1. What are the key domestic and international factors that influence India’s foreign policy?
In
what ways do these elements work together to guide policy-making?
India’s foreign policy is shaped by a combination of domestic pressures and international
realities. These elements interact continuously to shape how India engages with the world. Over
time, India has evolved from a non-aligned, idealist state to a pragmatic and strategically
autonomous power.
Domestic Factors:
One of the major domestic drivers is economic growth. Since the 1991 economic liberalization,
India’s foreign policy has increasingly focused on trade, investment, energy security, and access
to advanced technologies. Countries that offer economic benefits, such as the U.S., Japan, and
the Gulf nations, often become strategic partners.
Security concerns also play a major role. India has dealt with cross-border terrorism,
insurgencies in the northeast, and border tensions with China and Pakistan. These concerns
drive partnerships with countries that provide military cooperation, intelligence sharing, and
defense equipment. The need to secure its borders and maritime interests shapes India’s
relations with neighbors and the broader Indo-Pacific region.
Leadership and political ideology at home also shape foreign policy. For instance, the current
government emphasizes strategic autonomy, "Act East" diplomacy, and building India’s image
as a rising global power. Public opinion and the influence of the Indian diaspora abroad also
contribute, as governments become more sensitive to the views of global Indians and voters at
home.
International Factors:
Internationally, the changing global power structure has a significant influence. The rise of
China, the decline of U.S. unipolarity, and the emergence of multipolarity have all led India to
hedge its bets—balancing relations with the U.S., Russia, and others. Regional dynamics,
especially in South Asia, also play a key role. India's relations with Pakistan remain tense, while
ties with Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal are vital for regional stability and connectivity.
India also engages with multilateral institutions like the UN, BRICS, G20, and the SCO. These
platforms give India the opportunity to shape global norms while promoting its interests. Climate
change, counterterrorism, and global health are areas where India has sought to project
leadership.
India’s foreign policy is also affected by global events such as the Russia-Ukraine war, the
COVID-19 pandemic, or trade tensions between the U.S. and China. These incidents often
force recalibrations in India’s approach to various countries and regions.
Interplay Between Domestic and International Factors:
These elements are not isolated. For example, India’s domestic energy needs push it to
maintain good relations with Middle Eastern countries, even when there are geopolitical
tensions. Similarly, domestic tech growth drives foreign cooperation in cybersecurity and digital
infrastructure. Political leadership may respond to global developments, like China’s Belt and
Road Initiative, by investing in its own regional outreach programs such as the International
North-South Transport Corridor.
In summary, India’s foreign policy is the outcome of a complex balancing act between internal
priorities and external opportunities and threats. As India grows economically and gains global
stature, its foreign policy will likely continue evolving to reflect a blend of strategic caution,
national interest, and global ambition.
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2. Trace the evolution of India–US relations from the Cold War period to the present day. What
key factors have driven the transformation of this bilateral partnership, and how do these ties
hold strategic importance in today’s changing global geopolitical landscape?
India-U.S. relations have undergone a remarkable transformation over the past several
decades. From distant and often tense during the Cold War, the relationship has evolved into a
comprehensive global strategic partnership. This shift is driven by economic, strategic, and
geopolitical factors that have aligned more closely in recent years.
Cold War Period:
During the Cold War, relations between India and the United States were characterized by
mistrust and limited cooperation. India was a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement
and sought to avoid siding with either the U.S. or the Soviet Union. However, the U.S. viewed
India’s closeness with the USSR—especially during the 1971 Indo-Pak war—as a sign of
alignment with its Cold War rival. Meanwhile, the U.S. backed Pakistan as a strategic partner in
South Asia, which caused significant tension in bilateral relations. India’s nuclear test in 1974
further worsened ties, leading to sanctions and strained diplomacy.
Post-Cold War Changes:
With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, and India’s economic liberalization the same year,
a major shift began. India began integrating with the global economy, opening up to foreign
investment, and seeking technological advancement. The U.S., as a leading global economic
power, became a natural partner. Shared interests began to emerge in trade, education, and
technology.
2000s Onward – Strategic Partnership:
A turning point came with the 2005 U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Deal, which marked a significant
breakthrough in strategic relations. It allowed India access to civilian nuclear technology despite
not being a signatory to the NPT. This move reflected growing trust and recognized India as a
responsible nuclear power.
Defense cooperation has grown rapidly since then. India is now designated as a “Major Defense
Partner” of the U.S., and both nations regularly conduct joint military exercises. Agreements like
COMCASA and BECA have enhanced military interoperability. The rise of China has further
drawn the two countries closer. As China becomes more assertive in the Indo-Pacific, India and
the U.S. have found common ground in ensuring regional stability and freedom of navigation.
Economic and Technological Ties:
Bilateral trade has grown to over $100 billion annually. The U.S. is one of India’s top trading
partners, and cooperation spans pharmaceuticals, information technology, clean energy, and
space research. The Indian diaspora in the U.S.—one of the largest and most successful
immigrant communities—acts as a bridge between the two nations.
Strategic Significance Today:
India-U.S. ties are crucial in today’s multipolar world. They collaborate on counterterrorism,
climate change, and supply chain resilience. The Quad grouping (with Japan and Australia)
reflects a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
In conclusion, the India-U.S. relationship has evolved from estrangement to strategic
partnership, driven by mutual interests and shifting global dynamics. As the world navigates new
challenges, from technological disruption to great power rivalries, this bilateral relationship is
likely to play an increasingly central role in shaping the global order.
