International relations are
influenced by various actors, factors, and dynamics. When it comes to shaping
foreign policy, ideologies play a crucial role, acting as a guiding light, a
shield, or a spotlight for nations. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, two
dominant ideologies emerged: Idealism and realism.
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India has consistently pursued its
international relations and foreign policy in a liberal and idealistic manner.
The principles found in ancient Vedic teachings, such as “sarve
bhawantu sukhinh” (may all be happy and healthy) and “Vasudhaiv
kutumbkam” (the whole earth is but one family), have served as
sources of inspiration for Indian idealism. The country believed in the
prosperity and tranquillity of all nations. In the past three decades, global
politics have undergone significant transformations, coinciding with India’s
own foreign and economic policy changes. India has made certain adjustments to
its foreign policy either proactively or out of necessity, in order to
safeguard its interests in a rapidly changing world. Nevertheless, India’s
foreign policy still adheres to fundamental principles that are occasionally
adapted to serve the country’s interests.
Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime
minister, was considered the primary architect of Indian foreign policy in the
early years of independence, and his Nehruvian policies continue to shape
India’s approach. However, subsequent prime ministers, including those leading
coalition governments, have also left their mark on Indian foreign policy.
Some scholars have even discussed a
“Modi Doctrine,” highlighting the distinctive nature of Narendra
Modi’s foreign policy after his election in 2014 and emphasizing the role of
leadership in shaping policy. According to Mohan (2015), Modi has revitalized
India’s foreign policy, while Pant (2016) observes a new dynamism and
pragmatism in his approach. However, Hall (2015) argues that despite his
enthusiasm, Modi’s foreign policy goals align with those of his predecessors,
Manmohan Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
This article aims to trace the shifts and
phases in India’s foreign policy and make predictions about its future
trajectory while considering the essential theories of international relations.
It seeks to demonstrate that there has been a noticeable change in the way
India formulates and implements its foreign policies since the NDA government
came into power, both in terms of ideology and practical application.
INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY
The foreign policy of India, like any other
nation, is influenced by both domestic and international factors. Domestically,
India’s foreign policy goals and principles are shaped by its history, culture,
geography, and economy. On the international front, factors such as the Cold
War rivalry between NATO and the Warsaw Pact, the establishment of the United
Nations, the arms race (particularly in nuclear weapons), anti-colonialism, and
anti-imperialism play a significant role. To summarize the objectives of Indian
foreign policy, experts have identified the Three S’s: Space for Strategic
Autonomy, Stability (both within and beyond the neighborhood), and Strength
(economic, military, and soft power) to protect and advance Indian interests.
Through extensive research conducted by
scholars and experts, India’s foreign policy can be divided into seven phases
of evolution, as briefly mentioned below:
The Power of Ideas (1947-1962): During this phase, India’s foreign policy was heavily influenced by
idealism, socialism, and Gandhian principles. Non-alignment was a key aspect,
and India rose to prominence among third-world nations through the Non-Aligned
Movement (NAM). The country actively opposed apartheid, supported
decolonization efforts, and advocated for peacekeeping and disarmament.
The Fractured Years (1962-1970): This phase was marked by the Sino-Indian War, which resulted in
the death of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru (it was said that his decision of keeping friendly relations with China and overly trusting it later proved to be a major havoc which led to a sort heartbreak for him). The leadership of Lal Bahadur
Shastri, although challenging, was not as globally influential as Nehru’s.
India faced conflicts with Pakistan in 1965 and experienced strained relations
with the United States due to questioning its role in the Vietnam War. Realism
gained prominence during this period.
The Idea of Power (1970-1989): Indira Gandhi’s leadership during this phase was characterized by
centralization, authoritarianism, and a recognition of the significance of
power in foreign policy. India revisited its ancient Kautilyan roots and
witnessed significant events such as the 1971 Indo-Pak War, the first nuclear
weapon test in 1974, and a shift away from non-alignment towards closer ties
with the Soviet Union.
The Years of Reflection (1990-1998): In the early 1990s, India faced economic challenges and internal
conflicts in regions like the North East, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir. As the
Soviet Union dissolved, India sought closer ties with the United States and
realized the need for stronger connections. The success of the Indian economy
laid the foundation for the subsequent phase of foreign policy.
The Reality of Power (1998-2011): Despite initial sanctions, it became evident that democratic India,
with its growing economy and population, could be a valuable partner. The
Talbott-Jaswant Singh discussions between India and the United States
significantly enhanced bilateral ties. During this period, India experienced
economic growth, witnessed the rise of the middle class, and strengthened its
soft power. A Look East Policy fostered closer relations with the United States
and China.
Back to the Future (2011-2014): In this phase, the NAM 2.0 paper emphasized the importance of
strategic autonomy in Indian foreign policy. While strategic autonomy received
criticism for its emphasis on the now-defunct Non-Alignment concept, it
continued to play a significant role.
Enlightened National Interest (2014):
Following the 2014 general elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought
about a shift in foreign policy that aligned with India’s increasing global
influence. Enlightened National Interest, based on Aristotle’s concept of
Enlightened Self Interest, became the guiding principle. India prioritizes a
shared future vision over narrow national interest, adhering to the idea of
Vasudaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family). Modi’s foreign policy employs a
soft power and neighborhood-first approach, modifying the Gujral Doctrine.
While India initially showed willingness to engage with Pakistan, the latter’s
support for terrorism halted progress. India’s assertive foreign policy under
Modi and the effective execution by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar
have transformed its image from a soft state to a nation that protects its
interests.
Regarding India’s policies and outlook
towards the United States and China, India’s stance on the Doklam standoff in
2017 and the ongoing standoff in Ladakh following the Galwan Valley incident
has demonstrated its resolve. Concerned about China’s growing power and its
proximity to Russia, the United States sees India as its best hope. Thus, the
Quad alliance comprising the US, Australia, Japan, and India has been formed to
counter China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region. India is prepared to
cooperate constructively with the United States, and efforts are being made to
strengthen economic ties and resolve trade issues. India’s economic future is
closely tied to the United States and other democracies rather than Russia.
Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, a seasoned diplomat handpicked as India’s first External Affairs
Minister solely on the basis of merit, advocates for pragmatic realism
strategies to maintain a balance of power. This approach involves making
tactical concessions for long-term advantages. Together with other prominent
figures in India such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath
Singh, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Dr. Jaishankar has
facilitated a shift in India’s military stance and open support for USA-led policies
in the Indo-Pacific region. This alignment aims to align with the region’s
new realistic structure as advocated by Kenneth Waltz. Our well-established
foreign policy rests on the government’s careful handling of the situation
without endorsing any specific group.
INDIA BALANCING EAST AND WEST IN THE
AGE OF RUSSIA- UKRAINE WAR
India faced challenges in navigating the
Ukraine crisis, as it had strategic ties with the U.S. and Europe, as well as
longstanding relations with Russia. With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine starting
in February 2022, India had to make difficult choices.
Amid the increasing polarization between
the U.S. and the European Union on one side, and Russia on the other, India
aimed to maintain a balanced approach by articulating its version of
“non-alignment” during the war in Ukraine. The West imposed sanctions
targeting the Russian economy, resulting in food and fuel shortages and price
hikes that raised concerns in India.
However, India opted not to comply with the
various Western sanctions. Instead, it chose to strengthen its military
cooperation and oil trade with Russia while exploring rupee-rupee-based payment
mechanisms to facilitate these transactions. India’s External Affairs Minister
strongly defended this foreign policy stance and criticized Western
“hypocrisy” regarding Russian oil flows to India.
When it came to multilateral platforms such
as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), United Nations General Assembly
(UNGA), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and Human Rights Commission,
which discussed resolutions condemning Russia for the invasion and humanitarian
crisis, India decided to abstain from voting in over a dozen instances.
Overall, India sought to strike a
delicate balance between its ties with the U.S. and Europe and its traditional
relationship with Russia during the Ukraine crisis, refusing to fully align
with Western sanctions and instead emphasizing its independent stance.
Recent trends 2022 and 2023
The year 2022 held significant developments
in Indian diplomacy, setting the stage for India’s prominent role in 2023 as it
assumes the presidency of the G-20 and chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation (SCO).
During 2022, India made notable shifts in
its approach to Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) after a period of hiatus. The
government initiated a comprehensive review of all existing FTAs, terminated
Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs), and withdrew from the Asian Regional
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which involved 15 nations.
However, India also made strides in signing
trade agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia.
Additionally, India aims to progress in negotiations with the European Union
(EU), Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and Canada for potential trade
agreements.
While India initially joined the U.S.-led
Indo-Pacific Economic Forum (IPEF), it later decided to abstain from
participating in trade talks associated with the forum.
As India assumes the presidency of the
G-20, it highlights key issues such as
climate change transitions, women-led development, and multilateral reform,
among others.
Presently in 2023, Indian diplomacy is in
the spotlight as it takes on leadership roles in the G-20 and the Shanghai
Cooperation Organisation (SCO), shaping its stance on trade agreements,
multilateral forums, and global issues. In recent SCO meeting India’s stance of
not signing the agreement upon China’s 2030 belt and road initiative depicts
India’ foreign policy prowess.
CONCLUSION AND WAY AHEAD
The change lies in India’s leadership being
better equipped to leverage the current circumstances due to their increased
strength and assertiveness. The primary objective of India’s future foreign
policy should be to maintain a balance in relations between the US and China.
Another crucial goal is to foster closer integration within South Asia. If
Pakistan is not receptive to this, then greater emphasis should be placed on
the remaining countries. Initiatives like the BBIN (Bangladesh Bhutan India
Nepal) corridor are a step in this direction. Moreover, the connectivity
established with Southeast Asian nations through the Kaladan Multi-Modal
Transport Corridor and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway can
contribute to the prosperity of India’s north-eastern region.
The pursuit of stability and inclusive
growth requires a creative foreign policy approach. India must actively engage
in shaping international norms rather than simply adhering to them. This can be
achieved by securing a permanent membership in the UN and becoming a member of
all significant international organizations.
