Economic Might: The Foundation of India's Global Influence

Economist and former NITI Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar has highlighted the crucial role of economic strength in shaping a nation’s foreign policy. Speaking at Gandhinagar's Rashtriya Raksha University, he stressed that India's global standing hinges on its economic growth and larger share in international trade.

Pointing to China as a model, Kumar noted its rise as a global power due to economic advancements. He urged India to bolster its share in global merchandise trade, currently stagnating below 2% for decades, to achieve a significant voice on the world stage. His message was clear: economic weakness undermines global influence.

Kumar also advocated for India's strategic autonomy, emphasizing resilience seen during post-nuclear test sanctions. He called for empowerment of the private sector as a growth engine, while advising caution and strength in international relations, particularly with economic giants like China and the US.