On May 08, 2025, Vice-President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, while addressing the Kautilya Fellows from the India Foundation in New Delhi, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance as a reflection of Kautilya’s philosophy, emphasizing transformative development and global peace. This topic is vital for competitive exam aspirants, offering insights into India’s governance and historical ethos.
Kautilya’s Philosophy in Modern Governance
Alignment with PM Modi’s Vision
Vice-President Dhankhar highlighted that PM Modi has exemplified Kautilya’s principles of statecraft, security, and participatory governance. He noted that Kautilya’s treatise on governance remains relevant in today’s multipolar world of shifting alliances, quoting, “A neighboring state is an enemy, and enemy’s enemy is a friend,” and emphasizing India’s commitment to global peace and welfare.
PM Modi’s Transformative Leadership
Decade of Impactful Governance
Dhankhar lauded PM Modi’s visionary leadership, noting his focus on large-scale transformation. He highlighted Modi’s rare achievement of securing a third consecutive term, which has driven significant progress, with results evident in India’s development trajectory over the past decade.
Aspirational Districts and Smart Cities
The Vice-President cited the transformation of ‘Aspirational Districts’ into leading development hubs and the creation of ‘Smart Cities’ to boost economic activity in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. These initiatives reflect Modi’s innovative approach to inclusive growth and infrastructure development.
Participatory Democracy and Development
Kautilya’s Emphasis on Collective Effort
Dhankhar underscored Kautilya’s belief in participatory democracy, quoting, “Just as one wheel alone does not move a cart,” to emphasize that administration requires collective effort. He praised the current administration’s innovative and inclusive approach, ensuring national welfare through individual contributions.
Power and Governance Principles
Limitations of Power
The Vice-President stressed that power is defined by its limitations, a core tenet of Kautilya’s philosophy. He noted that democracy thrives when leaders remain mindful of these limits, with the ultimate goal being the welfare of the people, as Kautilya declared, “The happiness of the king lies in the happiness of his people.”
India’s Civilizational Democratic Ethos
Vedic Roots of Democracy
Dhankhar emphasized that India’s democratic spirit predates its Constitution, rooted in thousands of years of Vedic culture. He described the complementary mechanism of expression and dialogue—‘Abhivyakti’ and ‘Vaad Vivaad’—as a hallmark of India’s democratic tradition, distinguishing it from other forms of governance.
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