Find ways to counter China’s soft power push: Parliamentary panel to MEA

A parliamentary panel has recommended that the ministry of external affairs (MEA) prepare a policy document on India’s soft power projections amid efforts by China to give a mega push to its soft power.

“The committee is aware that soft power capabilities have great relevance and potential in augmenting positive perceptions about a country and its national interests,” the parliamentary committee on external affairs said in its report on ‘India’s Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy Prospects & Limitations’ released on Monday.

“India with its wide ranging instrument of soft power has a definite advantage in comparison to many other countries. However, in absence of formulation of a clear cut policy on our soft power projection, this may not have been possible. The committee has been constrained to note that despite making specific recommendations in this regard in their 13th report to the 16th Lok Sabha, the policy is still at consultation stage.”


“The committee have, therefore, strongly desired that the ministry should prepare a policy document on India’s soft power projections, delineating India’s soft power toolbox and manner in which it is being projected abroad along a vision statement for the future," the panel said.

It also said a formal study of international best practices of soft power projections should be done on a priority basis and the learnings from such a study must be factored in while formulating India’s strategy. “China is estimated to spend about $10 billion a year just on its Confucius Institutes and soft power promotion whereas ICCR (Indian Council of Cultural Relations) and other agencies put together spend around (Rs) 300-400 crore. Most of India’s expenditure goes in establishment and administration,” the report said.