Modi’s Oath Ceremony: A Diplomatic Affirmation of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ Approach

In a resounding reaffirmation of India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the ‘SAGAR’ vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming swearing-in ceremony has garnered significant attention from regional leaders. Scheduled for June 9, 2024, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the ceremony will host distinguished guests from neighboring nations and the Indian Ocean region.

Among the esteemed invitees are President Ranil Wickremesinghe of Sri Lanka, President Mohamed Muizzu of Maldives, Vice-President Ahmed Afif of Seychelles, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh, Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth of Mauritius, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ of Nepal, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay of Bhutan.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized the significance of their presence, stating, “The visit of these leaders to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his third consecutive term aligns with India’s highest priority accorded to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and ‘SAGAR’ vision.”

In addition to participating in the oath-taking ceremony, the leaders will also attend a banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan later that evening.

The seating arrangements have been meticulously organized for over 8,000 guests, including individuals from various professions such as laborers, lawyers, doctors, artists, cultural performers, and influencers, symbolizing the diverse fabric of Indian society.

The decision to keep the guest list compact aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s impending participation in the G7 summit in Italy. This strategic move underscores India’s adept management of global engagements while upholding its commitment to strengthening regional partnerships.

Prime Minister Modi’s invitation to neighboring leaders echoes his proactive approach to regional diplomacy, building upon earlier initiatives such as the convening of the SAARC summit in 2014 and the invitation extended to BIMSTEC countries in 2019. It exemplifies India’s proactive role in shaping regional dynamics and fostering mutual prosperity.

With the formal endorsement of PM Modi’s leadership by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), supported by allies such as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal (United), India embarks on a new chapter under his stewardship.

As the stage is set for the oath-taking ceremony, it signifies not only a ceremonial ritual but also a testament to India’s enduring commitment to regional cooperation, echoing the timeless dictum of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the world is one family.