During an exclusive interview at News18’s Rising Bharat Summit 2024, India’s Minister of External Affairs, S Jaishankar, expressed the nation’s pride and highlighted the efficacy of 'Modi ki Guarantee'. He emphasised that this guarantee extends beyond India's borders, asserting, "When I discuss foreign policies abroad, I stress that Modi ki Guarantee is as effective internationally as it is domestically."
Jaishankar elaborated on the evolving aspirations of the Indian populace, noting, "As people's basic needs are met, their aspirations broaden." He reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding national interests, stating, "We remain steadfast in our commitment to defending our borders and combating terrorism, even amidst the challenges posed by COVID-19."
Illustrating the effectiveness of 'Modi ki Guarantee', Jaishankar cited Operation Ganga, where five ministers were deployed to swiftly address issues until the last citizen was safely repatriated. He referenced similar operations such as Operation Kaveri in Sudan and the government's proactive measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Regarding India's expatriate community in the Gulf region, Jaishankar highlighted the government's continuous efforts to ensure their well-being, noting positive responses from host countries. He also commended the successful organization of the G20 summit across 60 cities, fostering enhanced global connectivity.
Jaishankar underscored the positive response to India's foreign policy, citing increased international credibility, influence, and weight. Responding to criticism regarding Article 370, he questioned the opposition's stance, asking whether they preferred to ignore Pakistan's sponsorship of terrorism or engage with them despite it.
On the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), Jaishankar defended it as a means to rectify historical injustices, emphasizing the importance of fairness to those affected by partition. He reiterated the government's commitment to upholding justice and fairness in its policies.
Giving an example from the past, Jaishankar mentioned that even Nehru’s contemporaries had questioned his decisions.
The minister also spoke about India’s strained relations with Pakistan, attributing the tension to two main factors: India’s firm stance on terrorism and Pakistan’s reaction to the abrogation of Article 370.
Jaishankar stated, “Today our relations with Pakistan are at a very formal level, very minimal. This has occurred for two reasons - we have placed terrorism squarely at the centre of the relationship, and Pakistan has reacted strongly to the abrogation of Article 370.”
Jaishankar, when asked about his views on News18’s opinion poll, said, “To be honest, the opinion poll results don’t surprise me. There is a greater sense of pride in the nation. People know that electricity, healthcare, and roads will improve.”
The minister also highlighted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s growing influence in southern states, pointing to the large crowds at PM’s roadshows in Coimbatore and Palakkad as evidence. When asked about the BJP’s response to criticism from southern states, he said, “My sense is that political opinion in those states is changing…”
