Chanakya Policy & Research Foundation

In the epoch of technological transformation, diplomacy encompasses more than conventional summits and embassies—it extends to the vast panorama of cyberspace. In the words of Joseph Nye, “Information is power, and today a much larger part of the world’s population has access to that power”, digital diplomacy has become an indispensable form of soft power. The term digital diplomacy carries an intriguing convergence of digital innovation and diplomacy, demonstrating the evolution of communication and information technologies is reconceptualising the practice of diplomacy. 

Technological innovation is redefining the world for policymakers and practitioners alike. This rapid change brings significant challenges, as decision-makers must adapt to digital platforms that are revolutionizing public engagement, commerce, and even the nature of warfare. India’s soft power has enormous prospects as recognised by Gandhi and Nehru, which became a strong foundation for the global anti-colonial movement and later for Non-Aligned Movement. The non-coercive power embraced  India’s cultural ethos, ideological tenets, and strategic diplomacy. The article explores India’s persistent efforts to leverage its soft power in the international landscape. It emphasises the novel pathways solidified through digital diplomacy, which are reshaping global perspectives and cultivating strategic alliances. Through the free flow of cultural values, compelling media campaigns, and dynamic participation on social media platforms, India endeavours to disseminate its aspirations and values forging alliances with nations around the world.

India’s diplomatic framework has consistently placed the state at the epicentre of diplomatic dialogues. Nevertheless, while formal routes for broader contribution have not always existed, multiple stakeholder engagements have shaped the diplomatic positions and approaches embraced by the Indian government at various global negotiations. This joint approach is a testimonial as India navigates new challenges, especially in the realm of cybersecurity frameworks, where diverse stakeholders continue to influence the government’s position. India supported the resolutions in the First Committee to establish an aligned process for responsible state behaviour in cyberspace. At the Open-ended Working Group (OEWG) discussions, India upheld the idea of UN members working together to understand the workings of international law and how it applies to cyberspace. In the 2022 OEWG meetings, India contended that cross-border cyber operations could infringe on sovereignty, a standpoint shared by several other nations. Nonetheless, India has not been involved in the ongoing debates regarding whether sovereignty is an ordinance or an overarching concept of international law, nor has it declared a position on the forms of cyber activities that might breach sovereignty. India has been steadfast in promoting the safeguarding of trusted supply chains and critical information infrastructure in deliberations at the OEWG. Endorsing a methodical agenda centred on capacity building through efforts like the Global Cyber Security Cooperation Portal. This emphasis is motivated by the intersection of interests from both public and private sectors. These issues were essential to the Digital Security Corporation of India’s (DSCI) proposal to the National Cybersecurity Strategy. Although the DSCI does not unequivocally acknowledge cyber norms systems, domestic interest in these matters may have played a part in influencing India’s diplomatic stance. Moreover, trusted supply chains have been an integral part of India’s security policy, particularly after the increasing hostilities on the Sino-Indian border. 

In an article in Forbes, Ronak D. Desai notes India officially implemented social media into its diplomacy mechanism after a few members of the upper crust at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), who had been using their personal social media accounts to share diplomatic updates, convinced Indian politicians to grant access to social networking sites at government offices. Visualising a more interconnected and candid way to engage with global audiences, shifting from the conventional bureaucratic style of Indian politics. In 2006, India undertook a major step towards revamping its diplomacy by establishing the Public Diplomacy Division within the MEA, inspired by the United States’s Digital Outreach Team. This step marked the inception of India’s digital diplomacy, with the official Twitter account (now known as ‘X’) @indiandiplomacy launched on July 8 2010, in the same manner as the U.S. Department of State’s @StateDept. Additionally, to promote greater citizen engagement, the Indian government has introduced an official framework encouraging government agencies to embrace social media. This initiative underscores the vital role that social media plays in fostering constructive discussions and involving citizens in the formulation of public policies. By harnessing these platforms, the government aims to create a more inclusive dialogue and enhance the overall democratic process. Per these guidelines, social media transformed into an instrument to gather feedback, stimulate government policies, participate in public agendas, and promote a positive image of India, both within the country and globally. Following the government’s framework, Indian embassies, high commissions, and consulates worldwide started social media accounts like @IndiainNepal and @IndiainAfghanistan to connect with local citizens and bolster India’s diplomatic outreach. This transition marked a significant era for India’s diplomatic engagements making it accessible, dynamic and global. 

In essence, India’s digital diplomacy accentuates its consistent efforts to augment its influence on an international level through soft power. From its origins in the anticolonial movements and the Non-Aligned Movement to its contemporary involvement with digital platforms, India has relentlessly maximised its cultural and political ideals to mould global perspectives. Setting up of the Public Diplomacy Division and the integration of social media into the global outreach strategy showcase India’s pledge to engage with international audiences in a more immersive and interactive way. Furthermore, India’s role in forming international cybersecurity frameworks and its emphasis on trusted supply chains and strategic infrastructure mirrors the evolving convergence of diplomacy, technology and security.