At Ideas of India Summit 2026, leading diplomats engaged in a sharp and timely discussion titled “Uneasy Across Borders: Neighbours on Fire,” addressing India’s complex regional challenges. The panel featured Ranjit Rae, Ashok K. Kantha, and Veena Sikri, who examined how India should respond to geopolitical instability in its neighbourhood. The diplomats stressed that as India aims to become a developed nation by 2047, strengthening ties with neighbouring countries is not optional but essential. Ashok K. Kantha highlighted that India must move in step with its neighbours, ensuring mutual growth and shared strategic interests. The panel underscored that regional cooperation, economic integration, and diplomatic sensitivity are key to maintaining stability in South Asia. With borders facing political volatility and external influence from global powers, the discussion emphasized proactive engagement, development partnerships, and consistent dialogue. The experts agreed that India’s rise as a global power will depend significantly on peaceful, stable, and cooperative relations within its immediate neighbourhood. The session reinforced that strong neighbourhood diplomacy is central to India’s long-term strategic and economic ambitions.
