The Realist view of Indian foreign policy is an analytical perspective that assesses India’s international relations through the lens of Realism, a prominent theory in international relations. Realism, as applied to India’s foreign policy, emphasizes several key principles and considerations:
1. National Interest: Realism contends that states are primarily motivated by their national interests. In the context of India, this implies that its foreign policy decisions are guided by a clear focus on protecting and advancing its core national interests. These interests encompass security, economic well-being, and preserving its sovereignty.
2. Power and Security: Realism emphasizes the role of power and security in international relations. India, like other states, seeks to maximize its relative power to secure itself against potential threats. In terms of security, India is concerned with traditional military threats, such as those posed by Pakistan and China, as well as non-traditional security challenges, like terrorism.
3. Balance of Power: Realism often involves maintaining a balance of power. India aims to balance the influence of its neighbors and other major powers in the region. This is particularly relevant in its relations with China, where India seeks to counterbalance China’s rising power in the Indo-Pacific region.
4. Pragmatism: Realism emphasizes pragmatic and rational decision-making in foreign policy. India’s realist approach involves evaluating the benefits and risks of various foreign policy choices, making decisions that advance its national interests, and being flexible in adapting to changing international circumstances.
5. Self-Help: Realism underscores self-help as a core principle. India focuses on building its military capabilities and pursuing a self-reliant approach to economic development. This includes a strong emphasis on indigenous defense production and technological innovation.
6. Geopolitical Realities: A realist view of Indian foreign policy recognizes the importance of geographical and geopolitical realities. India’s geographic location in South Asia and its immediate neighbors (Pakistan, China, Nepal, etc.) play a pivotal role in shaping its foreign policy choices and strategic considerations.
7. Strategic Partnerships: India forms strategic partnerships with countries that align with its interests. This includes strengthening ties with the United States, Russia, and other like-minded nations to enhance its strategic capabilities and influence on the global stage.
8. Bilateral and Multilateral Diplomacy: Realism does not reject diplomacy but underscores that diplomacy should be used as a means to achieve state interests. India engages in both bilateral and multilateral diplomacy to advance its goals, including participation in forums like the United Nations and regional groupings such as SAARC and BIMSTEC.
9. Competition with China: A realist perspective acknowledges the competition and rivalry with China in various dimensions, including territorial disputes, influence in the Indian Ocean region, and economic competition. India adopts a realist approach to manage its relationship with China while safeguarding its interests.
In summary, the Realist view of Indian foreign policy underscores the pursuit of national interests, security concerns, and pragmatic decision-making. India’s foreign policy, like that of any state, is driven by a realist assessment of the global landscape and the imperative of advancing its security, economic well-being, and sovereignty in a complex and ever-changing international environment.
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