India Track II diplomacy visit a "transformative experience"

Kritika (middle) along with Andrew Wilford (back) and students from Asha University

Born and brought up in New Zealand, the stories of India, the land of my parents, were vibrant threads woven into the fabric of my upbringing. Yet, landing in India as part of a delegation from New Zealand focusing on dialogue, international relations and regional outlooks, felt like turning a page in a long-awaited chapter.

For me, this was more than a visit; it was a journey of discovery and pride. A chance to bridge the geographical and cultural distance and engage first-hand and bridge two identities together as a Kiwi-Indian.

The air in New Delhi buzzed with the energy of global discourse as the Raisina Dialogue commenced. Being present amid such a confluence of policy experts and thought leaders from around the world felt both surreal and profoundly significant. I remember saying to myself before my travels, “You are going to be fully present in each and every moment and each and every interaction.”

Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi in 2018

The Raisina Dialogue, a key geopolotical event hosted by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, convenes global leaders to discuss critical international issues. I was honoured to attend the inauguration ceremony for the Raisina Dialogue on our delegation’s behalf.

The stage was set by the chief guest address by our New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, and I was ready to dive into packed and insightful sessions and connect with people across the globe.

Across the three days, I attended various sessions from Rethinking Energy Access to the G20 Solidarity Agenda, the prospects for peace and progress in the Middle East, authoritarian AI and ideas for BRICS presidencies.

I was fortunate to attend the highly anticipated parallel sessions on "The Southern Handover" and "The Decade Ahead: Ideas for BRICS Presidencies."

The level of interest was evident in the quickly filled rooms, highlighting the importance placed on understanding the shifting power dynamics and the role of the Global South within the international order.

The G20 discussion underscored the significant impact of four consecutive developing-country presidencies in reorienting the grouping towards economic cooperation and development, injecting new momentum and positioning it as a crucial bridge between the Global North and South.

The BRICS session amplified the Global South's growing significance as a collective force, recognising its expanded membership as a valuable platform for addressing shared development concerns despite internal strategic competition, driven by a commitment to human-centred progress and the potential to redefine global governance structures by tackling challenges from supply chains to climate change and digital innovation, while carefully navigating pitfalls to forge a distinct path in the evolving global landscape.

As someone deeply interested in New Zealand’s relationship internationally, the days filled with dialogue were my number one highlight. This was further strengthened by our visit to the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on New Zealand’s Outlook on Foreign Policy, followed by a key intervention from ICWA research faculty members on India’s relations with its neighbouring countries and the Indo-Pacific.

An unexpected dimension of the delegation for me was the role my somewhat rusty Hindi played. Initially, I considered my grasp of the language to be rather limited. However, as the trip progressed, particularly in navigating everyday situations and engaging in more personal interactions beyond the formal dialogue, I found myself relying on and expanding my Hindi in ways I hadn't anticipated.

Whether it was deciphering directions or ordering food, that "little" Hindi became a valuable bridge. It allowed for interactions on a more personal level, fostering a sense of connection that transcended the formal discussions and enriched my understanding of India beyond the official program.

I am thankful that this immersion forced me to actively utilize and expand my vocabulary and conversational skills, transforming what I perceived as a minor ability into a significant asset during our time in India.

The delegates had an hour-long conversation with Dr. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services

Leaving the bustling, politically charged atmosphere of Delhi for Chennai offered a distinct shift in pace and cultural flavour, immediately highlighting the diverse tapestry of India with its unique regional identities.

This transition from the northern heartland to the southern state underscored the vastness and multifaceted nature of India, revealing different perspectives and priorities within the nation.

Chennai offered a stark contrast to Delhi, immersing us in the vibrant dynamism of South India.

Our itinerary was packed, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region's economic and intellectual landscape. We engaged directly with the Government of Tamil Nadu, meeting with Minister PTR, and explored the industrial powerhouse of SIPCOT, visiting the Royal Enfield factory.

The Chennai stakeholder networking event at the Madras Boat Club fostered valuable connections, while our visit to Sri City showcased its impressive infrastructure as an international business hub.

We also had the opportunity to engage with the future of Indian talent through visits to the Krea University and IIIT campuses, both located in Sri City, gaining insights into their innovative approaches to education.

During their time in Chenai, the delegation visited 'integrated business city' Sri City where they visited, among other businesses and institutions, the E-Pack Durable Air Conditioner factory (pictured)

Throughout our time in Chennai, and indeed my entire India trip, I eagerly embraced the local culinary scene, with the delicious and comforting combination of Idli/Dosa with Sambar becoming my staple and much-loved breakfast.

In conclusion, this delegation to India was a deeply impactful experience, moving beyond surface-level understanding through direct engagement in Delhi and Chennai.

From the strategic dialogues of the Raisina Dialogue to the vibrant interactions in the South, this journey offered a transformative firsthand perspective.

As a first-generation Kiwi with Indian heritage, it was a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth, fostering a stronger connection to my roots and a deeper understanding of India's global significance.

The Foundation's Track II programme supports informal diplomacy with thinktanks in Asia on issues and challenges facing the region.

Our NextGen Track II programme offers opportunities for tertiary students and young professionals to kick start their future in foreign, trade and security policy through NextGen activity.