Amit Shah: PM Modi Gave India's Foreign Policy a 'Spine,' Ushering in an Era of Assertive Global Leadership

In a resounding declaration that echoed through the political landscape, Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fundamentally transformed India’s foreign policy, imbuing it with an unprecedented ‘spine’. Speaking at a book launch, Shah's remarks painted a vivid picture of a nation that has shed its inhibitions and now confidently champions its own interests on the global stage, a stark contrast to what he implied was a past era of deference and hesitancy.

Shah sharply critiqued previous diplomatic approaches, albeit without naming Jawaharlal Nehru directly, suggesting that India’s strategies were once constrained by a perceived need to consider how other nations might react.

This, he argued, led to a foreign policy that often lacked the conviction necessary to assert India's true potential. Under PM Modi's leadership, Shah proclaimed, this era of caution has decisively ended. The mantra is now unequivocally "India first," a philosophy that has redefined the nation's engagement with the world.

Citing a series of pivotal moments, Shah underscored the tangible manifestations of this newfound assertiveness.

He recalled the swift and decisive surgical strikes and the Balakot airstrikes, actions that demonstrated India’s unwavering resolve in responding to cross-border terrorism. The resolute handling of the Doklam standoff, a testament to India's territorial integrity and strategic patience, was also highlighted.

Furthermore, Shah pointed to India's nuanced yet firm stance during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where New Delhi prioritized its national interests and sovereign decision-making over external pressures, refusing to be swayed by global alignments.

The Home Minister emphasized that India's voice now commands respect and attention globally.

"When India speaks, the world listens," he affirmed, illustrating a significant shift in diplomatic gravitas. He also touched upon the abrogation of Article 370, boldly stating that such internal matters are India's prerogative alone and not subject to international debate or interference, thereby cementing a robust defense of national sovereignty.

Looking ahead, Shah expressed profound confidence in how history would ultimately judge this transformative period.

He asserted that in 50 years, historians will undoubtedly view the Modi era's foreign policy as a golden chapter, recognizing its courage, clarity, and unwavering commitment to national interest. This favorable historical verdict, he believes, will acknowledge the profound impact of a leader who dared to reshape India’s international identity.

Beyond foreign policy, Shah briefly touched upon the broader achievements contributing to India's strengthened position, including robust national security, an accelerating economy that has propelled India to become the world's fifth-largest, and significant strides in internal security.

These interconnected successes, he concluded, collectively underpin a more confident, self-reliant, and globally influential India.