Hindu Editorial Analysis : 21-February-2024

India’s role on the global stage has been growing significantly, especially in the 21st century. Three major events highlight this expansion of India’s diplomatic influence.

Major Events in Indian Diplomacy

1. The Raisina Dialogue

The Raisina Dialogue is an annual conference hosted by the Observer Research Foundation and the Ministry of External Affairs. This event brings together:

  • Ministers
  • Officials
  • Scholars
  • Policy researchers

These participants come from all over the world to discuss global issues with an India-centered perspective. The Raisina Dialogue has become a “must-go” event for those interested in India’s strategic role in international affairs.

2. The Milan Exercise

The Milan Exercise is a biennial multilateral naval exercise held in the Bay of Bengal. This event attracts naval leaders from various countries to engage in:

  • Professional exchanges on maritime issues
  • Discussions on naval diplomacy

The Milan exercise is rooted in a long history of naval diplomacy. Navies have served as flexible tools for countries to project power and engage in diplomacy. The Indian Navy’s participation in the Milan and Malabar exercises showcases India’s growing strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region.

3. Gathering of Top Intelligence Officials

“Intelligence diplomacy” involves sharing information among allied governments and security agencies. For instance, the US has established a close-knit intelligence network with its Anglo-Saxon allies, including:

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • New Zealand
  • United Kingdom

Similar networks exist among NATO and EU countries. For India, intelligence diplomacy is becoming as important as the discussions at the Raisina Dialogue and the naval cooperation seen in the Milan exercises.

Importance and Need for Diplomatic Engagement

As international interactions have expanded rapidly, the global community has shown increasing interest in various fields such as:

  • Commercial affairs
  • Political issues
  • Technological advancements
  • Military strategies

This has led to the rise of think tanks and media outlets focused on foreign and security matters. Current global challenges—like military crises, economic instability, and great power rivalry—have heightened the importance of forums that allow national security professionals to exchange insights.

Intelligence agencies play a crucial role in the national security framework, working alongside diplomacy and military forces. Intelligence has been a key part of statecraft for centuries, serving as the first line of defense against both internal and external threats. Recent developments, such as:

  • The rise of international terrorism
  • Cross-border criminal networks
  • Economic competition
  • The need for intellectual property protection

These factors have increased the significance of intelligence in maintaining national security. As new technologies reshape global dynamics, India’s diplomatic efforts and intelligence cooperation will be essential for navigating the complexities of an interconnected world.

Why In News

Three major events drew attention to the expanding Indian diplomatic footprint, signaling India’s growing influence in global affairs. These events not only showcase India’s strategic capabilities but also highlight its commitment to fostering international cooperation and dialogue on pressing global issues.

MCQs about Expanding Indian Diplomatic Footprint

  1. What is the purpose of the Raisina Dialogue?
    A. To conduct naval exercises
    B. To facilitate intelligence sharing
    C. To promote an India-centered global agenda
    D. To establish military alliances
    Correct Answer: C. To promote an India-centered global agenda
    Explanation: The Raisina Dialogue is an annual conference aimed at bringing together global leaders to discuss international issues with a focus on India’s role and perspective.
  2. What does the Milan Exercise primarily focus on?
    A. Economic cooperation
    B. Maritime issues
    C. Cultural exchanges
    D. Space exploration
    Correct Answer: B. Maritime issues
    Explanation: The Milan Exercise is a biennial naval exercise that gathers naval leaders from various countries to engage in discussions and professional exchanges regarding maritime issues.
  3. Which countries are part of the US’s close-knit intelligence-sharing network?
    A. India and Japan
    B. Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom
    C. Brazil and Argentina
    D. Germany and France
    Correct Answer: B. Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom
    Explanation: The US has a tight circle of intelligence-sharing with its Anglo-Saxon allies, which includes these four countries, similar to the “Five Eyes” arrangement.
  4. What has increased the importance of intelligence in national security?
    A. The rise of international sports events
    B. The emergence of new technologies and international terrorism
    C. Cultural exchanges among nations
    D. The decline of traditional military forces
    Correct Answer: B. The emergence of new technologies and international terrorism
    Explanation: Recent challenges, such as the rise of international terrorism and advancements in technology, have significantly heightened the role of intelligence in maintaining national security.

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