The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World by S. Jaishankar

Understand India’s Global Strategy with The India Way by S. Jaishankar

About the Book

The India Way examines how India is charting its own course in global affairs—balancing relationships with major powers, navigating regional tensions, and asserting its voice on the world stage. Dr. S. Jaishankar draws on decades of diplomatic experience to explain India’s strategic thinking on everything from border disputes and trade partnerships to climate policy and technology cooperation. This isn’t just about India—it’s about understanding how middle powers are redefining international relations in an era of multipolarity and uncertainty.

From the Back Cover

“In a world where old alliances are fraying and new powers are rising, India’s approach to foreign policy offers valuable lessons. This is the story of how one nation is navigating complexity with confidence and pragmatism.”

About the Author

Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is India’s Minister of External Affairs and one of the country’s most respected diplomats. With over four decades of experience serving as India’s Ambassador to the United States, China, and Singapore, and as Foreign Secretary, he has been at the center of India’s most critical diplomatic negotiations. His deep understanding of global power dynamics and first-hand experience in shaping India’s foreign policy makes him uniquely qualified to articulate India’s strategic vision.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is essential for students of international relations, policy professionals, business leaders working with India, and anyone seeking to understand the shifting balance of global power. If you’re curious about how India views its relationships with the United States, China, Pakistan, and other nations, or want to grasp the thinking behind India’s non-aligned approach in a polarized world, this book provides clarity. It’s also valuable for Indian readers wanting to understand their country’s global positioning and aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the main message of The India Way book?
The central message is that India is pursuing strategic autonomy—building partnerships based on national interest rather than rigid alliances, and navigating global politics with confidence rooted in its cultural values and democratic principles.

Q: Is The India Way suitable for readers without a political science background?
Yes. While the book covers complex geopolitical topics, Jaishankar writes in an accessible style with real-world examples and anecdotes from his diplomatic career that make concepts easy to understand for general readers.

Q: What topics does S. Jaishankar cover in The India Way?
The book covers India-China relations, India-US partnership, neighborhood diplomacy, economic globalization, technology and connectivity, climate change, cultural diplomacy, and how India’s historical experiences shape its modern foreign policy approach.

Q: Why should I read The India Way by S. Jaishankar?
If you want to understand one of the 21st century’s most important geopolitical stories—India’s rise—this book gives you insights from someone actively shaping that trajectory. It’s essential reading for grasping how emerging powers view the changing world order.

Q: How does The India Way explain India’s relationship with China and Pakistan?
Jaishankar provides frank assessments of border tensions with China and the complex history with Pakistan, explaining India’s security concerns while outlining how India manages these challenging relationships through diplomacy, defense preparedness, and building alternative partnerships.