Every nation is a reflection of the collective will and societal consciousness of its people. Individuals give the nation its identity, vision and direction .Individual inculcates and imbibes societal values and traditions. This forms the basis for their orientation and world view.
India's world view too has been shaped by its historical experiences and traditions. It is impossible to be isolated from these deep rooted ancient valves and traditions. Indian civilization has witnessed continuity from the ancient times (Indus Valley Civilization) to the modern times. India's social outlook and even its constitutional framework reflect the stages through which India has progressed.
The traditional values that have had an over bearing effect on India’s world view are, tradition of debate and discussion,secularism,tolerance,ahimsa,preference for middle path (moderation), idealism and realistic philosophical roots, absence of imperialism and the anti-colonial struggle.
Indian culture with its core valve of ‘atithi devo bhava’ and philosophy of ‘vasudeva kutumbakkam’ (the world is one) has welcomed foreign ideas, thoughts and people. Indian freedom struggle too had a clear and distinct connection with Indian traditional values.
Indian society has given first priority to community and relegated to individual to sidelines. This community orientation along with our preference for ahimsa (non-violence) has pushed India on the path of reconciliation and averse to confrontation. Post–independence India did not exhibit hostility towards Britain for its past oppression and still today remains a member of common wealth. Even towards Pakistan India adopted a reconciliatory stance and paid the agreed monetary compensation.
The deep rooted values of debate and discussion can be witnessed right from the sabhas and samitis of Indus valley civilization to the courtrooms of emperors. This rich cultural tradition not only facilitated the establishment of constitutional democracy but also made Indians inclined to a non-confrontational path to conflict resolution.
Indian conception of ‘Akhand Bharat’ as a nation distinctly identified by geographical boundaries has also shaped Indian behavior at global stage. There have been very few aberrations of rulers trying to control areas beyond these natural frontiers. Indians can be proud of the fact that, India has never waged war against another nation or committed acts of aggression. The philosophy of ‘panchantantra’ prescribes that the kingdoms survival is to be secured by means of peace and war it to be only used as a last resort. India has not sought to dominate or subjugate any nation. Indian has been a responsible and benevolent neighbor to the south Asian region.
India also has a strong idealistic tradition. Its world view and foreign policy have been largely dictated by idealism. Taking the Kashmir dispute to the United Nations for a resolution and the Panchsheel agreement of 1954 was a result of the strong belief in this idealistic world vision. Post Sino-Indian conflict of 1962 there has been a mild shift towards realism. Even, realist tradition of Kautylia was moderated based on the concept of avoidance of extremes.
Moderation and ahimsa too have been clear strands in Indian tradition. The preference to stay non-aligned and choose the middle path between the super powers can be attributed to this. Moreover the absence of imperialistic past and anti-colonial struggle propelled India to desire a co-operative and collaborative global setup.
Indian tradition has favored harmonious co-existence with nature. Despite, India’s relative technological backwardness it has committed to significant steps to address climate change. In contrast to few developed nations, India set ambitious emission reduction target at the Paris Climate Conference.
Indian secularism too has prevented Indian from either favoring or opposing any issue on religious grounds. Indian stand has always been based on the merits of an issue irrespective of religious considerations.
These inherited traditional values have been a guiding beacon for India’s assessment and behavior in the global arena. Despite repeated provocations from some belligerent neighbors India has favoured peace and adopted a reconciliatory path.