INDIA'S OUTLOOK IN THE YEAR AHEAD

7th January, 2025

India's Global Position and Stability

India is at a key point in its history. It is growing fast and it is politically quite stable. Today, India is seen as a symbol of peace. This is in contrast with the changes in other countries and the fact that new alliances are emerging worldwide.

Global Political Uncertainty in 2024

In 2024, political instability did spread across many regions. Conflicts in Europe and West Asia, like the Gaza crisis and the Ukraine war, caused many challenges. These issues might grow into bigger conflicts, but India managed them effectively.

India's Challenges in 2025

India may face new challenges in 2025. Leaders must be cautious and prepared. An old Chinese saying warns, "The wind sweeping through the tower heralds a rising storm in the mountain."

India-China Relations: Border Talks and Concerns

India’s biggest neighbor is China. There has been some disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), but the border issue is not resolved. India must stay alert as China strengthens its relations with the Global South.

China’s Global Influence and Strategic Moves

China is working to grow its influence. It hosted peace talks between Palestinian groups plus it promoted the Global Security Initiative (GSI) with African nations. At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, China limited India’s influence. China’s growing relationship with Japan also shows changes in regional alliances.

 

South Asian Geopolitical Dynamics

South Asia is changing. The shift in Bangladesh’s government raises questions about India’s neighborhood policy. India’s relationships with Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Bhutan are evolving. But Pakistan remains a challenge for India and Afghanistan is no longer a priority for India either.

West Asian Geopolitical Shifts: The Syrian Crisis

The Syrian crisis is critical. The fall of the Assad regime and the rise of the Sunni group Hayat Tahir al Shams (HTS) have reshaped the region. India, which has supported Assad, needs to adjust its position.

 

Shifting Alliances and Regional Influence

West Asia is seeing new alliances. Iran’s influence is shrinking. But Israel and Turkey are gaining power. Russia is losing influence after the fall of Assad. But its ties with Turkey could help it in regaining its influence.

Rising Digital Threat

Global tensions are rising. So, digital threats also do rise. New technologies can be a risk to national infrastructure. India has seen an increase in cyberattacks that basically targets companies and government bodies. Action needs to be taken against this growing threat.

Conclusion

India is at a turning point. It must stay alert with rising geopolitical tensions. Relations with China, South Asia and West Asia are crucial in this respect. Action also needs to be taken against digital threat quickly. With careful decisions and strong alliances, India can stay stable and continue to grow.

READ ABOUT WEST ASIA CRISIS: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/a-year-of-war-in-west-asia

READ ABOUT RUSSIA UKRAINE CRISIS: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/russia-ukraine-crisis

READ SOME MORE ON IT: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/plan-for-peace-in-ukraine

READ ABOUT ISRAEL HAMAS CONFLICT :https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/israel-hamas-conflict

READ: INDIA CHINA BORDER DISPUTE DECODED : https://www.iasgyan.in/blogs/india-china-border-dispute-decoded