Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India’s foreign policy in the 21st century represents a significant departure from its earlier emphasis on non-alignment, while retaining core principles. The end of the Cold War, India’s economic liberalization in 1991, and the rise of China have fundamentally reshaped the geopolitical landscape, necessitating a more pragmatic and multi-faceted approach. Contemporary Indian foreign policy is characterized by a pursuit of national interests within a framework of strategic autonomy, seeking to balance relationships with major powers while safeguarding its sovereignty and promoting regional stability. This has manifested in increased engagement with the US, Russia, China, and the EU, alongside a renewed focus on its immediate neighborhood.
Key Features of India’s Foreign Policy in the 21st Century
India’s foreign policy in the 21st century can be understood through several key features:
1. Strategic Autonomy & Multi-Alignment
- Strategic Autonomy: India continues to prioritize independent decision-making and avoids formal alliances, maintaining the flexibility to pursue its national interests. This is a continuation of the non-aligned movement’s spirit, adapted to the contemporary context.
- Multi-Alignment: Unlike strict non-alignment, India actively cultivates strategic partnerships with multiple countries – the US (through the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement 2008), Russia (long-standing defense cooperation), China (economic engagement despite border disputes), and the EU (trade and development cooperation).
2. Neighborhood First Policy
- Priority to South Asia: Recognizing the importance of regional stability, India prioritizes relations with its neighbors. This includes initiatives like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), though its effectiveness has been limited.
- Focus on Connectivity: Projects like the India-Nepal Petroleum Pipeline (2019) and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (Myanmar) aim to enhance connectivity and economic integration with neighboring countries.
- Addressing Concerns: India actively works to address concerns of smaller neighbors, providing assistance and capacity building. However, challenges remain in managing relations with Pakistan and maintaining stability in Afghanistan.
3. Economic Diplomacy
- Trade & Investment: Promoting trade and attracting foreign investment are central to India’s foreign policy. The ‘Look East’ (later ‘Act East’) Policy (1991) aimed to strengthen economic ties with Southeast Asia.
- Digital Diplomacy: Utilizing digital platforms to promote India’s economic interests and engage with foreign audiences.
- Diaspora Engagement: Leveraging the Indian diaspora for economic and diplomatic gains.
4. Growing Role in Multilateral Forums
- United Nations: India actively participates in UN peacekeeping operations and advocates for reforms in the UN Security Council, seeking a permanent seat.
- G20: India’s membership in the G20 provides a platform to address global economic challenges and promote its interests. India hosted the G20 summit in 2023.
- BRICS: India is a founding member of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), seeking to promote South-South cooperation and a multipolar world order.
- Indo-Pacific Focus: India is a key player in the Indo-Pacific region, promoting a rules-based order and maritime security through initiatives like the Quad (India, US, Japan, Australia).
5. Security Concerns & Counter-Terrorism
- Border Management: Strengthening border security and managing disputes with neighboring countries, particularly China and Pakistan.
- Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Collaborating with international partners to combat terrorism and extremism.
- Maritime Security: Protecting India’s maritime interests and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Indian Ocean region.
| Policy/Initiative | Year | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement | 2008 | Strengthen strategic partnership with the US and secure access to nuclear technology. |
| Act East Policy | 1991 (evolved) | Enhance economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia. |
| Neighborhood First Policy | 2014 (articulated) | Prioritize relations with neighboring countries. |
Conclusion
India’s foreign policy in the 21st century is a complex interplay of continuity and change. While retaining the core principle of strategic autonomy, India has embraced multi-alignment and actively engaged with the world on economic, political, and security fronts. The challenges of a rising China, regional instability, and global terrorism necessitate a proactive and adaptable foreign policy. India’s future role in the international system will depend on its ability to navigate these challenges and leverage its growing economic and political influence to promote a stable and prosperous world order.
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.