India’s Foreign Policy: Determinants, Diplomacy, and Global Role

Posted on Sep 28, 2025 in Social sciences

Determinants of India’s Post-Independence Foreign Policy

India’s foreign policy post-1947 has been shaped by its historical experience, developmental needs, strategic concerns, and ideological commitments. As a newly independent state emerging from colonial rule, India’s priorities were sovereignty, territorial integrity, economic development, and global recognition.

  • Historical Legacy and Civilizational Values: Ancient Indian philosophies of peace, coexistence, and universal brotherhood (e.g., Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam) influenced leaders like Nehru and Gandhi. India’s freedom struggle also imbued the foreign policy with a strong anti-colonial and non-imperialist stance.
  • Geopolitical Realities: Surrounded by adversaries like China and Pakistan, India had to navigate security threats. The partition of India, the Kashmir issue, and wars with neighbors significantly shaped a defensive and sovereignty-conscious outlook.
  • Economic Imperatives: India prioritized self-reliance and development, initially following a non-aligned socialist model and later shifting to liberalization and economic diplomacy post-1991. India’s need for foreign aid, technology, energy, and investment guided its strategic alignments and trade partnerships.
  • Non-Alignment and Multilateralism: India avoided joining Cold War blocs and emerged as a leader of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), advocating peaceful coexistence and strategic autonomy. Multilateral engagements through the UN, NAM, WTO, and G20 reflected India’s support for a rule-based international order.
  • Domestic Political Ideologies: Ideals like democracy, pluralism, and secularism influenced India’s global identity as a moral and principled actor. These ideals drove India’s support for decolonization, human rights, and global equity.

In summary, India’s foreign policy post-independence was a product of internal needs and external compulsions—driven by the pursuit of strategic autonomy, economic development, global justice, and peaceful coexistence in a world of shifting power dynamics.

Non-Alignment in the Post-Cold War Era

The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), conceptualized during the Cold War, aimed to maintain independence from both the Western (U.S.-led) and Eastern (Soviet-led) blocs. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru championed this strategy to preserve India’s strategic autonomy. However, in the post-Cold War era, when bipolarity ended with the disintegration of the Soviet Union, questions arose about the continued relevance of non-alignment.

Arguments for Diminished Relevance

In a unipolar or multipolar world, traditional non-alignment has lost some of its core relevance. The ideological rivalry that defined Cold War politics is no longer the same. Globalization, regionalism, and interdependence have altered international alignments, pushing India to develop issue-based alliances rather than maintaining strict equidistance from power blocs. For example, India’s growing ties with the United States (post-2005 Civil Nuclear Deal, QUAD participation) suggest a tilt towards strategic convergence with Western democracies. Furthermore, India’s economic liberalization post-1991 required pragmatic diplomacy, moving beyond traditional NAM ideals.

Arguments Against Diminished Relevance

Despite the evolving global order, non-alignment’s foundational principle—strategic autonomy—remains relevant. India continues to resist joining military alliances and chooses partnerships based on its national interests. Its position on the Russia-Ukraine war and its balanced stance on U.S.-China rivalry show India’s preference for independent decision-making. India also continues to play a leadership role in the Global South, advocating for developing countries’ interests, particularly on issues like trade justice, climate change, and equitable vaccine distribution.

Modern Non-Alignment: Strategic Autonomy

India’s foreign policy today can be termed as “multi-alignment” or “strategic autonomy”, rather than traditional non-alignment. India engages with multiple powers—U.S., Russia, China, EU, Japan—without becoming beholden to any. The core ethos of NAM lives on in this flexible diplomacy.

Conclusion: While the Cold War-era non-alignment in its original form may have diminished in importance, its principles remain highly relevant. India’s foreign policy has adapted rather than abandoned non-alignment.

UN Security Council and India’s Reform Stand

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is the most powerful organ of the UN, responsible for maintaining international peace and security. However, its structure, established in 1945, is increasingly criticized for not reflecting the realities of contemporary global politics.

The UNSC has five permanent members (P5)—the U.S., U.K., France, Russia, and China—each wielding veto power. This composition mirrors the post-World War II power structure, not today’s geopolitical balance. Emerging powers like India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan remain excluded despite their economic and strategic significance.

India’s Argument for Reform

India has long advocated for reforms in the UNSC to make it more representative, democratic, and effective. India argues that the current structure is undemocratic, with overrepresentation of the West and underrepresentation of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. As the world’s most populous democracy and a rapidly growing economy, India asserts its rightful claim to a permanent seat.

India’s contributions to UN peacekeeping, its responsible nuclear behavior, and leadership in climate and global governance further strengthen its case. India also highlights the inefficiency and inaction of the UNSC in addressing recent crises (e.g., Syria, Ukraine), which undermines its credibility.

Global Support and Challenges

India’s demand for reforms is supported by countries like Japan, Germany, and Brazil (the G4 nations), as well as many African and Caribbean states. However, reform efforts face resistance from current P5 members, especially China, which is reluctant to support India’s inclusion.

India’s Vision for a Reformed UNSC

India envisions a restructured UNSC that includes new permanent members, with or without veto powers, and increased non-permanent seats. It believes that such a transformation will make the Council more responsive to contemporary global issues like climate change, pandemics, and terrorism.

Conclusion: The UNSC’s outdated structure does not represent the shifting balance of global power. India’s stand on Security Council reform is rooted in principles of fairness, inclusivity, and legitimacy. Without such reforms, the UN risks losing its relevance in the 21st century.

India–Russia Strategic Relations

India and Russia share a deep-rooted relationship, dating back to the Cold War era when the Soviet Union was India’s key ally. In recent years, this partnership has evolved to adapt to shifting international dynamics, including India’s growing ties with the U.S. and Russia’s closer relationship with China.

Defence Cooperation

Defence remains the cornerstone of India–Russia ties. India continues to source about 60% of its military hardware from Russia, including the S-400 missile system, BrahMos missiles, and submarines. Joint military exercises such as INDRA further solidify this strategic link.

Nuclear and Energy Ties

Russia has assisted India in developing its nuclear energy capabilities, including the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant. It is also a major supplier of oil and gas, which is crucial for India’s energy security—especially significant amidst Western sanctions on Russia post-Ukraine war.

Geopolitical Coordination

India and Russia cooperate in multilateral forums such as BRICS, the SCO, and the G20. Russia supports India’s aspiration for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Despite global tensions, both nations maintain diplomatic alignment on issues like multipolarity and opposition to Western hegemony.

Recent Challenges

Russia’s proximity to China, particularly after the Ukraine conflict, raises concerns for India. India’s strategic ties with the U.S. and QUAD partners have also introduced balancing pressures. However, India has continued its policy of strategic autonomy, maintaining strong ties with both Moscow and Washington.

Conclusion: India–Russia relations remain strategically significant, though they now operate in a more complex global landscape. Both nations are recalibrating their partnership to accommodate new geopolitical realities while preserving their historic trust and defense cooperation.

India–China Economic Relations and Bilateral Dynamics

Historically, India and China shared ancient trade and cultural ties, but modern relations have been marred by the 1962 war and recurring border tensions. Despite political differences, economic cooperation grew rapidly in the 21st century.

Economic Engagement

China became India’s largest trading partner by the late 2000s. Bilateral trade exceeded $100 billion, dominated by Chinese exports like electronics, machinery, and chemicals. India also attracted Chinese investments in sectors like telecom, technology, and infrastructure.

Strategic Shift Post-Doklam and Galwan

Border standoffs—especially in Doklam (2017) and Galwan Valley (2020)—significantly altered the tone of the relationship. India imposed restrictions on Chinese apps and companies, citing national security. Calls for economic decoupling gained momentum, and strategic trust eroded.

Critical Dependencies

Despite tensions, India remains dependent on China for critical imports, especially in pharmaceuticals and electronics. Trade deficit concerns persist, as India exports relatively less to China. Thus, while political ties have deteriorated, economic interdependence continues.

Strategic Rivalry

The India–China relationship today is marked by competition and cooperation. While economic ties are maintained, political mistrust—amplified by China’s aggressive posturing in the Indo-Pacific and its support to Pakistan—makes the relationship adversarial.

Conclusion: India–China ties have undergone a significant transformation. Economic cooperation remains substantial but is now increasingly shaped by strategic mistrust and national security concerns. The bilateral relationship is best described as a “complex interdependence” with both cooperation and competition.

Cross-Border Terrorism in India–Pakistan Relations

Cross-border terrorism is one of the most persistent challenges in India–Pakistan relations. Since the 1980s, Pakistan-based terror groups have been accused of orchestrating attacks on Indian soil, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.

Historical Context

The Kashmir conflict post-1947 partition created a long-standing territorial dispute. Pakistan’s use of terrorism as a proxy war strategy intensified after its failure in direct wars (1947, 1965, 1971, 1999). Groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed have targeted Indian civilians, security forces, and infrastructure.

Major Incidents

Key terror attacks include:

  • 2001 Indian Parliament attack
  • 2008 Mumbai attacks
  • 2016 Uri attack
  • 2019 Pulwama bombing

These incidents severely strained bilateral relations and drew global attention to Pakistan’s role in harboring terrorists.

India’s Response and Diplomatic Challenges

India has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. It conducted surgical strikes (2016) and the Balakot airstrike (2019) in response to cross-border attacks. India also leveraged diplomatic pressure to isolate Pakistan globally and sought Pakistan’s blacklisting in the FATF.

Despite international pressure, Pakistan has shown limited intent to dismantle terror infrastructure. Peace talks often get derailed due to terrorist incidents. Public opinion in India strongly opposes dialogue without action on terror.

Conclusion: Cross-border terrorism remains the central obstacle to peace between India and Pakistan. Until Pakistan decisively acts against terror networks, the prospects for stable relations remain dim. India must maintain vigilance and continue multilateral cooperation against terrorism.

India’s Nuclear Policy and National Security

India’s nuclear policy has been shaped by strategic necessity, regional threats, and its commitment to responsible behavior. After its independence, India remained skeptical of nuclear weapons, emphasizing disarmament. However, changing security dynamics forced a reassessment.

Evolution of Nuclear Policy

India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974 (Smiling Buddha), marking its entry into the nuclear club. A second round of tests in 1998 (Pokhran-II) officially declared India as a nuclear weapon state. India adopted a “No First Use” (NFU) doctrine and pledged minimum credible deterrence.

National Security Rationale

India’s nuclear policy is primarily aimed at deterrence. Threats from nuclear neighbors—China and Pakistan—make nuclear capability vital. It enhances India’s security posture and provides strategic autonomy in the face of regional aggression.

Nuclear Diplomacy

India is not a signatory to the NPT or CTBT, citing their discriminatory nature. However, India is recognized as a responsible nuclear power, reflected in the Indo–U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008) and membership in export control regimes like the MTCR and Wassenaar Arrangement.

Limitations and Criticism

Critics argue that nuclear weapons haven’t deterred low-intensity conflict or terrorism (e.g., Kargil, Pulwama). Others warn of arms races and accidental escalation. Nevertheless, the consensus remains that nuclear deterrence has prevented full-scale wars.

Conclusion: India’s nuclear weaponization has undoubtedly strengthened its national security. While not a panacea for all threats, it provides a robust deterrent and affirms India’s place in the global strategic order.

Objectives and Principles of India’s Foreign Policy

India’s foreign policy has been guided by a mix of moral idealism, strategic necessity, and evolving geopolitical realities. Since independence, its main objectives have been strategic autonomy, national security, global peace, economic development, and solidarity with the Global South.

Core Objectives

  • Safeguarding Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity: Post-partition challenges and multiple wars with neighbors made national security paramount.
  • Economic Growth and Development: India’s engagements with both developed and developing nations have been motivated by the need for technology, capital, and trade.
  • Establishing Strategic Autonomy: India’s non-alignment policy allowed it to remain independent of Cold War blocs.
  • Global Recognition and Moral Leadership: India promoted peace, disarmament, and anti-colonialism, positioning itself as a leader of the Global South.
  • Regional Stability: India aims to ensure a peaceful neighborhood and promotes SAARC, BIMSTEC, and bilateral ties for regional integration.

Guiding Principles

  • Non-Alignment: India remained independent during the Cold War and continues to pursue a multi-alignment strategy today.
  • Panchsheel (Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence): These include mutual respect, non-interference, and peaceful resolution of disputes.
  • Support for United Nations and Multilateralism: India believes in a rule-based global order and actively participates in the UN, WTO, BRICS, and G20.
  • Peaceful Conflict Resolution: India has historically promoted diplomacy over war (e.g., Tashkent Agreement, Shimla Accord).
  • South-South Cooperation: India advocates for developing countries and offers developmental aid, capacity building, and technical assistance.

Evolving Nature

Post-1991, liberalization introduced a more pragmatic economic diplomacy. Strategic partnerships with the U.S., EU, Russia, Japan, and Indo-Pacific nations were established. India’s foreign policy became more assertive, balancing idealism with realism.

Conclusion: India’s foreign policy reflects its civilizational ethos and postcolonial legacy while pragmatically addressing modern-day challenges.

India’s Permanent Seat in the UNSC: A Global Necessity

The current structure of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reflects the power dynamics of 1945, not the realities of the 21st century. With five permanent members (P5)—the U.S., U.K., Russia, France, and China—holding veto power, the system lacks representativeness, particularly of Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Why India Deserves a Permanent Seat

  • Population and Size: India is the world’s most populous country and the largest democracy, representing over one-sixth of humanity.
  • Global Contributor: India has been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations and consistently supports the UN’s multilateral goals.
  • Economic Strength: As a major emerging economy and member of the G20, India plays a crucial role in global economic governance.
  • Responsible Nuclear Power: India possesses nuclear weapons and follows a policy of No First Use (NFU), reflecting strategic maturity.
  • Leadership in the Global South: India consistently champions the interests of developing nations in forums like BRICS, G77, and NAM.

Arguments for Reform

The UNSC lacks legitimacy due to its outdated composition. The veto power has led to inaction in crises like Syria and Ukraine. A reformed Council would be more democratic, effective, and equitable.

India’s Advocacy and Opposition

India supports expansion of both permanent and non-permanent seats. It is part of the G4 (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil) demanding structural reforms. India’s foreign policy aligns with the UN Charter principles, strengthening its claim. Some P5 members, especially China, are resistant to India’s inclusion due to strategic competition. The veto issue remains contentious.

Conclusion: India’s inclusion in the UNSC is not just a matter of national pride but a necessity for global legitimacy, balance, and justice. A reformed UNSC that includes India would enhance its credibility and effectiveness in addressing 21st-century challenges.

Economic and Security Dimensions of India–US Relations

India–U.S. relations have witnessed a remarkable transformation since the Cold War era. Today, both countries are strategic partners engaged in multifaceted cooperation, especially in the context of China’s rise and global power shifts.

Economic Dimensions

  • Trade and Investment: Bilateral trade crossed $190 billion in 2022. The U.S. is one of India’s largest trading partners.
  • Technology and Innovation: India benefits from U.S. investments in IT, startups, and R&D. The iCET initiative focuses on critical and emerging technologies like AI, semiconductors, and quantum computing.
  • Energy Cooperation: India imports significant energy resources from the U.S., including LNG and crude oil.

Security and Strategic Cooperation

  • Defence Agreements: Foundational agreements like LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA have enhanced interoperability between forces.
  • Joint Exercises: Malabar naval exercises and counterterrorism drills enhance military cooperation.
  • Indo-Pacific Strategy: The U.S. supports India’s role as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific, especially through QUAD (India, U.S., Japan, Australia).
  • Counterterrorism: Post 9/11, India and the U.S. share intelligence and cooperate on terrorism, cyber security, and homeland defense.

Geopolitical Significance

The rise of China, Russia’s assertiveness, and instability in South Asia make India–U.S. relations more important than ever. India benefits from U.S. technology and support without compromising strategic autonomy.

Conclusion: India–U.S. ties reflect shared values of democracy and mutual strategic interest. The partnership has evolved into a comprehensive global strategic alliance, balancing cooperation with autonomy.

Border Disputes and Deterioration of India–China Ties

The India–China border dispute, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), has been a persistent source of tension. The undefined and disputed boundary has led to multiple military confrontations, damaging diplomatic relations.

Historical Background

  • The 1962 Sino-Indian War left a legacy of mistrust.
  • The LAC remains unclarified, especially in Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Agreements like the 1993 and 1996 Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) helped, but did not resolve tensions.

Recent Conflicts

  • Doklam Standoff (2017): India opposed Chinese road construction near the Bhutan border.
  • Galwan Valley Clash (2020): First deadly encounter in decades, resulting in the death of 20 Indian soldiers and an escalation in hostility.

Strategic Implications

  • Security Concerns: India has increased troop deployment and infrastructure in border areas.
  • Diplomatic Setback: Trust deficit has deepened; bilateral summits were stalled.
  • Economic Repercussions: India banned Chinese apps and restricted Chinese investments, though trade continues robustly.
  • Geopolitical Shifts: India’s engagement with the U.S., Japan, and Australia (QUAD) reflects a strategy to balance China.

Conclusion: The unresolved border dispute has transformed India–China relations from cooperative to confrontational. Without a political resolution, mutual suspicion will continue to impact the broader strategic landscape.

Relations with Smaller Neighbors: Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh

India’s foreign policy gives significant importance to its smaller neighbors, guided by the Neighbourhood First policy. Relations with countries like Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh affect India’s security, connectivity, and regional stability.

Afghanistan

India has invested over $3 billion in reconstruction, infrastructure (e.g., Parliament building), and education. Post-Taliban takeover, India focuses on humanitarian aid and maintaining a diplomatic presence. Security concerns over terrorism and Pakistan-backed elements remain high.

Sri Lanka

India shares cultural and ethnic ties with Sri Lanka, especially with the Tamil community. India has supported post-civil war rehabilitation and economic recovery (recent $4 billion aid during the 2022 crisis). China’s increasing presence (Hambantota Port) has prompted India to reassert its influence.

Bangladesh

A model relationship in South Asia, India–Bangladesh ties have seen significant progress. Key issues include:

  • Teesta water sharing (pending).
  • Connectivity and trade via land and rivers.
  • Cooperation on counterterrorism and border management.

Importance of Smaller Neighbors

  • They affect India’s internal security (e.g., insurgency in Northeast).
  • These nations are pivotal to India’s Look East/Act East and connectivity strategies.
  • They shape India’s influence in BIMSTEC and IOR (Indian Ocean Region).

India’s ‘Big Brother’ Image and SAARC’s Failure

SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), established in 1985, aimed to foster regional integration. However, it has failed to meet expectations—largely due to India–Pakistan rivalry and the perception of India’s dominance.

The ‘Big Brother’ Image

India’s size, economy, and political influence have created asymmetry in regional relations. Neighbors often perceive India as overbearing or interfering in their domestic affairs.

Impact on SAARC

  • Pakistan opposes India’s leadership and blocks connectivity projects.
  • Frequent bilateral issues (water sharing, border disputes) dominate multilateral forums.
  • Trust deficit prevents consensus-building.

India’s Counter-Approach

India has shifted focus to BIMSTEC, IORA, and sub-regional cooperation (BBIN) to bypass SAARC’s gridlock. It promotes people-centric diplomacy and development aid.

Conclusion: India’s dominance must be complemented with mutual respect, inclusivity, and dialogue to restore SAARC’s effectiveness. India should lead by consensus, not command.

India’s Nuclear Policy Since 1974

India’s nuclear journey began with the 1974 Pokhran test (Smiling Buddha), followed by the 1998 Pokhran-II series. India declared itself a responsible nuclear power, committed to No First Use (NFU) and minimum credible deterrence.

Key Phases

  • 1974–1998: Maintained nuclear ambiguity, focused on peaceful use.
  • Post-1998: Declared status, formalized nuclear doctrine.
  • Post-2008: Gained global acceptance via the Indo–U.S. Civil Nuclear Deal despite being outside the NPT.

Security Benefits

  • Deterred aggression from China and Pakistan.
  • Strengthened India’s strategic autonomy.
  • Elevated global stature and access to nuclear technology.

Criticism

  • Did not prevent low-intensity conflicts like Kargil (1999) or terrorism (e.g., Pulwama).
  • Questions over NFU and second-strike capability persist.

Conclusion: Nuclear weaponization has enhanced India’s deterrence and global influence. Yet, non-military threats require holistic national security beyond nuclear strategy.

Soft Power Diplomacy: Definition and Scope

Soft power diplomacy refers to a nation’s ability to influence others through cultural, ideological, and moral appeal rather than coercion or hard power (military and economic force). The term was coined by political scientist Joseph Nye, who described soft power as the ability to “attract and co-opt” rather than “coerce”. In international relations, it is a critical tool used to shape preferences, build partnerships, and project a positive national image globally.

India’s Soft Power Diplomacy

India has effectively used soft power diplomacy in various dimensions:

  • Cultural Influence

    India’s rich and ancient civilization, with its yoga, Ayurveda, classical arts, festivals, and cinema, holds a strong appeal worldwide. The International Day of Yoga (June 21), adopted by the UN at India’s initiative, is a powerful example of cultural diplomacy. Bollywood also serves as a significant soft power asset in Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

  • Spiritual and Philosophical Traditions

    India’s spiritual philosophies, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Gandhian non-violence, have global resonance. India promotes these through institutions like the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and diplomatic missions. Countries in Southeast and East Asia share a Buddhist heritage with India, strengthening ties.

  • Diaspora Diplomacy

    India has a large and influential diaspora (over 30 million people across the globe). It plays a crucial role in promoting India’s interests, especially in countries like the U.S., U.K., Canada, and the Gulf. Diaspora engagement enhances trade, investment, and political goodwill.

  • Development and Humanitarian Aid

    India offers capacity-building programs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and grants developmental aid to nations in Africa, South Asia, and Latin America. Vaccine Maitri (vaccine diplomacy during COVID-19) exemplified India’s global humanitarian outreach.

  • Democratic Values and Pluralism

    India’s identity as the world’s largest democracy reinforces its moral authority in promoting democracy, secularism, and rule of law in international forums.

Conclusion: Soft power diplomacy is a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy. As global power becomes more multidimensional, soft power will play an even greater role in shaping international narratives and partnerships.

BRICS: Objectives, Contributions, and Challenges

BRICS is a multilateral forum comprising five major emerging economies—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Formed in 2009 (with South Africa joining in 2010), BRICS represents over 40% of the world’s population and nearly 25% of global GDP. India has been a founding and active member of BRICS and views it as a crucial platform to reshape global governance and promote South–South cooperation.

Objectives of BRICS

  • Reforming global financial and political institutions (e.g., IMF, World Bank, UN Security Council).
  • Promoting multipolarity and a more equitable global order.
  • Enhancing cooperation in economic, political, and security issues.
  • Strengthening intra-BRICS collaboration in development, education, energy, health, and science.

India’s Key Contributions and Interests in BRICS

  • Global Governance Reforms

    India uses BRICS to advocate for UNSC reform, seeking permanent membership. It also supports reforms in the Bretton Woods institutions to give a greater voice to developing countries.

  • Economic Cooperation

    India has supported the New Development Bank (NDB) established by BRICS in 2015, which funds infrastructure and sustainable development projects. It offers an alternative to Western-dominated financial systems and institutions.

  • Counter-Terrorism and Security

    India has pushed for a strong anti-terrorism agenda within BRICS. Despite differences with China on naming specific terror groups, India has ensured that terrorism is recognized as a global threat in BRICS declarations.

  • Digital and Technological Collaboration

    India champions cooperation on digital transformation, fintech, innovation, and sustainable development. The BRICS Startup Forum and BRICS Young Innovators Programme have benefited Indian entrepreneurs and youth.

  • Health and Pandemic Response

    During COVID-19, BRICS served as a platform for cooperation on vaccine research, public health, and supply chains. India shared its experiences and promoted vaccine equity.

Challenges within BRICS

  • India–China tensions often limit consensus.
  • Diverse political systems and economic priorities make unity difficult.
  • There are internal debates on the expansion of BRICS (e.g., BRICS+).

India’s Role in the Changing International Order

The international order is witnessing a profound transformation marked by the decline of U.S. unipolarity, the rise of China, increasing multipolarity, and a shift from traditional power structures to issue-based coalitions and regional groupings. In this changing context, India’s role has become more prominent and strategic.

1. Rise as a Key Pole in a Multipolar World

India is now considered a “swing state” in international politics. It does not align rigidly with any single power bloc but maintains strategic autonomy through issue-based partnerships. As a member of BRICS, G20, QUAD, and SCO, India effectively engages across ideological and geopolitical divides. Its growing economic and military capabilities place it at the center of a multipolar global order.

2. Indo-Pacific Strategy and Maritime Role

With the rise of China and increasing competition in the Indo-Pacific, India has repositioned itself as a net security provider in the region. Through initiatives like the QUAD (with the U.S., Japan, and Australia) and Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), India promotes free, open, and inclusive maritime governance. This enhances its role in balancing China’s assertiveness.

3. Strategic Partnerships and Multi-Alignment

India has deepened strategic partnerships with key powers like the United States, France, Japan, and Russia, while also maintaining engagement with China and the Global South. This multi-alignment reflects India’s pragmatic diplomacy—balancing values with interests.

4. Economic Diplomacy and Global Supply Chains

India is increasingly seen as an alternative to China in global manufacturing. With initiatives like Make in India, PLI schemes, and free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries like UAE and Australia, India is positioning itself as a global economic hub. It also plays a proactive role in shaping digital governance, climate change, and health diplomacy.

5. Voice of the Global South

India champions equity and inclusivity in global forums. During its G20 Presidency (2023), India highlighted issues of debt relief, climate justice, digital public infrastructure, and food security for developing nations. This reinforces India’s leadership in the Global South.

6. Challenges Ahead

India faces challenges like border tensions with China, cross-border terrorism, dependency on energy imports, and balancing ties with rival powers. Yet, its non-aligned, flexible foreign policy enables it to maneuver effectively.

Conclusion

In the evolving international order, India is no longer a peripheral player but a leading power. Its ability to shape global debates, forge diverse partnerships, and stand for sovereignty and justice marks its transition from a postcolonial state to a global rule-maker rather than a rule-taker.