Rohan Varma sat in his office, reviewing the final reports for the diplomatic meetings he was scheduled to attend that week.
Each meeting carried immense significance, as they were designed to solidify India's relationships with major global powers just months after achieving independence.
These were not just ceremonial meetings, they were essential for securing India's future in trade, economic development, and industrialization.
India's independence had come at a tremendous cost.
The country was recovering from the devastation of Partition, millions of people displaced, and the economy shaken by the loss of vital industrial regions like Lahore and Karachi.
Rohan knew that the next steps were critical. India needed allies, not just politically but economically, to stabilize and grow.
But his approach had to be careful, India was independent, and that independence had to be respected.
The first meeting was with Ambassador Thompson from the United States. Thompson entered with smile reflecting the U.S.'s eagerness to engage with India in the post-war world.
"Prime Minister Varma," Thompson greeted, shaking Rohan's hand, "the United States is very keen on building strong economic ties with India. We've been closely following your nation's journey to independence, and we believe there's a lot of potential for partnership."
Rohan smiled, appreciating the diplomat's directness
"Thank you, Ambassador. We see great value in a partnership with the United States as well, particularly in areas that can help us rebuild and modernize. But I must make it clear, India is focused on development that prioritizes self-reliance. Our goal is to build industries and infrastructure that can stand independently."
Thompson nodded. "That's understandable. We've been providing support to several countries in the form of economic aid and technical assistance. The United States would like to extend that support to India as well. We're particularly interested in collaborating on industrial and agricultural technologies. We can offer equipment, training, and expertise that will help boost your productivity."
Rohan appreciated the offer but remained cautious. "India is in need of technological advancements, especially in agriculture and industry, but we must ensure that any agreements we make respect our sovereignty. Our focus right now is on building up our textile, steel, and manufacturing sectors, as well as improving agricultural productivity. We'd be happy to explore partnerships that help us achieve those goals."
Thompson leaned forward, sensing an opportunity. "We have a lot of expertise in those areas, especially with post-war industrial equipment and techniques. We're ready to assist with investments and infrastructure development that could accelerate your plans."
Rohan nodded thoughtfully. "We'll be open to those discussions, Ambassador, but let's ensure that any agreements align with our long-term goal of self-reliance. We need to create jobs here, develop our own industries, and ensure that India benefits directly from these partnerships."
Thompson smiled, sensing progress. "Of course, Prime Minister. We'll ensure that our proposals support India's domestic goals. I look forward to seeing how we can work together."
Later in the day, Rohan sat down with Comrade Ivanov from the Soviet Union.
Unlike the Americans, the Soviets had a different approach to economic collaboration, often emphasizing state-controlled projects and long-term industrial agreements.
"Prime Minister Varma," Ivanov began, "the Soviet Union has always admired India's fight for independence. We believe that our nations can work together to build a strong economic foundation, especially in areas like heavy industry and infrastructure."
Rohan listened carefully.
The Soviets were known for their large-scale industrial projects, and India could benefit from that expertise, but Rohan knew he had to walk carefully.
"Thank you, Comrade Ivanov. We are indeed in need of industrial growth. India's economy is heavily agricultural, but we're looking to expand our steel and manufacturing sectors."
Ivanov nodded. "The Soviet Union can assist with that. We've developed advanced techniques for steel production, and our experience in building infrastructure, from railways to power plants, could be of great use to India."
Rohan appreciated the practicality of the offer. "Steel production is a priority for us. Much of our steel came from regions now lost due to Partition. We need to build new steel plants in places like Bhilai and Rourkela. But we want to ensure that these projects are not just imports of Soviet expertise, they must help us develop our own capabilities and workforce."
Ivanov's expression softened slightly. "That's understandable, Prime Minister. We believe in mutual cooperation, where both nations benefit. The Soviet Union is prepared to assist in setting up steel plants, power stations, and even textile mills. Our engineers can train Indian workers to ensure that your industries grow independently."
Rohan nodded, appreciating the balanced approach. "That's precisely what we're looking for collaboration that builds India's capacity, not dependence."
Ivanov smiled, pleased with the progress. "We can certainly make that happen, Prime Minister. We'll prepare detailed proposals for industrial cooperation. Together, we can build a strong industrial base for India."
The British delegation entered next, led by a senior diplomat representing the UK government.
Despite the recent end of British rule, Rohan knew that India's relationship with Britain couldn't be severed entirely.
There were still economic ties that needed to be maintained, particularly with trade.
"Prime Minister Varma," the British diplomat began, "the United Kingdom recognizes the importance of a strong, stable India. We're eager to maintain our trading relationship, particularly in industries like textiles and steel. Our industries are recovering, and India remains one of our most important partners."
Rohan knew Britain was struggling to recover from the war, and they were keen to retain access to Indian markets. "Thank you," Rohan replied, his tone measured.
"India, too, sees value in maintaining trade relations with the UK, but we must ensure that the terms are mutually beneficial. We are focused on building up our domestic industries particularly in textiles, where we've lost critical infrastructure due to Partition thanks you guys"
The British diplomat nodded, though Rohan could sense the tension after his last line
"We understand, Prime Minister. Britain is committed to helping India rebuild. We can offer financial and technical support to modernize your textile mills and steel production. The exchange of raw materials between our nations has always been vital, and we'd like to continue that tradition."
Rohan's tone sharpened slightly. "We will engage in trade, but India will no longer be just a supplier of raw materials. We need to industrialize, to process our own cotton, to manufacture our own steel. Our industries must grow here, and the jobs must be created here."
The British diplomat nodded, understanding India's stance. "We respect your position, Prime Minister. Let's continue our discussions on how we can support India's industrial goals while maintaining a strong trading partnership.
Finally, Rohan met with the French delegation, led by Ambassador Lacroix.
France, recovering from the war and eager to rebuild its influence, was keen on establishing ties with newly independent nations like India.
"Prime Minister Varma," Lacroix began, "France is excited about the prospect of deeper cooperation with India. We see great opportunities for collaboration, especially in science, technology, and infrastructure."
Rohan smiled, appreciating the enthusiasm. "Thank you, Ambassador. India is indeed looking for partnerships that can help us modernize, particularly in areas like infrastructure and technology."
Lacroix nodded. "France has extensive expertise in building railways, power plants, and communication networks. We could share that expertise with India to help you build the modern infrastructure needed for industrial growth."
Rohan's interest piqued. "Infrastructure is a priority for us. We're working to rebuild the railways and expand electrification, particularly in rural areas. We want to ensure that every part of India benefits from the progress we make."
Lacroix smiled. "France can certainly assist with that. We're also looking at ways to collaborate on education and scientific research. France's universities and research institutions are leaders in fields like engineering and medicine, and we'd be happy to offer exchange programs and training opportunities for Indian students."
Rohan nodded, appreciating the offer. "That's exactly the kind of partnership we need collaboration that helps us build our own capacity. India's future depends on the education and training of our people."
As the day came to a close, Rohan sat back in his office.
Each country had something to offer, and each had its own agenda.
But his vision for India was clear, self-reliance, industrial growth, and a strong, independent nation on the global stage.