Key Facts & Data Points

  • Edition: 11th Raisina Dialogue (2026)
  • Venue: New Delhi, India
  • Organisers: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in partnership with Observer Research Foundation (ORF)
  • Theme: Samskara – Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement
  • New Initiative Launched: Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (SDI)
  • Focus areas: AI governance, semiconductor supply chains, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for developing nations
  • Strategic Engagements Highlighted:
  • BRICS participation
  • India‑Middle East‑Europe Economic Corridor
  • India‑France‑UAE (UFI) Trilateral
  • Calls for Reform: Permanent membership for India in the UN Security Council
  • Maritime Security Emphasis: Protection of global supply chains, under‑sea communication cables, and key maritime routes in the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Indo‑Pacific.

Background & Context

  • Raisina Dialogue was inaugurated in 2016 as India’s premier geopolitics and geo‑economics conference, akin to the Munich Security Conference (Germany) and Shangri‑La Dialogue (Singapore).
  • The dialogue serves as a platform for global leaders, policymakers, academics, industry experts, and journalists to discuss pressing international issues.
  • 2026’s theme Samskara reflects the interplay of civilisational identity, diversity, and collective progress.

Significance for India & Governance

  • Science Diplomacy: By integrating science & technology into foreign policy, India aims to shape global standards on AI, secure semiconductor supply chains, and export its DPI model, enhancing strategic autonomy.
  • Multipolar World & South‑South Partnerships: Recognising the rise of the Global South, India positions itself as a builder of new partnerships, leveraging platforms like BRICS and the India‑Middle East‑Europe corridor.
  • UNSC Reform: Persistent advocacy for a permanent seat aligns with India’s aspiration to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities in global governance.
  • Maritime Security: Emphasis on under‑sea cables and sea lanes underscores India’s interest in safeguarding trade routes vital for its economy and energy security.

Related Constitutional / Legal Provisions

  • Article 73 & 74 of the Indian Constitution empower the President and Council of Ministers to conduct foreign affairs, providing the legal basis for initiatives like the SDI.
  • UN Charter (Article 24) mandates the Security Council’s responsibility for international peace and security, forming the backdrop for India’s push for reform.

Implications for UPSC

  • Prelims: Factual recall of the initiative’s launch, focus areas, and strategic partnerships.
  • Mains: Analytical essays on science diplomacy, multipolarity, UN reforms, and maritime security.
  • Interview: Discuss India’s role in shaping global tech governance and its strategic positioning in the Indo‑Pacific.

Prepared for UPSC aspirants – Drishti IAS