Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The 21st century is witnessing a significant shift in the global power balance, moving away from a unipolar world dominated by the United States towards a more multipolar order. India, with its growing economic and strategic influence, is actively shaping its vision for this new world order. This vision, rooted in its historical ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family), emphasizes inclusivity, equity, and sustainable development. India’s approach is not about seeking to replace existing structures but rather reforming them to better reflect contemporary realities and address the challenges of a rapidly changing world, particularly those faced by the Global South.
Core Principles Guiding India’s Vision
India’s vision for a new world order is underpinned by several core principles:
- Multilateralism: India firmly believes in a rule-based international order anchored in multilateral institutions like the United Nations. However, it advocates for reforms to make these institutions more representative and effective.
- Strategic Autonomy: India prioritizes its independent decision-making and avoids being drawn into rigid alliances or bloc politics. This allows it to pursue its national interests while contributing to global peace and stability.
- Inclusivity and Equity: India champions the interests of the Global South and advocates for a more equitable distribution of power and resources in the international system.
- Sustainable Development: Recognizing the interconnectedness of global challenges, India emphasizes the importance of sustainable development, climate action, and environmental protection.
- Respect for Sovereignty: India consistently upholds the principles of national sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.
Characteristics of India’s Desired New World Order
India envisions a new world order characterized by the following features:
- Reformed Multilateral Institutions: A key element is the reform of the UN Security Council to reflect the current geopolitical realities, including permanent representation for India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan. India has been a vocal advocate for this reform since the 1990s.
- A More Balanced Global Economic System: India seeks a fairer and more equitable global trading system that addresses the concerns of developing countries. This includes advocating for reforms in the World Trade Organization (WTO).
- Enhanced South-South Cooperation: India prioritizes strengthening cooperation with other developing countries through initiatives like the India-Africa Forum Summit and the India-Latin America-Caribbean Summit.
- Effective Climate Action: India emphasizes the need for collective action to address climate change, based on the principle of ‘Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities’ (CBDR-RC), as enshrined in the UNFCCC.
- Cybersecurity and Digital Governance: India advocates for a secure, open, and inclusive cyberspace governed by international norms and standards.
Mechanisms Employed by India
India is actively employing various mechanisms to realize its vision:
- Diplomacy and Dialogue: India engages in extensive diplomatic efforts to promote its views and build consensus on global issues.
- Participation in Multilateral Forums: India actively participates in various multilateral forums, including the G20, BRICS, SCO, and the UN, to shape the global agenda.
- Development Assistance: India provides development assistance to other developing countries, particularly in Africa and South Asia, to promote economic growth and sustainable development. The ‘India Development Assistance Programme’ (IDAP) is a key instrument.
- Capacity Building: India offers capacity-building programs to developing countries in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and education.
- Strategic Partnerships: India is forging strategic partnerships with like-minded countries to address common challenges and promote shared interests. Examples include the Quad (with the US, Japan, and Australia) and partnerships with European nations.
Challenges and Roadblocks
Despite its efforts, India faces several challenges in realizing its vision:
- Great Power Competition: The intensifying competition between the US and China poses a significant challenge to India’s efforts to promote a multipolar world order.
- Resistance to Reform: Resistance from vested interests within existing international institutions hinders efforts to reform them.
- Internal Constraints: India’s own economic and social challenges can limit its ability to project its influence on the global stage.
- Regional Instability: Instability in India’s neighborhood, particularly in Afghanistan and Pakistan, can divert its attention and resources.
- Rising Protectionism: The rise of protectionism and trade barriers can undermine India’s efforts to promote a fairer global trading system.
India’s vision is also complicated by the differing priorities of other major powers. Balancing its own interests with the need for global cooperation requires skillful diplomacy and a long-term strategic outlook.
Conclusion
India’s vision of a new world order is one of inclusivity, equity, and sustainable development, firmly rooted in multilateralism and strategic autonomy. While significant challenges remain, India’s growing economic and strategic influence, coupled with its commitment to the Global South, positions it as a key player in shaping the future of global governance. Successfully navigating the complexities of the 21st century will require India to continue to advocate for reforms in international institutions, strengthen its partnerships, and address its own internal challenges. The path forward necessitates a pragmatic yet principled approach, balancing national interests with the collective good.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.