Shashi Tharoor Praises PM Modi’s ‘Vaccine Diplomacy’ as Global Leadership Triumph
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has praised the Narendra Modi government’s ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative during the Covid-19 pandemic, calling it a “powerful example of international leadership” in a new column titled Covid’s Silver Lining for India. Highlighting India’s role in supplying vaccines to over 100 countries, Tharoor underscored how the effort elevated the nation’s global stature amid a worldwide crisis.
In his column, Tharoor commended India’s export of Covishield and Covaxin vaccines, noting, “India emerged as a key player in global health diplomacy, showcasing its capacity to address global challenges.” He pointed out that unlike more affluent nations, India stepped up during the pandemic’s darkest days.
“India’s vaccine shipments enhanced our country’s global image,” he wrote, adding that the move was widely appreciated internationally.
While not naming PM Modi directly, Tharoor credited the leadership behind the initiative, stating, “India’s vaccine diplomacy embodied and contributed to the very spirit of its soft power.” He highlighted how it reflected values of compassion and cooperation, strengthening diplomatic ties worldwide.
ALSO READ | Shashi Tharoor Admits ‘Egg on Face’ Over India’s Ukraine War Stance
The effort, he noted, built goodwill and positioned India as a responsible global leader during an unprecedented health crisis.
This isn’t Tharoor’s first instance of applauding Modi’s policies. Just days ago, he endorsed the PM’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, saying, “Peace cannot be found on the battlefield. It will have to require some negotiation.” He expressed optimism about early peace talks, though he cautioned it was premature to predict outcomes.
Tharoor also admitted to misjudging India’s initial position on the conflict, conceding it had positioned the country to influence lasting peace.
The BJP has capitalized on Tharoor’s praise, taking jabs at Congress over perceived internal discord. Amid speculation of a rift within the party—fueled by his commendation of both Modi and Kerala’s LDF government—Tharoor clarified his stance, saying, “I am available for the party, but I have options if my services aren’t required.”
He dismissed rumors of switching parties, asserting, “I don’t believe in jumping ships even if I have differences of opinion.”
Under the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ program, launched in 2021, India supplied millions of vaccine doses to nations in need, earning accolades from global leaders and organizations. The initiative not only aided poorer countries but also reinforced India’s role as a pharmaceutical powerhouse.
Tharoor’s column frames this as a silver lining to the Covid-19 crisis, showcasing India’s ability to lead with responsibility.
Tharoor’s latest praise may stir further political reactions, with the BJP likely to continue highlighting Congress’s internal dynamics. As India’s global influence grows, the legacy of its vaccine diplomacy remains a point of discussion, potentially shaping future foreign policy narratives.
Attention now turns to how Tharoor navigates his party role amid these endorsements, with updates expected on any Congress response.
