Debate over whether India should prioritize its global image or focus on pressing domestic concerns like poverty and farmer protection.
Relevance : GS 2(International Relations)
- Global Presence: India’s leadership at the G20 Summit has strengthened its diplomatic standing but sparked debates on whether resources should be allocated to global image-building or domestic needs.
- Survey Insights: A Lokniti-CSDS study (5,248 respondents across 50 cities) reveals mixed public opinion on priorities.
Public Opinion on Global vs. Domestic Priorities
- Poverty Alleviation vs. Global Image:
- 42% believe funds for city beautification (G20) should be redirected to poverty relief.
- 29% support prioritizing India’s global image through international events.
- Class Divide in Opinions:
- Lower-income groups: 36% favor spending on poverty alleviation.
- Upper-income groups: 39% support boosting India’s image, but 42% also back poverty relief.
Trade Liberalization & Public Concerns
- Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU:
- 37% support increasing exports for global market strength.
- 39% prefer restricting exports to focus on domestic markets.
- Agriculture & Import Policies:
- 64% favor limiting food grain imports to protect Indian farmers.
- Only 12% support increasing food imports at the cost of local farmers.
Policy Dilemma & Future Challenges
- The government aims to enhance global standing via trade agreements and summits.
- Public opinion reflects a demand for balancing foreign policy with domestic economic concerns.
- The upcoming FTA with the EU will test how well India can align global economic ambitions with public sentiment.
