India’s integration into global supply chains.
- Technological leadership through AI, cybersecurity, and space research.
- Regional cooperation in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
- Education and innovation as drivers of India’s soft power.
Speakers at the event emphasised that India’s growing influence in forums like G20, BRICS, and Quad shows how the nation has transitioned from being a “rule-taker” to a “rule-shaper” in the international order.
Collaboration between academia and policy
One of the highlights of the summit was the collaboration between JNU’s academic community and the Ministry of External Affairs. Dr. Jaishankar underlined the importance of institutions like JNU in shaping India’s strategic thinking.
He said, “India’s foreign policy today is not crafted in isolation. It draws upon academic expertise, technological innovation, and public participation. Institutions like the School of International Studies are central to nurturing analytical talent and promoting India’s thought leadership.”
The event also showcased how academic research and policy formulation can complement each other—especially in fields like geopolitics, trade, and security studies. Faculty members and research scholars presented papers on India’s global partnerships, digital diplomacy, and the future of global governance.
Global experts and discussions
The Aravalli Summit attracted participation from leading Indian and international scholars, including representatives from think tanks, embassies, and research institutions. Sessions were held on topics like:
- India’s Role in a Fragmented World
- Technology and Power in the 21st Century
- The Indo-Pacific and Maritime Security
- Climate Diplomacy and Sustainable Development
Several panelists pointed out that India’s diplomatic approach, combining “strategic realism with moral responsibility,” has helped it maintain credibility with diverse global partners. Experts agreed that by 2047, India could be one of the top three global powers if it continues to invest in education, innovation, and institutional reform.
Celebrating 70 years of the School of International Studies
The School of International Studies (SIS) at JNU, established in 1955, has played a central role in India’s study of diplomacy, international law, and global politics. Over the years, it has produced some of India’s leading diplomats, academics, and policymakers—including Dr. S. Jaishankar himself, who is an alumnus of JNU.
The 70th-anniversary celebration served as a reminder of SIS’s contribution to India’s intellectual and diplomatic heritage. The event included special lectures, alumni interactions, and exhibitions highlighting seven decades of academic excellence.
India’s diplomatic maturity in a changing world
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Jaishankar reflected on how India’s foreign policy has matured to meet the demands of an unpredictable world. He said that India’s ability to engage simultaneously with multiple power centres—whether the US, Russia, Europe, or Asia—demonstrates its strategic confidence and independent worldview.
He added that India’s leadership in global initiatives such as Vaccine Maitri, International Solar Alliance, and Digital Public Infrastructure reflects its intent to contribute to global welfare while advancing national interests.
“India’s rise is not just about economic metrics or geopolitical influence—it’s about setting an example of balanced growth, cultural confidence, and responsible global leadership,” he concluded.
