What is meant by Gujral doctrine? Does it have any relevance today? Discuss. (UPSC 2013)

Gujral Doctrine was framed by Inder Kumar Gujral in 1996 as a policy for India’s immediate neighbours in South Asia. It urged India, as the larger power, to act with restraint, generosity and trust rather than dominance.

Key principles

• Non-reciprocity towards smaller neighbours.
• No use of territory against another state’s interest.
• Non-interference in internal affairs.
• Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Peaceful bilateral settlement of disputes.

Relevance today

• It still guides the spirit of Neighbourhood First, regional connectivity and humanitarian assistance.
• India’s support to Sri Lanka, Maldives and Nepal shows that goodwill and asymmetric cooperation remain useful.
• However, today’s environment is tougher due to terrorism, China’s growing presence and border security concerns.
• With Pakistan, normal dialogue is limited by cross-border terrorism, so pure non-reciprocity is not enough.

Thus, the doctrine remains relevant as a moral and diplomatic framework, but it must be blended with realism, security and mutual benefit.