Abstract
This paper highlights the role of soft
power diplomacy in the enduring India-Bhutan relationship. It emphasises
cultural affinities, historical connections, and shared values that have
fostered deep bonds. The article underscores the influence of yoga as a
cultural bridge and environmental conservation as a mutual goal. It showcases
the power of soft power diplomacy in shaping a resilient partnership,
transcending political boundaries, and nurturing enduring connections built on
common understanding and friendship.
Introduction
In the complex
landscape of international relations, soft power diplomacy has emerged as a potent tool
for nations to strengthen bonds, foster goodwill, and exert influence without
coercion. Within the pages of the Arthashastra by the venerable
Kautilya, there exists discourse about the Six Stratagems, known as Shadgunyas
(excellences), alongside the four Upayas (approaches), which can be
understood as strategic tools. These comprise Saam (conciliation),
Daan (charity), Bhed (divide), and Dand (punishment).1 Among these, the initial two options are
inclined toward peaceful methodologies and incentives. Joseph Nye coined ‘Soft
Power’ in ‘Bound to Lead: The Changing Nature of American Power’, noting three
dimensions: military might, economic persuasion, and cultural assimilation.
Military strength is typically seen as strong but not favourable in Soft Power.2 However, its use in peacekeeping and disaster
relief is valued. Promoting culture is generally positive, yet imposing it
forcefully on smaller neighbours can be seen as imperialism. The key is how
tools are used.
Soft power aims to engage and influence
individuals’ sentiments and thoughts. A people-centred approach is essential,
as governments have constraints and typically facilitate rather than lead.3 Two instances from the last
century exemplify this. India gained global popularity twice: during the independence struggle with Gandhi’s nonviolent approach and in the 1960s
Hippie movement which was drawn to yoga and Indian spirituality. The role of
the Government was minor, even opposed to the popular movements. In both
instances soft power prevailed despite government limitations.
On 12 Dec 2022, the Parliamentary
Committee on External Affairs led by Mr. PP Chaudhary, released findings in a
report titled ‘India’s Soft Power Prospects and Limitations’. Ministry of External
Affairs (MEA) defines soft power as non-coercive influence through appeal. It
has pinpointed four issues hampering India’s soft power: limited funding,
institutional coordination gaps, skilled workforce scarcity, and the Indian
Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) ambiguous role. The Committee’s report
comprises noteworthy insights and suggestions, among which are the following
key observations and recommendations4:
n Cultural Diplomacy Working Group.
The committee observed the dual involvement of the MEA and the Ministry of
Culture in promoting India’s cultural diplomacy. The Ministry of Culture
develops policies and projects for cultural propagation, while the ICCR
operates as the external executing body for conserving cultural heritage
globally. The committee proposed establishing a working group between the MEA
and the Ministry of Culture to synchronise and strategise cultural diplomatic
efforts. Additionally, it suggested forming a comprehensive database of
cultural resources.
n Yoga Certification Board. The
committee acknowledged yoga’s worldwide appeal and its potential as a soft
power asset. It advised cooperation between the Ministry of Ayush and the MEA to establish a Yoga
Certification Board. This board would authenticate Indian yogic practices and
therapies.
n Engaging Indian Diaspora. India
possesses a substantial diaspora, exceeding 31 mn individuals, including 13 mn
NRIs and 18 mn persons of indian origin. The committee recognised the diaspora’s role as a
soft power asset in enhancing ties between their country of origin and host
nations. The suggestion entails creating a mechanism for proactive interaction
with the diaspora through Indian missions/posts abroad. Additionally, targeted
events should be organised to gather their insights and ideas for more
effective ongoing engagement with the host country.
n Boosting Tourism. The committee
recognised tourism as a vital gauge of a nation’s soft power influence. It
stressed expanding overseas tourism offices and adopting tailored approaches
for promoting tourism. The recommendation involves gathering input from diverse
types of tourists to formulate comprehensive, country-specific strategies.
India and Bhutan have nurtured a unique
and profound connection since the 1950s. The outreach made by the former Indian
Prime Minister(PM), Jawaharlal Nehru, to Bhutan during that period stands as a
demonstration of soft power; a concerted effort to fortify the bond linking
these two nations. India’s utilisation of soft power in its dealings with
Bhutan is evident across a spectrum of foreign policy areas, spanning from
economic collaboration to cultural engagements.5 An illustrative instance pertaining to India’s
provision of financial aid to support Bhutan’s five-year development plans.
Additionally, a consistent thread of cultural exchange programs unites both
countries, underscoring the depth of their interconnectedness.
The soft power diplomacy approach’s
outcome has been the cultivation of goodwill, thereby reducing the potential
for misinterpretations. Conversely, it can be argued that isolating soft power
as a distinct policy instrument is counterproductive. Instead, it serves as the
foundational element that underpins a nation’s comprehensive policy architecture.
This article explores the multifaceted role of soft power diplomacy in shaping
the India-Bhutan relationship.
Historical
Ties and Cultural Affinities
India
and Bhutan share deep-rooted historical ties that have served as the foundation
for a resilient diplomatic partnership. Their proximity, cultural similarities,
and shared values have forged a unique bond that transcends political
boundaries. The role of cultural diplomacy, encompassing elements such as
shared traditions, religious practices, and cultural exchanges, has been
instrumental in cultivating people-to-people connections and mutual
understanding.6
PM Shri Narendra Modi picked Bhutan as
his first foreign destination as India’s leader, stating that the country’s
foreign policy interests lie in the region. According to PM Modi, it was a
‘logical option’ because of India-‘unique’ Bhutan’s connection. Ever since the
8th century, when the renowned Indian saint, Swami
Padmasambhava, recognised as the ‘Second Buddha’ or ‘Rinpoche’, introduced
Buddhism to Bhutan, the influence of this religion has profoundly shaped every
aspect of Bhutanese life, fostering enduring ties between the two nations.
Since the 1950s, India and Bhutan have
maintained a particular relationship. Their official ties were established in
1968, though the essential foundation of bilateral relations was laid out in
the ‘Treaty of Perpetual Peace and Friendship’ signed in 1949.7 The soft power diplomacy from India has helped
to build strong commercial and cultural relations with Bhutan since then.
Throughout Bhutan’s five-year plans and investments in hydroelectric projects,
India has been Bhutan’s major development partner. The former having supported
the country’s seamless transition to democracy. A mutually beneficial collaboration
between the Indian and Bhutanese governments has resulted in both countries
greatly benefiting from Bhutan’s hydroelectric capabilities.8
Bhutan’s
Unique Cultural Identity
There
exist multiple avenues by which India can enhance its comprehensive approach to
exerting soft power influence on Bhutan. Initially, fostering cultural
cooperation between the two nations should evolve into a more formalised and
structured endeavour, concentrating especially on regions adjacent to the
borders rather than the capitals. Secondly, Bhutan’s distinct cultural identity
has been diligently conserved, evident in its policy landscape. Bhutan’s
distinct cultural identity, highlighted by its concept of Gross National
Happiness (GNH), has captured international attention. This emphasis on
holistic well-being, social harmony, and sustainable development aligns closely
with the principles of soft power diplomacy. The exceptional notion of GNH
exemplifies this uniqueness, and India should create platforms for the exchange
of knowledge. India has acknowledged and appreciated Bhutan’s cultural
uniqueness, thereby fostering a sense of respect and mutual admiration that
forms the bedrock of their diplomatic ties. Through these platforms, India can
glean insights from this indigenous concept, which presents a balanced
trajectory between materialistic and spiritual aspirations.9
Education
and Capacity Building
Indian
and Bhutanese connections have always been based on the importance of education
and learning. India’s role in supporting Bhutan’s education system through
scholarships, exchange programs, and technical assistance has been a
significant soft power instrument. 4,000 Bhutanese students are now enrolled in
Indian colleges, making India the most preferred destination for Bhutanese
students. Four Memorandums of Understanding on academic exchanges and science,
technology engineering, and mathematics collaboration between Bhutan and India
have been signed by the two governments to help young people in the Himalayan
nation find jobs based on their education and skills. Students from Bhutan can
now apply for special permission from the Indian government to study at
prestigious universities like St. Stephens College, University of Delhi, and
AIIMS after being nominated and recommended by the MEA and the Royal Government
of Bhutan. Additionally, in Jan 2020, the two nations inked an agreement to
prolong the Nehru-Wangchuck scholarship
programme for an additional five
years. The Indian government invites Buddhist students from Bhutan to India’s
famed Nalanda University, thus, extending the priceless spiritual tradition and
ties that bind the two nations.
Also, the government schools in Delhi
have introduced an educational program termed the ‘Happiness Curriculum’.
Although the inception of this idea is attributed to the efforts of the Delhi
Government, it is widely acknowledged that the concept draws inspiration from
Bhutan. In Feb 2018, Manish Sisodia, Deputy Chief Minister, and Education
Minister of Delhi, acknowledged the influence from Bhutan, saying, “As Bhutan
is devising policies to elevate the Happiness Index among its populace, we, by
crafting an interactive Happiness Curriculum for our school children, can not
only enhance their individual development but also impact the trajectory of our
society and nation”.10 These innovative policy notions should be
expanded and consciously promoted on a larger scale. By empowering Bhutanese
youth with education and skills, India has not only contributed to Bhutan’s
development but has also strengthened people-to-people links that extend beyond
national borders.
Buddhism,
Yoga and Shared Values
The
enduring influence of Buddhism and the propagation of yoga serve as pillars of
soft power diplomacy between India and Bhutan. To develop and strengthen
international relations, India’s foreign policy under PM Modi has placed a
greater emphasis on promoting India’s ‘soft power’. The government’s adoption
of the notion of ‘Panchamrit’ (five nectares), which includes five
themes: ‘dignity’, ‘dialogue’, ‘shared prosperity’,
‘regional and global security’, and ‘cultural
and civilisational ties’, has opened new pillars in
India’s foreign policy architecture.
Political and cultural ideals and
traditions of the Himalayan state of Bhutan have shaped India’s relationship
with Bhutan. Two formal trips to Bhutan by Indian PM Shri Narendra Modi
underlined the long history of cultural and spiritual links between India and
Bhutan, as well as the need of expanding people-to-people contact between the
two countries’ populations. The Indian state’s ties to Bhutan have been
bolstered by India’s prominence in Buddhist thinking. “Without Buddha, this century
cannot be Asia’s century”, said Indian PM Shri Narendra Modi in one of his
statements at the United Nations General Assembly in New York city in Sep 2014.
“The common spiritual legacy here
between two states is an unchangeable constant in their long age-relationship
and complements India for their greatest gift of Buddhism to its people”, says
Bhutan. As a result of the two nations’ strong ties in terms of culture and
religion, there have been numerous cultural exchanges, including the annual
celebration of Bhutan Week in India, pilgrimages to Buddhist holy places in
both countries and the holding of Buddhist conferences.11
Also, the common Buddhist background of
the two countries has enabled them both to connect better and develop their
humanitarian ties. Indian PM Narendra Modi expands the pursuits of Indian
connections with the Himalayan country based on the ideals of integration and
unity derived from the ancient cultural and civilisational concept of ‘Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakam’ (The World is One Family) India’s commitment in providing
ongoing technical help and critical medical supplies to Bhutan during the
current COVID-19 outbreak exemplifies the notion in practical reality.
The ancient practice of yoga is another
important cultural link between India and Bhutan. Yoga, an ancient practice
rooted in Indian culture, has emerged as a significant cultural link between
India and Bhutan, strengthening the enduring bonds of their diplomatic
relationship. This connection showcases the power of soft power diplomacy,
fostering mutual understanding and friendship. Yoga’s global popularity has
resonated strongly with Bhutan, leading to collaborative efforts to
promote physical and mental well-being.
Many Bhutanese people are practicing yoga, an ancient Indian form of mental,
physical, and spiritual discipline. When it comes to dealing with the pain,
sorrow, and strains of modern life, they turn to yoga, which emphasises the
concept of GNH as a yardstick by which to gauge their country’s well-being. The
Bhutanese have embraced this technique because it promotes physical and mental
connection.
Furthermore, the foundation of
India-Bhutan relations is firmly grounded in robust interpersonal connections.
India holds allure for Bhutanese pilgrims, and the provisioning of facilities
and licenses to tour operators merits careful consideration. Collaborative
efforts between both nations can be orchestrated to streamline these processes
effectively. Additionally, the spiritual connection between the two nations
through Buddhism fosters a shared sense of values and ethics that contribute to
their diplomatic synergy. It is essential to factor in the real-life encounters
and perspectives of the people, as these can yield fresh insights for informing
and shaping the diplomatic ethos of South Asian nations.
Infrastructure
Development and Connectivity
India’s
role in supporting Bhutan’s infrastructure development, including hydropower
projects and road connectivity, has not only enhanced Bhutan’s economic growth
but has also underscored India’s commitment to Bhutan’s progress. Cooperation
between India and Bhutan in the hydropower industry is an excellent example of
cooperation that benefits both countries.12 Clean electricity is provided to India, while
Bhutan earns export revenue. Several power agreements have been signed between
the nations. The Jaldhaka agreement,
signed in 1961, marked the beginning of Indo-Bhutan hydropower cooperation. In
1987, the Chukha Hydropower Project (CHP) with a capacity of 336 Mega Watt (MW)
was officially inaugurated, marking a watershed moment in Indo-Bhutan relations
CHP.13 In the wake of CHP’s overwhelming
success and economic advantages, more projects were given the go-ahead. One of
the largest collaborative projects between India and Bhutan, the 1,020 MW Tala
Hydroelectric Project was also funded by the Government of India. Under the
Framework Inter-Governmental Agreement, which the two nations signed in Apr
2014, public sector undertakings in both countries would build joint venture
hydropower projects. Kholongchu, Bunakha, Wangchuk and Chamkhar are all
included in this Inter-Governmental Agreement, which serves as a framework for
developing the four hydroelectric power plants totalling 2120 MW on a joint
venture-model between Public Sector Undertakings of the two nations. These four
projects might get off the ground more quickly thanks to the Inter-Governmental
Agreement, in addition to improving bilateral hydropower collaboration.14
Environmental
Conservation
The
mutual commitment of India and Bhutan to environmental conservation and
sustainable practices further strengthens their diplomatic ties. Collaborative
initiatives in preserving the Himalayan ecosystem and addressing climate change
demonstrate shared values and a common goal, reinforcing the narrative of
cooperation and mutual benefit. This connection underscores the potency of soft
power diplomacy in fostering mutual respect and collaboration.
Both nations prioritise sustainable
development and environmental preservation, echoing common values. Bhutan’s
commitment to maintaining carbon neutrality aligns with India’s efforts to
combat climate change. Such shared environmental objectives have facilitated a
natural bridge for diplomatic cooperation. Collaborative initiatives, like
joint conservation projects and knowledge exchange, demonstrate the tangible
impact of their soft power approach. This environmentally conscious partnership
showcases how cultural and value-based ties can transcend political boundaries,
fostering goodwill and friendship.
Exploring
New Areas of Collaboration in India-Bhutan Relations
Bharat
to Bhutan is a vision of shared prosperity that is anchored on the Indian
state’s belief that a partnership between the two countries can only succeed if
it is based on people-to-people cooperation. Indian government’s decision to
strengthen ties with Bhutan’s youth was motivated by the desire to meet the
aspirational needs of Bhutan’s youth, bridge the information gap to build trust
and mutual understanding and facilitate collaboration to find innovative
solutions to challenging problems that have a direct impact on the lives of
young minds.
The Indian government emphasised the
importance of capacity-building and decided to expand and diversify the
collaboration between India and Bhutan to include new fields such as education,
space research, information technology, digital payments, disaster management,
and others in order to maintain the long-term relationship between the two
countries. Building strong ties and an information highway among people,
India’s government emphasised the need to establish collaboration between
India’s National Knowledge Network and Druk Research and Education Network.
In addition, India encouraged the
Bhutanese youth to keep pace with technical advancement by extending its
cooperation in the fields of space, digital, and new technology. PM Narendra
Modi inaugurated the Thimphu Ground Station erected by the Indian Space
Research Organisation and welcomed the involvement of young Bhutanese
scientists in India to work on building and launching Bhutan’s satellite. As
part of its efforts to improve educational opportunities for students
throughout the Himalayan Kingdom, India established an e-library gateway for
Bhutan. It is expected that the introduction of the Ru-Pay card and Bhutan’s QR
code payment system would further promote financial technology cooperation
between the two nations by making cross-border QR code payments more easy,
secure, and affordable.
For the sake of promoting a better
understanding of the two nations and their inhabitants, both countries hold
annual youth summits to bring together the next generation of diplomats and
policymakers. In contrast, events like the India-Bhutan start-up conference
help in establishing stronger future economic relations and foster more
cooperation between the two countries’ corporate sectors.
Conclusion
The
India-Bhutan relationship exemplifies the profound impact of soft power
diplomacy in building and nurturing bilateral ties. Historical, cultural, and
geographical affinities, along with shared values, education initiatives,
cultural exchanges, and collaborative projects, have collectively contributed
to the growth of a relationship rooted in mutual respect and understanding. As
both nations continue to harness the potential of soft power diplomacy, they
pave the way for a future of enduring cooperation and shared prosperity.
Endnotes
1 Ministry of External Affairs, Government of
India, “Bhutan and India: Interactions through Ages,”
https://mea.gov.in/Portal/ ForeignRelation/Bhutan_July_2021.pdf
2 Joseph Nye, Bound to Lead: The Changing Nature
of American Power, (Basic Books, A Member of Perseus Books, L.L.C.,1991).
3 Joseph Nye, Soft Power: The Means to Success
in World Politics, (Public Affairs, 2009).
4 Alaya Purewal,
Standing Committee Report Summary: India’s Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy,
PRS Legislative Research,
https://prsindia.org/policy/report-summaries/india-s-soft-power-and-cultural-diplomacy.
5 Ministry of External Affairs, Government of
India, India’s Soft Power Diplomacy, https://www.mea.gov.in/distinguished-lectures-detail.htm?850.
6 Rohan Mukherjee, “The false promise of India’s
Soft Power,” Geopolitics, History, and International Relations, Vol.6(1),
(2014): 47-49.
7 Embassy of India, “Bhutan-India Relations”,
Thimphu, Bhutan. https://www.indembthimphu.gov.in/pages.php?id=15.
8 Kumar, Ashwini, “Soft Power Diplomacy in
India’s Neighbourhood: The Bhutan Example.” ORF Issue Brief, Observer Research
Foundation,
https://www.orfonline.org/research/soft-power-diplomacy-in-indias-neighbourhood-the-bhutan-example-52387/.
9 Ura, Karma, “Gross National Happiness and
Development: An Indigenous Approach to Development.” Indian Journal of
Comparative Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, vol. 33, no. 1,
2012, pp. 29-42.
10 AAM Admi Party, Delhi Government, Delhi Govt
To Introduce “Happiness Curriculum” In Govt Schools: Deputy Cm Manish Sisodia,
Accessed on February 07, 2018,
https://aamaadmiparty.org/delhi-govt-to-introduce-happiness-curriculum-in-govt-schools-deputy-cm-manish-sisodia/
11 Pandey, Abhishek. “The Role of Buddhism in
India-Bhutan Relations.” The Diplomat,
https://thediplomat.com/2016/12/the-role-of-buddhism-in-india-bhutan-relations.
12 South Asia Monitor, “Hydropower, Bhutan’s most
valuable export, is likely to suffer production loss this year,” Accessed on
September 23, 2021,
https://www.southasiamonitor.org/bhutan/hydropower-bhutans-most-valuable-export-likely-suffer-production-loss-year
13 Belfiglio, V.J. 1972. India’s economic and
political relations with Bhutan. Asian Survey 12(8): 676-685. Bhaskar, U. 2013
“India, Bhutan to discuss tricky issue of power tariff revision” Live Mint, 21
July 2013.
www.livemint.com/Industry/rlATmnbiH6BGvv5URzPszO/India-Bhutan-to-discuss-tricky-issue-of-power-tariffrevisi.html
(accessed 26 May 2019).
14 Dhurba Rizal, “Bhutan-India Relations: The
Shifting Bhutanese Perceptions and Geopolitical Gambit,” in India in South
Asia: Challenges and Management, ed. Amit Ranjan, (Singapore: Springer, 2019).
@Dr.
Beena has
completed two Post-Doctoral Projects, one with the Delhi School of
Transnational Affairs, Institution of Eminence, University of Delhi and
second with the Centre of Public Policy and Governance of Utkal University
under Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan 2.0 project. Her research interests
include South Asian Studies, Migration and Refugee Studies.
Journal
of the United Service Institution of India,
Vol. CLIII, No. 634, October-December 2023.