India’s Global Narrative Strategy: A New Team Takes Shape
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated the formation of a new strategic team — an “India Team” — not for cricket or diplomacy in the traditional sense, but for a global narrative warfare. In an era where the battle of perceptions often supersedes actual conflicts, controlling the global narrative has become more critical than ever.
Even though the physical hostilities between India and Pakistan may have paused, a more subtle but powerful war is underway: the war of narratives. The question no longer revolves solely around who fired the first missile but rather, whose version of events the world believes.
Despite being the world’s largest democracy, India finds itself at a disadvantage. Western media outlets like The New York Times and CNN often provide platforms to Pakistani writers and commentators without rigorous fact-checking or evidence. These articles sometimes echo unverified claims that harm India’s global standing.
In response, PM Modi has assembled a multi-party delegation comprising prominent Members of Parliament from different political backgrounds. The initiative will be led by Shashi Tharoor, a respected former External Affairs Minister and current MP, known globally for his eloquence and diplomatic experience. He has confirmed his role, stating that he is “honored by the invitation of the Government of India to lead” this initiative.
This delegation includes figures like Ravi Shankar Prasad, Sanjay Kumar Jha, Baijayant Panda, Kanimozhi, Supriya Sule, and Asaduddin Owaisi — who is expected to travel to Western Europe as part of the strategy to expose falsehoods being spread about India. These leaders will represent India’s viewpoint in major world capitals, offering a unified voice in the global information sphere.
The Problem with Misinformation
India faces a significant challenge from international outlets that often pick up and amplify Pakistani propaganda. Media from China (e.g., Global Times) and Turkey (e.g., TRT World) regularly side with Pakistan, and their content remains accessible within India despite previous announcements of bans — which appear to have been temporary or ineffective.
For instance, a tweet by Global Times on May 10 claimed that multiple Indian targets, including a BrahMos missile storage facility, were destroyed — a claim entirely unsupported by any satellite evidence or independent verification.
Such claims, when repeated by “credible” international media, muddy the waters and leave global audiences confused about who is right or wrong. When Russia invaded Ukraine, a similar narrative war played out between the U.S. and Russia, but the West was largely successful in framing its version of the story. India, however, struggles to compete in this domain due to the “first-to-lie” strategy deployed effectively by Pakistan and its allies.
First to Lie: The New Warfare Doctrine
U.S. military strategist John Spencer recently noted that Pakistan’s strategic doctrine includes the “First to Lie” approach — meaning, they aim to be the first to get a version of events, however false, into international media. And unfortunately, this strategy often works. Major media houses worldwide run with early reports, even when these are not backed by solid evidence.
An example is a controversial article published by France 24 suggesting that Chinese weapons performed exceptionally well in recent India-Pakistan skirmishes. This article was based entirely on statements by Pakistani officials, without any independent verification or evidence. The headline alone — which most readers rely on — created an impression that favored the Chinese and Pakistani military narrative.
Even though India provided satellite images and on-ground proof about the limited and precise nature of its operations, the global media often ignored these facts in favor of more sensational narratives pushed by other countries.
Why India’s Response Matters
This is why the formation of a cross-party delegation is significant. It’s not just about international diplomacy; it’s about shaping global public opinion. India’s MPs are expected to proactively engage with think tanks, foreign governments, media houses, and diaspora communities to clarify India’s stance and counter disinformation effectively.
Shashi Tharoor’s inclusion is particularly important. His reputation in international forums and command over global issues can help balance the misinformation flooding Western narratives.
The Road Ahead
The Indian government must now consider further steps to tackle the growing challenge of information warfare. It includes:
- Blocking known propaganda sources like Global Times and TRT World from being accessible within India.
- Rapid response teams that immediately counter false narratives with facts, visuals, and data.
- Media literacy campaigns to educate citizens on identifying disinformation.
- Strong coordination between ministries and embassies to maintain a consistent and factual international voice.
If India wants to maintain its position on the world stage — not just economically or militarily, but morally and ideologically — then its global narrative must be consistent, assertive, and trustworthy.
In the age of digital warfare, truth is not enough. It must be timely, well-articulated, and widely disseminated.