External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday said India must become the “go-to” option in any regional crisis, emphasizing the country’s growing role as a stabilizing power in South Asia and beyond.

Speaking at the inaugural Aravalli Summit 2025 at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Jaishankar underlined that realism, national capability, and strong defense infrastructure are crucial for safeguarding India’s interests. He noted that “goodwill towards neighbors cannot presume reciprocity” and that policy adjustments must reflect global shifts.

The minister highlighted the success of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, stressing that “India has to underwrite the infrastructure for cooperation if it is to be proofed against political volatility.”

Outlining the country’s growing global engagement, Jaishankar said India has emerged as a “First Responder” and a reliable development partner with projects in 78 nations. He pointed to initiatives such as Vaccine Maitri, Voice of the Global South Summits, and participation in platforms like Quad, BRICS, SCO, and I2U2 as examples of India’s multi-alignment strategy.

He also emphasized India’s maritime priorities under SAGAR and MAHASAGAR, and connectivity projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), North-South Transport Corridor, and Trilateral Highway.

Highlighting India’s global ideas, Jaishankar mentioned initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and Global Biofuel Alliance, adding that India’s goal of becoming a “leading power” requires preparation over generations.

“India must operate in a multipolar world while preparing to emerge as a pole itself,” he said, calling for sustained engagement even with distant regions such as the Nordics, West Africa, and the Pacific Islands.