In his recent speech at the foreign student convocation ceremony at Parul University in Vadodara, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar outlined India’s strong and changing position on international diplomacy, national security, and terrorism. The globe is experiencing a paradigm shift in security dynamics, especially with regard to retaliation against terrorism, Jaishankar said in his speech.
In contrast to the past, when terrorists could act across national borders with impunity, he claimed that terrorist hotspots are “no longer immune” to counterattacks. He pointed out that this shift is evident in India’s zero-tolerance stance against terrorism, which is now being implemented with firm deeds rather than just words.
Jaishankar notably brought up the terror assault in Pahalgam on April 22, emphasizing its two-pronged goal of destroying Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism industry and sowing the seeds of religious strife in the area. Given the brutality of the attack—26 people were killed—a robust response was required. Operation Sindoor, an Indian military operation, targeted and destroyed terrorist command centers in Bahawalpur and Muridke, sending a strong message that those who support, encourage, or use terrorism will pay a high price.
Targeting solely terror infrastructure and excluding military installations within Pakistani territory, this operation was one of India’s most important cross-border operations since the 2019 Balakot airstrikes. It was marked by precision and restraint.
The minister reaffirmed India’s determination to resist nuclear blackmail and stated that the nation’s best interests always come first while making decisions pertaining to national security.
In contrast to the aftermath of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, when a strong response was widely desired but not carried out, he said that India’s response to terrorism has been stronger and more determined with time. Jaishankar added that other countries’ recognition of India’s right to self-defense after Operation Sindoor shows that the international community is beginning to acknowledge this right.
Moving on to the larger framework of international relations, Jaishankar criticized the increasing tendency of certain countries to embrace overtly “transactional” approaches, giving narrow self-interest precedence above reciprocal understanding and gain.
He emphasized that although it is normal to advance national interests, partners’ respect for one another’s culture, traditions, and legacy should serve as a guide. As a “rare civilizational state,” Jaishankar said, India cherishes sentiments and ideals and, in spite of its limited resources, is dedicated to its responsibilities to the world community.
Additionally, he issued a warning about emerging forms of dominance in the post-colonial era, wherein some powers abuse globalization to meddle in the domestic affairs of nations in the global south. India’s larger goal of regaining its proper role in the international order—not by force or imposition, but by encouraging respect and collaboration among nations—is reflected in Jaishankar’s remarks.
A thorough summary of India’s current security doctrine was given in Jaishankar’s speech, including its zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, its refusal to submit to nuclear pressure, and its dedication to principled, value-driven diplomacy. While India’s interactions with the international world are still based on respect and common principles, the Pahalgam incident and the ensuing Operation Sindoor demonstrate the country’s readiness to take strong action against terrorism.
