Indian Foreign Policy is the approach taken by the Government of India when it interacts with other nations and international organisations. The goal is to protect India’s interests and promote peace, stability and prosperity throughout the world. India’s foreign policies are guided by non-alignment principles, coexistence and sovereignty.
The Indian Foreign Policy: Key aspects
- Non-alignment: India follows a non-alignment policy, meaning it is not aligned with any of the major alliances or power blocs.
- Stability in the Region: India strives to encourage stability and co-operation in South Asia, the Indian Ocean and surrounding regions.
- Economic Diplomacy India’s policy is to promote its growth and development by establishing trade and partnership agreements with other nations.
- Multilateralism: India participates actively in international organisations like United Nations, World Trade Organization and BRICS for global challenges to promote cooperation.
- Safety Concerns India’s Foreign Policy also includes addressing threats to security such as terrorism, cyber war, and border disputes.
Indian foreign policy in action
1. Neighborhood First Policy: India pursues a policy of “neighborhood before all else” to enhance its relationships with neighbouring countries, such as Nepal and Bhutan.
2. Act East Policy India is shifting its emphasis from “Look East” towards “Act East,” in order to strengthen ties with Southeast Asian nations and promote regional inclusion.
3. Strategic autonomy India balances its relationship with major powers such as the US, Russia and China while maintaining strategic autonomy.
Questions about Indian foreign policy
1. What are the foundations of India’s Foreign Policy?
India’s Foreign Policy is founded on principles such as non-alignment and peaceful coexistence. It also respects sovereignty and territorial integrity.
2. What is the relationship between India and its neighbours?
India has adopted a policy of “neighborhood before all else” to improve relations with its neighbors through cultural exchanges and economic collaboration.
3. How does India maintain a balance in its relationship with the major powers?
India retains its strategic autonomy through engagement with major powers such as the US, Russia and China, based on mutual interests and national benefits.
4. What role does India have in international and regional organisations?
India participates actively in global and regional organizations, such as UN and WTO, to tackle common problems and encourage cooperation.
5. What is the Indian foreign policy on security?
India’s focus is on countering threats to security like cyberwarfare and border disputes, through diplomatic dialog, intelligence-sharing, and military co-operation.
