A comprehensive analysis of China's efforts to build and utilize soft power as a distinctive part of its foreign policy This volume examines the evolution and application of China's soft power with particular focus on various strategic initiatives such as cultural and public diplomacy, Confucius institutes, development assistance and infrastructure building, media collaborations and healthcare diplomacy. This is to emphasize cooperation and partnerships while advancing the theory of harmonious development through these initiatives across the world. Employing an alternative perspective, it analyses the strategic benefits and limitations of China's soft power policies, and compares them with similar policies by India for identifying the differences and applications.