Buddhism in India’s Foreign Policy Under PM Modi
Introduction
Cultural diplomacy has emerged as a key tool in India’s foreign policy, particularly under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Among various cultural and spiritual traditions, Buddhism has played a central role in shaping India’s diplomatic outreach, strengthening ties with countries that have deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Japan, Mongolia, and Vietnam.
Buddhism as a Pillar of India’s Soft Power
India, as the birthplace of Buddhism, has leveraged its Buddhist heritage to enhance global diplomatic relations. Under PM Modi’s leadership, this strategy has been actively pursued through:
- Revival of Buddhist Heritage – The government has focused on developing Buddhist circuits in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh to attract Buddhist pilgrims and boost tourism.
- International Buddhist Conferences – India has hosted several Buddhist summits, inviting leaders from Buddhist-majority countries to discuss cultural and spiritual ties.
- India’s Role in Global Buddhist Organizations – Institutions like the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) are being used as diplomatic platforms.
Key Diplomatic Initiatives Under PM Modi
- Buddhist Diplomacy with ASEAN Nations
- Strengthening India’s ties with Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia by emphasizing shared Buddhist heritage.
- Promoting India as a spiritual tourism destination for Southeast Asian nations.
- India’s Engagement with Mongolia
- PM Modi’s visit to Mongolia in 2015 was historic, and India gifted a sacred Buddha relic, strengthening the spiritual bond.
- Ties with Sri Lanka and Nepal
- India has supported the restoration of Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.
- India’s engagement with Nepal highlights Buddhist connections, especially Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.
- Buddhist Diplomacy with Japan
- PM Modi has emphasized the historical Buddhist link between India and Japan, fostering stronger economic and political ties.
Significance in Global Affairs
- Countering China’s Influence: India’s Buddhist diplomacy serves as a counter to China’s efforts to control global Buddhist institutions, such as its role in appointing the Dalai Lama’s successor.
- Boosting Tourism and Economy: The development of Buddhist circuits attracts international visitors, benefiting India’s economy.
- Strengthening Regional Cooperation: By highlighting common Buddhist traditions, India fosters stronger cultural and diplomatic partnerships.
Under PM Modi, Buddhism has become a strategic tool in India’s foreign policy, strengthening relations with Buddhist-majority nations
By BHARAT GLOBAL TIME
