INDIA’S SOFT POWER DIPLOMACY POST-2014: STRATEGIES, CHALLENGES, AND GLOBAL IMPACT

Abstract

This research paper offers a comprehensive examination of India's soft power diplomacy since 2014, focusing on its strategies, challenges, and global impact. In the context of escalating geopolitical rivalries and shifting international alliances, India has effectively leveraged its cultural heritage, democratic values, and technological progress to bolster its position on the global stage. The study underscores the pivotal role of cultural elements like yoga, Bollywood, and Buddhism in shaping India's foreign policy under the Modi government. Furthermore, it explores the influence of India's vast diaspora and economic partnerships in expanding its global footprint and strengthening its diplomatic presence.

The paper assesses the influence and efficiency of India's soft power strategies and highlights the structural and operational challenges that hinder their implementation. It analyzes major initiatives, such as the International Day of Yoga, digital diplomacy campaigns, and regional collaborations like the Act East Policy, demonstrating India's aspirations to position itself as both a cultural and economic leader. Furthermore, the paper explores obstacles including regional conflicts, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and competitive pressures posed by emerging global players, notably China's Belt and Road Initiative.

The findings emphasize India's ability to merge cultural symbolism with pragmatic diplomacy, enhancing its credibility on global platforms like the United Nations and BRICS. Nevertheless, the study highlights the need for institutional reforms and better policy coordination to maintain long-term influence. Contributing to the broader discourse on soft power diplomacy, the paper illustrates how India combines its rich cultural heritage with contemporary strategies to assert global leadership.