India’s foreign policy has experienced both change and continuity over the years since gaining independence in 1947. The evolution of its foreign policy reflects the shifting global landscape and India’s changing domestic priorities. Here, we’ll identify some of the major changes and continuities in India’s foreign policy:
Continuity:
1. Non-Alignment: Non-alignment, as advocated by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, remains a core principle of Indian foreign policy. India has consistently pursued a policy of strategic autonomy and refrained from aligning with any major power bloc. This principle reflects India’s commitment to sovereignty and its aversion to becoming a part of global power politics.
2. Emphasis on Peaceful Coexistence: The Nehruvian ideal of peaceful coexistence, as encapsulated in the Panchsheel principles, continues to influence India’s foreign policy. India remains committed to diplomacy, dialogue, and peaceful conflict resolution. It has been actively engaged in numerous peacekeeping missions under the aegis of the United Nations.
3. Multi-Alignment: India continues to maintain a multi-aligned foreign policy. While it has strengthened its partnerships with countries like the United States and has cultivated strategic ties with powers like Russia and China, India also maintains relations with a wide array of nations. This multi-alignment approach allows India to balance its interests and reduce dependence on any single power.
4. Focus on South Asia: South Asia remains a region of primary importance in India’s foreign policy. India continues to work towards regional stability, economic integration, and cooperation within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and other regional groupings like BIMSTEC. India’s concerns and interests in its immediate neighborhood remain largely consistent.
5. Economic Diplomacy: India’s focus on economic diplomacy, trade, and economic cooperation has intensified over the years. Economic engagement with other countries has gained significance, leading to initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and increased foreign direct investment. This approach helps India strengthen its ties and promote its economic interests.
Changes:
1. Pragmatism and Realism: There has been a noticeable shift towards pragmatism and realism in India’s foreign policy. While India continues to uphold its principles, it has become more practical in pursuing its national interests. This is evident in its increasing engagement with major powers, such as the United States, and its willingness to align its strategic interests in various regions.
2. Expanding Global Engagement: India’s foreign policy has expanded beyond its traditional focus on South Asia. It is now actively involved in regions such as Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific. This broader engagement reflects India’s quest for global influence and the pursuit of its interests in multiple theaters.
3. Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: In response to security challenges, particularly cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, India has intensified its efforts to build international cooperation against terrorism. India is actively involved in counter-terrorism initiatives and seeks to isolate state-sponsored terrorism.
4. Economic Reforms and Liberalization: India’s economic reforms and liberalization, initiated in the 1990s, have led to a more open economy. This shift has contributed to India’s increased role in international trade and investment, fostering economic partnerships with countries worldwide.
5. Climate Change and Sustainable Development: India has assumed a more proactive role in addressing global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development. It is a signatory to international agreements like the Paris Agreement and has taken steps to reduce its carbon footprint, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
In conclusion, India’s foreign policy exhibits both continuity and change. While it retains some of the foundational principles of its early years, such as non-alignment and peaceful coexistence, it has also adapted to contemporary global dynamics by pursuing a more pragmatic approach, engaging with a wider range of countries, and addressing new challenges such as terrorism and climate change. India’s foreign policy is a dynamic and evolving framework that reflects its aspirations as a rising global power.
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