Vice-President calls for greater strategic cooperation among Global South nations to address emerging security and developmental challenges
Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan addressed the 4th edition of the International Strategic Engagement Programme (IN-STEP) at Uprashtrapati Bhawan, calling for greater strategic cooperation among Global South nations. The programme brings together 38 delegates, including 25 international delegates from 22 developing countries, to discuss emerging security and developmental challenges. The Vice-President emphasized the need for collective responses to issues such as technology, artificial intelligence, maritime security, and climate change.
Why It Matters
This is relevant for competitive exams covering current national affairs, international relations, and government initiatives involving India's engagement with the Global South and strategic programs like IN-STEP.
In Simple Words
Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan addressed the fourth edition of the International Strategic Engagement Programme (IN-STEP) at Uprashtrapati Bhawan. He stressed the importance of strategic cooperation, sustained international dialogue, and mutual learning among Global South nations to tackle modern challenges.
The programme features 38 participants, including 25 international delegates from 22 developing countries. The Vice-President highlighted key challenges like technology, artificial intelligence, cyber security, climate change, and corruption, while underscoring principles such as 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and India's commitment to shared global development.
Key Points
- Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan addressed the 4th edition of the International Strategic Engagement Programme (IN-STEP) at Uprashtrapati Bhawan.
- IN-STEP is jointly organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Defence, and National Security Council Secretariat at the National Defence College.
- The 4th edition includes 38 delegates, with 25 international delegates from 22 developing countries of the Global South.
- Participating countries include Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Mongolia, Nepal, Mauritius, Maldives, Oman, Guyana, Chile, Argentina, the Philippines, Thailand, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, Myanmar, Uzbekistan, and Brazil.
- IN-STEP is a two-week programme providing a platform for senior professionals to exchange perspectives on strategic, security, and developmental issues.
- Previous editions of IN-STEP were held in March 2024, October 2024, and October-November 2025.
- The Vice-President outlined three principles for the initiative: 'Think globally, engage strategically, and act in cohesion.'
- India's past assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic was highlighted through the Vaccine Maitri initiative.
Exam Angle
𝕏 Official Update
A. 25 international delegates from 22 countries
Source: Press Information Bureau