Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India’s foreign policy has undergone a significant transformation since its independence, evolving from non-alignment to a more proactive and assertive role in global affairs. Currently, a key objective is the shaping of a new world order, reflecting a multipolar world based on principles of equity, inclusivity, and reformed multilateralism. This vision stems from India’s growing economic and strategic capabilities, coupled with its dissatisfaction with the existing international system dominated by a few powers. Recent developments like the G20 presidency (2023) and increased engagement with the Global South demonstrate India’s commitment to this objective, aiming to create a more representative and just global architecture.
Policy Initiatives Towards a New World Order
India has actively pursued several policy initiatives to promote its vision of a new world order:
- BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa): Established in 2009, BRICS serves as a platform for cooperation among emerging economies, advocating for reforms in international financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank. India has been a key proponent of the New Development Bank (NDB) established by BRICS, offering an alternative to Western-dominated lending institutions.
- Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO): India’s full membership in the SCO (2017) provides a crucial platform for regional security cooperation, particularly in addressing terrorism and extremism. It also enhances India’s connectivity initiatives in Central Asia.
- Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue): The Quad (US, India, Japan, Australia) is a strategic grouping aimed at ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region. While primarily focused on security, the Quad also promotes cooperation in areas like infrastructure, technology, and climate change, countering China’s growing influence.
- ‘Neighborhood First’ Policy: This policy prioritizes strengthening relationships with neighboring countries (SAARC, BIMSTEC) to foster regional stability and economic integration. It aims to create a conducive environment for India’s broader foreign policy objectives.
- Voice of the Global South Summit (2023): India hosted this virtual summit, bringing together countries from the Global South to articulate their concerns and priorities on issues like climate change, debt distress, and food security. This initiative demonstrates India’s leadership in representing the interests of developing nations.
- G20 Presidency (2023): India’s G20 presidency focused on themes of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (One Earth, One Family, One Future), advocating for inclusive growth, digital transformation, and climate finance.
Challenges Faced by India
Despite its proactive efforts, India faces several challenges in realizing its vision of a new world order:
- China’s Rise: China’s growing economic and military power poses a significant challenge to India’s aspirations. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its assertive foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific region create strategic competition.
- Great Power Competition: The intensifying rivalry between the US and China creates a complex geopolitical landscape, requiring India to navigate its relationships carefully. Maintaining strategic autonomy while engaging with both powers is a key challenge.
- Internal Constraints: India’s economic development, infrastructure deficits, and bureaucratic inefficiencies limit its ability to project power and influence on the global stage.
- Multilateral Dysfunction: The UN Security Council remains paralyzed by veto power dynamics, hindering effective responses to global challenges. Reforming the UNSC to reflect contemporary realities is a long-term challenge.
- Regional Instability: Conflicts and instability in neighboring regions (Afghanistan, Myanmar) can spill over into India, posing security challenges and diverting resources.
- Resource limitations: India's foreign aid and investment capacity is limited compared to major powers, hindering its ability to offer substantial assistance to developing countries.
| Initiative | Objective | Challenge |
|---|---|---|
| BRICS | Reform of global financial institutions | Internal divisions among members; China’s dominance |
| Quad | Countering China’s influence in Indo-Pacific | Concerns about escalating tensions; differing priorities |
| G20 Presidency | Inclusive growth & climate finance | Achieving consensus among diverse members |
Conclusion
India’s vision of a new world order, rooted in multipolarity and reformed multilateralism, is gaining traction on the global stage. Through initiatives like BRICS, SCO, Quad, and its engagement with the Global South, India is actively shaping the international agenda. However, challenges posed by China’s rise, great power competition, and internal constraints require a pragmatic and nuanced approach. India must continue to strengthen its economic and military capabilities, invest in diplomacy, and advocate for a more equitable and inclusive global order to effectively realize its foreign policy objectives.
Answer Length
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