This article is part of the UPSC Daily Editorial Analysis, covering The Hindu editorial – " India’s geopolitical vision should be larger," published on 29th March, by the best UPSC coaching in Kolkata.
Syllabus: UPSC GS Paper 2 International Relations – India's Foreign Policy and Global Role
India has historically intervened in regional conflicts. But now it prioritizes economic growth and strategic autonomy over its direct involvement in these conflicts. But global expectations are also rising so in such circumstances India needs to balance diplomacy with assertiveness to maintain its influence in a world order that is shifting.
India has proactively intervened in regional conflicts in the past with an aim to protect its strategic interests plus uphold humanitarian principles. Some examples are as follows--
It’s important to note that despite of this strong history India has refrained from taking a same type of assertive role in recent global conflicts. This shows that there is a strategic a shift in India’ approach.
In the last two decades India's foreign policy has prioritized economic growth over direct intervention in geopolitical conflicts. There are key drivers behind this shift. Thes are as follows: :
India has concentrated on strengthening its economic presence. It has done this by becoming the world's fifth-largest economy. Economic diplomacy has been given more importance over military interventions.
Strategic Autonomy: India has steered clear of involvement in foreign wars to preserve its strategic autonomy. This is for the purpose of maintaining balanced relations with world powers.
Bilateral Relationship Management: India's foreign policy approach does not antagonize major partners by keeping itself impartial in disputes like Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine.
Minimizing Economic Disruptions: If India directly engages in conflicts it could impact India’s trade and energy security. This is particularly correct because it has its reliance on Middle Eastern oil and
Russian defense supplies: The concerns mentioned above are valid but the geopolitical issues in today's times necessitates a recalibration of India’s approach. This is to ensure that it remains a key global player.
India has moved through its Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) origins to a policy of multi-alignment. This is to develop close bilateral relationships with the world's leading powers. But NAM focused on the Global South. But the current multi-alignment is for India's geopolitical and economic interest.
Global expectations from India are rising:
Democratic Legitimacy: Being the world's largest democracy, India demands a permanent seat in the UNSC. Thus, the point is that decisions on the international stage are incomplete without its participation. This maxim should be applied to taking an active role in settling major disputes.
Distinct Diplomatic Standing: India's even-handed relationship with Russia, the U.S., the EU and the Middle East positions it to play the role of a mediator in international conflicts. This was especially the case in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Global Powers' Recognition: Russian President Vladimir Putin recently recognized India's contribution to global diplomacy. This strengthens the demand for India to have a greater role in peace initiatives.
The global order is getting reset geopolitically. There is a rising fragmentation and local conflicts as well. Various nations have overtly put themselves forward as conflict mediators. Examples are as follows:
India can lose its clout to these countries if India continues to pursue a non-committal policy. Secondly, China's aggressive activities along India's northern border and the Indo-Pacific sends a message that India must be in a more diplomatic and strategic counterbalance.
To maintain and expand its geopolitical influence, India must:
Historically, India has actively contributed to global peace efforts starting from its role in the Korean War (1951-52) to peacekeeping missions under the UN. More recently, its tenure at the UN Security Council (2021-22) started showing that India needs to bridge its global divides on contentious issues.
In today’s times when there is geopolitical fragmentation India must integrate economic ambitions with strategic assertiveness. So, remaining a just bystander in key global events could undermine its aspirations to be recognized as a major pole in a multipolar world. Instead of this a well-calibrated foreign policy that is a blend of economic pragmatism with strategic engagement. It will ensure India’s rightful place on the global stage.
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PRACTICE QUESTION How can India balance diplomacy with assertiveness to maintain its global influence amid rising expectations and a shifting world order? |
How has India’s historical role in regional conflicts influenced its foreign policy?
India once actively intervened (e.g., 1971 Bangladesh War, 1988 Maldives Coup), but now prioritizes economic growth and strategic autonomy over military actions.
Why does India prioritize economic growth over military interventions?
To safeguard trade, energy security and strategic autonomy, India prefers economic diplomacy over direct conflict involvement.
How does India balance neutrality with global expectations?
India follows multi-alignment, maintaining ties with Russia, the U.S., EU and Middle East, positioning itself as a neutral mediator in conflicts.
What risks does India face with a non-committal approach?
India may lose influence to Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and China, which actively mediate conflicts, while China’s aggression demands a strategic counterbalance.
How can India strengthen its global influence?
By enhancing regional ties, multilateral alliances (SCO), trade agreements (India-U.S.) and cyber-defense, while asserting itself as a diplomatic power.
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