Nationhood Emerges from Shared History and Future Vision, Ajit Doval Explains

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval emphasised the importance of a shared sense of history and vision for the future in constituting a nationhood. He made these remarks during the release of an 11-volume series on the history of ancient India and its accomplishments. Doval highlighted India's civilisation of antiquity and continuity, spanning thousands of years, and lamented that the narrative often begins with Alexander.The series, titled "History of Ancient India," is published by Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) and Aryan Books. It contains scholarly papers contributed by numerous scholars, covering a wide array of fields. Doval shared that the project's inception aimed to contribute to a new sense of identity and pride for India's citizens and future generations.Doval emphasised the connection between self-image, identity, and perception of history. He described the series as a means to an end, with the ultimate objective being to build a nation based on a common heritage, pride in ancestry and past achievements, and a vision for the future.The National Security Advisor praised the research papers' quality and extensive references. He also highlighted India's ancientness, continuity, and vast expanse as aspects that nobody questions. Doval criticised the overemphasis on Alexander's connection with India, calling it a non-event and a small event in history.Doval concluded by stating that the scholars' quotes and inferences in this work are based on solid, scientific foundations. The series aims to be authentic rather than propaganda material. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been presented with this work, which now holds a prominent place in his library. The prime minister suggested donating these volumes to libraries and sending them to various western and eastern universities.