Introduction to Buddhism in Indian Foreign Policy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently emphasized Buddhism as a core element in India's foreign policy, leveraging the religion to strengthen cultural, strategic, and economic ties with other nations, particularly in Asia. This approach not only bolsters India's global influence but also positions the country as a cultural and spiritual leader, promoting peace and harmony across borders.

Buddhism, with its teachings of compassion, coexistence, and wisdom, offers an ideal platform for diplomatic outreach. The religion's pan-Asian presence allows India to enhance its relations with neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Japan, as well as engage with other states in Southeast and East Asia.

Strategic Engagement: Act East Policy

PM Modi's "Act East" policy is a key aspect of India's foreign strategy, focusing on strengthening ties with Asia-Pacific countries. This policy has made Buddhism a pivotal tool for enhancing bilateral relations, promoting economic and strategic ties, and countering China's growing influence in the region[4]. India's engagement with Buddhist nations is designed to build on shared cultural and spiritual values, fostering cooperation and mutual understanding.

Key Initiatives and Diplomatic Engagements

• Relics and Cultural Exchanges: In 2024, India sent sacred relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples to Thailand, where they were displayed across four cities. This gesture symbolized India's commitment to cultural diplomacy and its role in promoting Buddhist heritage globally[1][5].

• Global Buddhist Summit: In 2023, PM Modi hosted the first-ever Global Buddhist Summit in New Delhi. The event brought together scholars and practitioners to discuss contemporary global challenges through the lens of Buddhist philosophy. This initiative underscored India's vision for global harmony and peace, inspired by Buddhist teachings[3][5].

• Infrastructure and Tourism Development: Domestic initiatives, such as the Buddhist Circuit and the Kushinagar International Airport, have significantly enhanced pilgrimage tourism. These projects not only promote India's Buddhist heritage but also facilitate deeper cultural engagement with international visitors[5].

Geopolitical and Cultural Significance

Buddhism's role in Indian diplomacy extends beyond cultural exchange; it serves as a strategic tool for soft power projection. By emphasizing shared Buddhist heritage, India aims to balance the influence of other major powers in the region, notably China. The launch of initiatives like the Samvad – Global Hindu-Buddhist Initiative reflects this approach, fostering geocultural connections to counterbalance geoeconomic strategies like China's Silk Road[3].

India's engagement with Buddhist countries also enhances its bilateral relationships through:

• Economic Cooperation: Strengthening trade and investments with nations like Japan and Sri Lanka, where Buddhism plays a significant role culturally and historically[4].

• Cultural Diplomacy: PM Modi's visits to iconic Buddhist sites, such as the Quan Su Pagoda in Vietnam and the Toji and Kinkaku-ji temples in Japan, reinforce India's commitment to cultural exchange and deep-rooted ties with these countries[5].

Conclusion

PM Modi's focus on Buddhism in India's foreign policy represents a strategic blend of cultural diplomacy, soft power projection, and geopolitical maneuvering. By emphasizing shared Buddhist values, India seeks to foster global harmony, promote peace, and enhance its international standing as a cultural and spiritual hub. As India continues to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, its commitment to Buddhism remains a powerful tool for building bridges with other nations and advancing its vision for a more harmonious world.