Jai Hind College Hosts Global Dialogue on India’s Role in a Multipolar World

Delivering the keynote address, Lt. General Vinod Khandare (Retd.), former Principal Advisor, Ministry of Defence, called for revisiting classical strategic thinkers and India’s own civilizational wisdom to navigate contemporary geopolitical flux and shifting power dynamics.

A session on strategic autonomy featured Dr. Sreeram Chaulia of the Jindal School of International Studies, who described India’s foreign policy as “pragmatic multipolarity,” enabling robust ties with Russia, Japan, France and others even amid intensifying global rivalries.

From an industry lens, Mr. Kashish Parpiani of Reliance Industries Ltd. argued that the world economy is undergoing “re-globalisation,” with economic networks shifting rather than shrinking.

Regional security and India–China dynamics formed another major highlight. Mr. R.N. Bhaskar presented the Russia–India–China (RIC) triangle as a complementary strategic structure — India as a large market, China as a technology-and-capital provider, and Russia as a key resource partner.

Dr. Rajiv Ranjan contrasted China’s relational diplomatic approach, rooted in Qin Yaqing’s theory, with India’s mandala-inspired geopolitical tradition, suggesting India’s framework more effectively safeguards national interest. Scholars also underlined persistent tensions — border disputes, maritime competition and strategic mistrust — that continue to impede meaningful cooperation between India and China.

The day concluded with a vibrant cultural showcase featuring classical music and regional performances including Rajasthani folk, Garba, Lavani and South Indian dance traditions, celebrating India’s cultural diversity.

Honouring the occasion as Chief Guest, Mr. Bhushan Gagrani, IAS, Municipal Commissioner of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), praised the initiative, stating that “such platforms equip young scholars to understand fast-changing geopolitical and governance transitions.” He emphasised that multidisciplinary thinking is essential for navigating today’s unpredictable global landscape.

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