Jaishankar: Politics Now Trumps Economics, Pushing India's Resilient Supply Chains
Jaishankar: Politics Now Trumps Economics, Pushing India's Resilient Supply Chains
Jaishankar argues politics now dominates economics, urging India to diversify supply sources and bolster self-reliance amid global fragmentation.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar says the world is in an era where politics increasingly influences economics, urging India to diversify its supply sources to protect national interests. He warns that global fragmentation and supply insecurity are reshaping how nations think about trade and manufacturing, and he highlights the urgency of building resilient, secure supply chains.
India is doubling down on self-reliance and manufacturing growth as pillars of its strategic outlook, aiming to reduce vulnerability to external shocks and geopolitical shifts. Diversifying where goods and inputs come from, strengthening domestic production capabilities, and ensuring reliable access to critical inputs are central to this effort.
Jaishankar notes that countries are diversifying production and energy sources beyond traditional anchors like the United States and China to hedge contingencies. Ownership and security of supply are now as crucial as cost, reflecting a broader trend toward more localized and diversified production networks. These shifts, he suggests, will redefine competitiveness and influence global economic decisions.
The remarks come after Jaishankar was conferred an honorary doctorate by IIM-Calcutta, where he spoke about the evolving world order and the need for resilient trade and investment models. His message underscores India’s push to create more production centers and collaborative ecosystems that can withstand geopolitical tensions while supporting growth and employment.
As nations reassess supply chains in critical sectors, India’s roadmap emphasizes attracting investment, improving infrastructure, and fostering innovation to sustain growth and safeguard national interests. The path forward, experts say, will require careful policy alignment, private-sector partnership, and sustained commitment to diversification and capacity-building.
Cover image source: Politics increasingly trumps economics in present era, says Jaishankar 🔗
