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By:

Akhilesh Sinha

25 June 2025 at 2:53:54 pm

India's multi-align diplomacy triumphs

New Delhi: West Asia has transformed into a battlefield rained by fireballs. Seas or land, everywhere echoes the roar of cataclysmic explosions, flickering flames, and swirling smoke clouds. et amid such adversity, Indian ships boldly waving the Tricolour navigate the strait undeterred, entering the Arabian Sea. More remarkably, Iran has sealed its airspace to global flights but opened it for the safe evacuation of Indians.   This scene evokes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's memorable 2014...

India's multi-align diplomacy triumphs

New Delhi: West Asia has transformed into a battlefield rained by fireballs. Seas or land, everywhere echoes the roar of cataclysmic explosions, flickering flames, and swirling smoke clouds. et amid such adversity, Indian ships boldly waving the Tricolour navigate the strait undeterred, entering the Arabian Sea. More remarkably, Iran has sealed its airspace to global flights but opened it for the safe evacuation of Indians.   This scene evokes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's memorable 2014 interview. He stated that "there was a time when we counted waves from the shore; now the time has come to take the helm and plunge into the ocean ourselves."   In a world racing toward conflict, Modi has proven India's foreign policy ranks among the world's finest. Guided by 'Nation First' and prioritising Indian safety and interests, it steadfastly embodies  'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' , the world as one family.   Policy Shines Modi's foreign policy shines with such clarity and patience that even as war flames engulf West Asian nations, Indians studying and working there return home safe. In just 13 days, nearly 100,000 were evacuated from Gulf war zones, mostly by air, some via Armenia by road. PM Modi talked with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian to secure Iran's airspace for the safe evacuation of Indians, a privilege denied to any other nation. Additionally, clearance was granted for Indian ships carrying crude oil and LPG to pass safely through the Hormuz Strait. No other country's vessels are navigating these waters, except for those of Iran's ally, China. The same strategy worked in the Ukraine-Russia war: talks with both presidents ensured safe corridors, repatriating over 23,000 students and businessmen. Iran, Israel, or America, all know India deems terrorism or war unjustifiable at any cost. PM Modi amplified anti-terror campaigns from UN to global platforms, earning open support from many nations.   Global Powerhouse Bolstered by robust foreign policy and economic foresight, India emerges as a global powerhouse, undeterred by tariff hurdles. Modi's adept diplomacy yields notable successes. Contrast this with Nehru's era: wedded to Non-Aligned Movement, he watched NAM member China seize vast Ladakh territory in war. Today, Modi's government signals clearly, India honors friends, spares no foes. Abandoning non-alignment, it embraces multi-alignment: respecting sovereignties while prioritizing human welfare and progress. The world shifts from unipolar or bipolar to multipolar dynamics.   Modi's policy hallmark is that India seal defense deals like the S-400 and others with Russia yet sustains US friendship. America bestows Legion of Merit; Russia, its highest civilian honor, Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. India nurtures ties with Israel, Palestine, Iran via bilateral talks. Saudi Arabia stands shoulder-to-shoulder across fronts; UAE trade exceeds $80 billion. UN's top environment award, UNEP Champions of the Earth, graces India, unlike past when foreign nations campaigned against us on ecological pretexts.   This policy's triumph roots in economic empowerment. India now ranks the world's fourth-largest economy, poised for third in 1-2 years. The 2000s dubbed it 'fragile'; then-PM economist Dr. Manmohan Singh led. Yet  'Modinomics'  prevailed. As COVID crippled supply chains, recession loomed, inflation soared and growth plunged in developed countries,  Modinomics  made India the 'bright star.' Inflation stayed controlled, growth above 6.2 per cent. IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas praised it, advising the world to learn from India.

International Film Festival of India: Celebrating Cinema Across Borders

Updated: Nov 25, 2024

International Film Festival of India

The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is a grand celebration of cinema that brings together filmmakers and film lovers from across the globe. For many, including myself, it’s more than just a festival—it’s a journey into the world of stories, creativity, and cultural exchange.


A Journey Through Time IFFI began in 1952 as a way to showcase the best of world cinema and create a platform for cultural exchange. The first edition, held in Mumbai, featured 40 films from 21 countries and marked the beginning of India’s global engagement with cinema.


Since 2004, Goa has been the festival's permanent home, and its picturesque beauty adds to the charm of this prestigious event. Organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting along with the Entertainment Society of Goa, IFFI has grown into one of the most important film festivals in Asia.


A Platform for Global Cinema

IFFI celebrates the art of filmmaking with a rich lineup of feature films, documentaries, and animations. It hosts competitive sections like the International Competition, with the prestigious Golden Peacock award, and the Indian Panorama, which showcases the diversity of Indian cinema through regional storytelling.


This year, a new International Debut section will spotlight emerging filmmakers. Masterclasses, tributes to legendary filmmakers, and retrospectives continue to make IFFI a space for learning and inspiration.


Highlights of IFFI 2024

The 55th edition of IFFI promises an exciting lineup of over 200 films from 70 countries. Wim Wenders’ Perfect Days will open the festival, and retrospectives of Indian legend Satyajit Ray and Japanese filmmaker Yasujiro Ozu are among the key attractions.


In keeping with the latest trends, IFFI 2024 will feature immersive screenings in virtual reality and workshops on AI-powered storytelling. A special Goa Spotlight section will showcase films inspired by the culture and stories of Goa.


Supporting Talent and Innovation

IFFI isn’t just about screenings; it’s also about nurturing talent. Initiatives like the Short Film Center and the Film Bazaar help emerging filmmakers connect with producers and distributors. Workshops on modern filmmaking techniques, including AI and visual effects, show the festival’s commitment to innovation.


A Global Cultural Exchange

IFFI serves as a melting pot of ideas, where filmmakers, students, and audiences engage in discussions that transcend borders. The presence of global stars alongside Indian cinema icons highlights the festival’s international appeal.


More Than Just Films

During the festival, Goa comes alive with cultural events, exhibitions, and live performances, making IFFI a complete celebration of creativity. It’s not just about cinema; it’s about art, culture, and storytelling in all its forms.


A Legacy of Storytelling

Over seven decades, IFFI has played a key role in putting India on the global cinematic map. It honors the greats of cinema while embracing new technologies and ideas, showing how storytelling evolves over time.

As IFFI 2024 unfolds, it reminds us of the power of cinema to connect and inspire. For someone like me, who has witnessed its magic over the years, it remains a shining example of how stories can transcend borders and touch hearts.


Cinema, after all, is not just about entertainment—it’s about bringing people together. And IFFI is a celebration of that unity.


(The author is a communication professional. Views personal.)

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