Introduction: Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was an ancient Indian philosopher, strategist, and the author of the Arthashastra, a treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy. His insights on foreign policy, often termed as “Kautilyan Realism,” emphasized pragmatism, power politics, and the pursuit of national interest. Despite being written over two millennia ago, Kautilya’s foreign policy principles continue to hold contemporary relevance in today’s complex global landscape.

Core Principles of Kautilya’s Foreign Policy:

1. Mandala Theory: Kautilya’s Mandala Theory suggests that a state’s neighbors are its natural enemies, while the neighbors’ neighbors are potential allies. This concept of strategic alliances is still relevant in modern diplomacy, where nations build alliances not just based on ideology but also on shared strategic interests. For example, India’s relationships with countries in the Indo-Pacific, like Japan and Australia, are influenced by shared concerns about regional stability and countering China’s influence.
2. Yogakshema (Welfare of the People): Kautilya emphasized that the ultimate objective of a ruler’s foreign policy should be the welfare and security of the state and its people. In contemporary terms, this is reflected in India’s “Neighborhood First” policy and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. India’s aid to neighboring countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the supply of vaccines under the “Vaccine Maitri” initiative, is an example of prioritizing regional stability and welfare in foreign policy.
3. Shadgunya (Six-Fold Policy): Kautilya outlined six strategies in foreign policy: Sandhi (peace treaty), Vigraha (war), Asana (neutrality), Yana (preparation for war), Samshraya (seeking protection), and Dvaidhibhava (dual policy). These strategies highlight the importance of flexibility and adaptability in diplomacy. In modern contexts, India’s balanced approach in global conflicts, such as its neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war, demonstrates the relevance of Kautilya’s strategic diversity.

Contemporary Relevance of Kautilya’s Foreign Policy:

1. Realpolitik: Kautilya’s emphasis on realpolitik, where national interest supersedes moral or ethical considerations, resonates with modern foreign policy practices. For instance, India’s diplomatic engagements with countries like the United States, Russia, and China are driven by strategic interests, such as defense cooperation, energy security, and regional stability, rather than ideological alignment.
2. Strategic Autonomy: Kautilya advocated for a state to maintain its sovereignty and avoid becoming overly dependent on any single power. This principle is reflected in India’s current policy of strategic autonomy, where it engages with multiple global powers while maintaining its independent stance. India’s participation in platforms like BRICS, QUAD, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) illustrates its effort to balance relations without aligning exclusively with any bloc.
3. Use of Soft Power: While Kautilya primarily focused on hard power, his understanding of influence and statecraft also aligns with the contemporary use of soft power. India’s cultural diplomacy, promotion of yoga, and emphasis on historical ties with countries in Southeast Asia reflect a Kautilyan approach to expanding influence without direct confrontation.
4. Countering External Threats: Kautilya’s strategies for dealing with external threats through alliances, espionage, and strategic offensives find parallels in today’s counterterrorism strategies and intelligence-sharing agreements. For example, India’s cooperation with other countries on counterterrorism efforts post-26/11 Mumbai attacks shows the application of Kautilyan principles in securing the state from external threats.

Conclusion: Kautilya’s foreign policy principles continue to guide contemporary statecraft, particularly in areas like strategic autonomy, realpolitik, and the pragmatic pursuit of national interest. As India navigates a multipolar world with complex challenges, the relevance of Kautilya’s teachings is evident in its foreign policy strategies, which prioritize national security, regional stability, and the welfare of its people. The timeless nature of Kautilya’s insights ensures that they remain a valuable reference for policymakers in the 21st century.