Costs of war

In recent years, a novel form of diplomatic courtesy – known as animal diplomacy – has emerged as a distinctive genre of soft power. This practice connects societies and embodies our underlying civilizational values and legacy, directly linked to our interactions with animals. As nations engage in the exchange of rare or culturally significant species as gestures of goodwill, this new diplomatic language fosters international cooperation while raising awareness about vital conservation efforts and biodiversity

- GOURI SANKAR NAG ARPAN BHATTACHARYA The writers are, respectively, Professor and Head, Department of Political Science, S-K-B University, Purulia, and Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Ramananda College, Bankura

In our ever-evolving global landscape, society, culture, and civilization extend beyond anthropocentric perspectives, encompassing a broader organic framework that includes both flora and fauna and synanthrope. This interconnectedness demonstrates our vital zoonotic connections. Historically, sustainability was woven into the fabric of pre-modern traditions, where animals played essential roles in human life. However, the rise of the Westphalian modern state system has fragmented and interrupted this relationship, leading to a profound disconnection from these eternal traditions.

As humanity became divided into smaller geopolitical units, our relationship with animals – the very symbols of our cultural identity and healthy ecology – began to fade. This modernist focus on human rights has overshadowed the essential connections we once celebrated, contributing to a significant erosion of broader ecological wisdom and traditional knowledge systems that historically guided sustainable practices. The ramifications of this disconnect extend beyond our bond with nature; they have exacerbated the global environmental crisis we now face.

To navigate out of this predicament, it is imperative to recognize and revive our ancient bonds with animals and ecosystems. Such endeavors are crucial for fostering a more holistic and sustainable approach to human development and environmental conservation.

Radhakamal Mukherjee was an important figure in Indian philosophy and thought, and his ideas connect deeply with India's soft power, especially through nature. He believed that nature is not just a backdrop for human life but a vital part of our identity and culture. India's rich natural beauty, from the Himalayas to the rivers and forests, reflects a way of life that values harmony and respect for the environment. This connection invites people from all over the world to appreciate India's culture and traditions, which are often inspired by the natural world.