Always Quote by Manmohan Singh
“I have always regarded nonalignment as a statement that India's policies - foreign policy - will be guided by what I describe as 'enlightened national interest.' That means we will make judgments on an independent basis with the sole concern being what is enlightened India's national interest.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Economic Policy Address, India, 2005
India will pursue foreign policy based on an enlightened national interest, making independent judgments focused on long‑term benefit for the nation.
In simple terms: India follows its own enlightened interests.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize independent, long‑term national goals.
Themes
foreign policy
national interest
independence
Mood
thoughtful
strategic
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- trade negotiations
- development aid
- geopolitical strategy
- investment decisions
Key Concepts
enlightened nationalism
strategic autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance enlightened interest with immediate needs?
- What safeguards ensure independence?
A Different Perspective
May conflict with short‑term economic pressures or allies' expectations.
