Quest-The Journal of UGC-HRDC Nainital

‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ as articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, serves as a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy. This term, derived from ancient Vedic texts, emphasizes the concept of global unity among humanity. India’s diplomatic initiatives and its relationships with nation-states across the globe reflect this enriched and enlightened perspective on foreign policy. Historically, India has positioned itself as a benevolent nation, taking pride in its culture, civilization, heritage, and knowledge. This paper aims to elucidate the significance of the term Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and its relevance to India’s foreign policy framework. It undertakes a systematic exploration of the term’s origins and its adaptation to contemporary Indian worldview. The research employs qualitative methods, including content analysis and a review of official foreign policy doctrines, as well as press releases, to gain insights into the perspectives of the nation’s leaders and policymakers. In addition to these primary sources, the study incorporates an examination of various scholarly articles and texts that explore Indian philosophical traditions, thereby facilitating a comprehensive and objective analysis of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. This inquiry also engages with the philosophies of prominent Indian thinkers such as Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Swami Vivekananda, in order to distill the essence of the term and its alignment with India’s democratic values and way of life. Ultimately, this paper seeks to analyze the policies and prospects associated with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, exploring its potential to guide India towards the creation of a more peaceful and equitable global community.