Neeti Prakash asserts how India has transformed global equations with substantive policies that aim at catapulting it into a global leader. Under the Modi administration, there has been a remarkable emphasis on India assuming a prominent role in global governance, reflective of its growing economic and strategic influence. It is also evident in India’s active participation in various international fora and its initiatives to leave its mark on global agenda.
India’s foreign policy has seen profound transformations in recent years, mirroring the nation’s expanding ambitions for global leadership. Amid shifting geopolitical landscapes, India has prioritised regional cooperation and forged strategic partnerships to bolster its influence and security.
Transitioning from a passive stance to a proactive and assertive approach, India has come a long way and is now asserting its leadership. Under the Modi administration, there has been a pronounced emphasis on India assuming a larger role in global governance, reflective of its growing economic and strategic influence.
This shift is evident in India’s active participation in various international organisations and its initiatives to shape global agenda. For instance, the Vaccine Maitri initiative, which provided critical medical supplies to neighbouring countries during the Covid-19 pandemic, underscores India’s commitment to contributing to global solutions.
Regional cooperation
The ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy has been central to India’s regional engagement strategy. This policy aims to foster stability and prosperity in South Asia, acknowledging the significance of a secure and cooperative neighbourhood for India’s overall development and security. As a result, India has strengthened ties with countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, enhancing economic and strategic cooperation.
India’s ‘Look East Policy,’ initiated in 1992 to strengthen relationships with South-East Asian nations, evolved into the ‘Act East Policy’ in 2014 under the Modi government. This upgraded approach emphasises proactive engagement with the broader Indo-Pacific region, focusing on enhancing economic cooperation, cultural connections, and strategic partnerships.
In 2015, the Prime Minister had introduced the ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region’ (SAGAR) concept in Mauritius. This vision aims for a ‘free, open, inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region’, grounded in a rules-based international framework. SAGAR promotes sustainable infrastructure investment, freedom of navigation, lawful trade, mutual respect for sovereignty, peaceful dispute resolution, and equality among nations.
As part of this initiative, India is actively contributing to connectivity, capacity building, disaster management, sustainable development, maritime safety and security, and strengthening underwater domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region.
In addition, India has fortified its partnerships with major global powers such as the United States and Russia. While maintaining a strategic relationship with Russia, India has also collaborated closely with the US on various fronts, including counter-terrorism and defence cooperation. This pragmatic approach enables India to balance its interests without aligning too closely with any single power bloc.
Geopolitical dynamics
India aims to attract foreign investments and technology to support domestic development initiatives like the Make in India and Skill India programmes. Engagement with the US, particularly in technology and innovation, is vital for India’s economic growth. The Modi administration has also stressed the importance of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to boost exports and attract foreign direct investments.
Navigating complex geopolitical dynamics, particularly in its relations with China, is a crucial task. Ongoing border disputes and China’s growing regional influence pose substantial security threats to India. The government’s response has been a combination of strong military pushback and diplomatic engagement with China, while simultaneously deepening ties with other regional powers such as the US and Japan.
Looking ahead, India’s foreign policy will continue to adapt to changing global dynamics. The country’s aspirations for global leadership will depend on its ability to balance strategic interests with moral values and regional cooperation. A focus on economic diplomacy and technological advancements will be pivotal in driving India’s growth and influence on the global stage.
India’s foreign policy has undergone a significant transformation in the last decade, underscoring the country’s growing aspirations for global leadership. In the Modi government’s third term, one can expect further efforts to align India’s domestic development with its foreign policy, fostering a more cohesive and effective approach to global engagement.
By prioritising regional cooperation, strategic partnerships, and economic diplomacy, India is poised to assume a more prominent role in global governance. The challenges ahead will demand a nuanced approach that balances India’s strategic interests with its moral values and regional commitments, ultimately shaping the country’s future as a leading world power.
Multilateral organisations
India’s growing assertiveness in its foreign policy is also evident in its participation in multilateral organisations. India has taken on a more active role in forums such as the United Nations, G20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
As a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, India has advocated for reforms to make the institution more representative and effective, particularly pushing for a permanent seat on the council. Its leadership in the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure demonstrates India’s commitment to addressing global challenges like climate change and disaster management.
Defence and security cooperation has been another key area of focus for India’s foreign policy. India has expanded its defence partnerships through bilateral and multilateral agreements.
The signing of foundational defence agreements with the United States, such as the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) and the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), has enhanced interoperability and defence collaboration.
India has also increased defence cooperation with other countries like France, Israel, and Japan, and has actively participated in joint military exercises to strengthen its strategic alliances and enhance its defence capabilities.
In the era of rapid technological advancement, India has recognised the importance of technological and cyber diplomacy. India aims to be a global leader in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space exploration. Collaborations with countries like the US, Japan, and Israel in technology and innovation are crucial for India’s progress in these fields.
India’s space programme, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has achieved significant milestones, including missions to the Moon and Mars, showcasing India’s capabilities in space technology and exploration.
Soft power
India has also leveraged its rich cultural heritage and soft power to enhance its global standing. The Modi government’s promotion of yoga internationally, Ayurveda, and Indian cinema has helped India build a positive image worldwide.
Initiatives like the International Day of Yoga, celebrated annually on June 21st, have gained global recognition and participation. India’s cultural diplomacy efforts, through organisations like the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), aim to strengthen cultural ties and promote mutual understanding with other countries.
Humanitarian and development assistance is another important aspect of India’s foreign policy. India has provided aid and support to countries facing natural disasters, conflicts, and humanitarian crises.
India’s contributions to disaster relief efforts in Nepal, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka, as well as its support to African nations in areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure, reflect its commitment to global humanitarian efforts.
The Development Partnership Administration (DPA) within the Ministry of External Affairs coordinates India’s development assistance programmes, fostering goodwill and strengthening bilateral relations.
India’s engagement with its diaspora has also been a key element of its foreign policy. With one of the largest diaspora populations in the world, India has sought to strengthen its connections with Indian communities abroad.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention, held biennially, celebrates the contributions of the Indian diaspora and facilitates dialogue between the diaspora and the Indian government. India’s efforts to engage the diaspora aim to leverage their skills, investments, and influence to support India’s development and enhance its global presence.