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26 Jan 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
International RelationsPolity & GovernanceNEWS

President Murmu: India Promotes Peace Amid Global Conflicts

President Murmu emphasizes India's role as a messenger of peace globally.

President Murmu: India Promotes Peace Amid Global Conflicts

Photo by Big G Media

President Droupadi Murmu stated that India is spreading the message of peace in a world marked by conflict, asserting that global harmony is essential for securing the future of humanity. Addressing the nation on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, the President touched upon national security, women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation, economic growth, and democratic governance, while positioning India’s role in the world within its civilizational ethos. She highlighted India's tradition of offering prayers for peace to prevail in the entire universe.

Key Facts

1.

President's message: India promotes global peace

2.

77th Republic Day address

3.

Focus: Peace, security, empowerment

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper II: International Relations - India's role in global affairs

2.

GS Paper II: Polity - Constitutional values and principles guiding foreign policy

3.

Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical, and current affairs focused

Visual Insights

India's Peace Initiatives in a Conflict-Ridden World

This map highlights regions where India is actively involved in peace initiatives, reflecting President Murmu's message of global harmony. The markers indicate countries and regions where India has contributed to peacekeeping, conflict resolution, or humanitarian aid.

Loading interactive map...

📍Afghanistan📍Ukraine📍Myanmar📍United Nations Peacekeeping Missions
More Information

Background

India's commitment to peace has deep historical roots, tracing back to ancient philosophies like 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family) and the teachings of Buddhism and Jainism, which emphasize non-violence and compassion. During the Mauryan Empire, Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism after the Kalinga War, promoting peace and dharma through edicts inscribed on pillars across the subcontinent. In the medieval era, Sufi and Bhakti saints advocated for communal harmony and universal brotherhood.

Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of Satyagraha, rooted in non-violent resistance, played a pivotal role in India's independence movement and inspired global peace movements. Post-independence, India championed the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) during the Cold War, advocating for peaceful coexistence and disarmament amidst global polarization.

Latest Developments

In recent years, India has actively engaged in peacebuilding efforts through various initiatives. It has contributed significantly to UN peacekeeping missions, deploying troops and resources to conflict zones worldwide. India has also played a crucial role in mediating regional disputes, particularly in its neighborhood, promoting dialogue and reconciliation.

The country's 'Neighborhood First' policy emphasizes peaceful relations and cooperation with neighboring countries. Furthermore, India has been a strong advocate for multilateralism and international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and pandemics. India's growing economic and strategic influence provides it with greater opportunities to contribute to global peace and stability in the coming years.

The focus is on leveraging soft power through cultural diplomacy and humanitarian assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main message from President Murmu regarding India's role in the world, as highlighted in her Republic Day address?

President Murmu emphasized that India is promoting peace in a world filled with conflict, highlighting that global harmony is crucial for the future of humanity.

2. According to the information, what are some of the key areas President Murmu touched upon in her Republic Day address?

President Murmu's address covered national security, women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation, economic growth, and democratic governance.

3. How does India's current focus on global peace align with its historical background?

India's commitment to peace has deep historical roots, stemming from philosophies like 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and the teachings of Buddhism and Jainism, which advocate for non-violence and compassion. Emperor Ashoka's embrace of Buddhism after the Kalinga War further solidified this commitment.

4. What is 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and how does it relate to India's foreign policy?

'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' translates to 'the world is one family'. It reflects India's belief in global unity and peaceful coexistence, influencing its foreign policy approach towards cooperation and diplomacy.

5. What role has India played in international peacekeeping efforts recently?

India has actively engaged in peacebuilding through contributions to UN peacekeeping missions, deploying troops and resources to conflict zones. It has also played a role in mediating regional disputes, promoting dialogue and reconciliation, particularly within its neighborhood through its 'Neighborhood First' policy.

6. How might President Murmu's emphasis on peace impact India's standing on the global stage?

By emphasizing peace, India can strengthen its image as a responsible global player committed to peaceful conflict resolution and international cooperation. This can enhance its diplomatic influence and foster stronger relationships with other nations.

7. What are some potential challenges India might face in promoting peace on a global scale?

Challenges could include navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, balancing its own security interests with peace initiatives, and dealing with differing perspectives on conflict resolution among various nations.

8. What is the significance of the 77th Republic Day in the context of President Murmu's message?

The 77th Republic Day provided a platform for President Murmu to reiterate India's commitment to its founding values of peace, democracy, and progress, while highlighting its evolving role in the international arena.

9. How can India's focus on women's empowerment contribute to its goal of promoting global peace?

Women's empowerment can lead to more inclusive and equitable societies, which are often more resilient and less prone to conflict. Empowered women can play a crucial role in peacebuilding and conflict resolution processes.

10. What specific actions has India taken recently to promote its 'Neighborhood First' policy in relation to peace?

As per the provided information, India has been actively mediating regional disputes, promoting dialogue, and reconciliation within its neighborhood through its 'Neighborhood First' policy.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding India's approach to global peace:

  • A.India's foreign policy is solely based on the principle of non-alignment, avoiding any military alliances.
  • B.India advocates for complete disarmament and opposes any form of nuclear deterrence.
  • C.India promotes multilateralism and peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.
  • D.India's commitment to global peace is a recent development, primarily driven by economic interests.
Show Answer

Answer: C

Statement C is correct. India has consistently promoted multilateralism and peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. Statement A is incorrect as India engages in strategic partnerships. Statement B is incorrect as India maintains a 'credible minimum deterrence'. Statement D is incorrect as India's commitment to peace is rooted in its civilizational ethos.

2. Which of the following principles, enshrined in the Indian Constitution, aligns most closely with President Murmu's message of promoting global peace?

  • A.Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty
  • B.Article 51: Promotion of international peace and security
  • C.Article 14: Equality before law
  • D.Article 19: Protection of certain rights regarding freedom of speech
Show Answer

Answer: B

Article 51 of the Indian Constitution directly addresses the promotion of international peace and security, making it the most relevant principle. It directs the State to endeavor to foster respect for international law and treaty obligations, and to encourage settlement of international disputes by arbitration. The other articles are important fundamental rights but do not directly relate to global peace.

3. Assertion (A): India's emphasis on 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' reflects its commitment to global harmony.

  • A.Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B.Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
  • C.A is true but R is false
  • D.A is false but R is true
Show Answer

Answer: A

Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', meaning 'the world is one family', is a core philosophy that underpins India's approach to international relations and its commitment to global harmony. This philosophy promotes the idea of interconnectedness and shared responsibility for the well-being of all humanity.

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