Paper Details

This study examines the evolution of India's soft power diplomacy, emphasizing the cultural diplomacy initiatives led by the Indian Foreign Service (IFS). The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) has promoted India's cultural heritage globally. Key elements include yoga, Bollywood, Ayurveda, and the Indian diaspora. These efforts aim to enhance India's image and build goodwill. The paper examines how Western countries perceive these initiatives. It highlights their positive reception and also notes the challenges of balancing tradition with modernity. The study evaluates the economic benefits of cultural diplomacy, including its impact on tourism, trade, and foreign investment. Issues like limited resources, geopolitical tensions, and the need for better digital outreach still persist. The paper offers practical recommendations for India’s soft power diplomacy. It suggests diversifying cultural narratives and improving digital outreach. It also emphasizes allocating resources effectively. These steps aim to sustain and expand India’s soft power in a changing world.

India, Soft Power Diplomacy, Cultural Diplomacy, Indian Foreign Service, Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Tourism, Foreign Investment