Soft power
The term soft power is used in international relations under which a state indirectly influences the behavior or interests of another country through cultural or ideological means.It attempts to influence other states without using aggressive policies or monetary influence. The concept of soft power was first used by Joseph Nye of Harvard University.The Central Government is developing 'Soft Power Matrix' to give more edge to Indian foreign policy. Its goal is to increase the reach and effectiveness of India's soft power abroad so that India can take better advantage of foreign forums and its diplomatic relations with foreign countries.
About Soft Power Matrix
The proposed matrix is being seen as an attempt to establish a link between India's soft power in the field of diplomacy and foreign diplomacy and achieving tangible results in foreign relations.Although India has earned a respectable place in the world community through its soft power, but in the context of India's foreign policy,it is often said that India has not been able to take full advantage of its soft power in foreign and diplomatic matters,This matrix is being prepared keeping in view this criticism. Spirituality, Yoga,Sarvadharma Sambhav and the policy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, non-violence and democratic values, music, dance,painting,sculpture,architecture, literature, medicine and cinema are some of the prominent examples of soft power of India.
The Matrix by the Government of India abroad is to promote Gandhian values and philosophy, leverage the popularity of the Mumbai film industry, educational scholarships extended bythe Ministry of External Affairs to students from different countries, humanitarian aid and reduce the adverse effects of natural disasters. Outreach efforts, such as providing disaster relief, will be aligned with other elements of foreign policy. India is also striving to use its technical skills in the form of soft power. Under this effort, India has dedicated the GSAT-9 satellite in the name of 'South Asia Satellite' to SAARC countries.
