Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy

Nehru’s Era (1947-1964): Fundamental Ideas

India’s first prime minister and a major figure in the development of its foreign policy, Jawaharlal Nehru, placed a strong emphasis on the following ideas:

1. Non-Alignment Movement (NAM): In order to preserve strategic autonomy, Nehru led India away from Cold War alignments and toward non-alignment. In 1961, India joined NAM as a founding member, promoting the interests of recently independent countries.
   1. Panchsheel Agreement: In 1954, China and the United States signed the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, which emphasized non-aggression and respect for one another. The Sino-Indian War of 1962, however, put this idea to the test to a great extent and revealed flaws in India’s diplomatic and defense policies.
   1. Emphasis on Asia and the Global South: To combat colonial legacies and advance decolonization, Nehru placed a high priority on solidarity with Asian and African countries.
   1. Opposition to Military Alliances: Stressing a policy of peace and international nuclear disarmament, India rejected alliances such as CENTO and SEATO. Limitations and Accomplishments: Nehru’s idealism improved India’s moral stature but also made the nation vulnerable, especially in terms of defence readiness, as the 1962 conflict demonstrated.

The Post-Nehru Era (1964-1991)

Regional Difficulties and Realpolitik Subsequent leaders modified foreign policy in response to regional and worldwide developments after Nehru’s passing:

• 1965–1977, 1980–1984: Indira Gandhi – Realpolitik Approach: Motivated by regional domination and national security, Indira Gandhi began making more sensible decisions.
• During the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War: India firmly backed the Mukti Bahini in their conflict with Pakistan, which resulted in the establishment of Bangladesh. India’s strategic posture was strengthened by the Indo-Soviet Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation (1971).
• Nuclear Policy: In 1974, India rejected the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and announced its decision to pursue nuclear deterrence with the Pokhran-I Nuclear test.
• The 1977–1980 Janata Government:- Although the Janata regime departed from India’s long standing Soviet affiliation and tended toward better ties with the United States, its stay was too brief for meaningful changes.
• Rajiv Gandhi (1984–1989): Economic Diplomacy: centered on trade and technology, establishing connections with developing international economies.
• Efforts to Maintain Peace: In 1987, the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) was dispatched to Sri Lanka; nevertheless, its poor success led to controversy.

The Post-Cold War Era (1991-2000)

A Reorientation to the World With the conclusion of the Cold War, India’s foreign policy began to move toward strategic pragmatism.

• Economic liberalization: Under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao and Finance Minister Manmohan Singh, India adopted economic liberalization in 1991, which had an impact on foreign policy. The development of economic relations with wealthy countries and regional blocs such as ASEAN was prioritized.
• Strategic Autonomy: By launching India’s “Look East Policy,” Rao bolstered relations with countries in Southeast Asia in an effort to offset China’s influence. The improvement in India-U.S. ties was characterized by defence and technological collaboration.
• Nuclear Assertiveness: India’s strategic independence was highlighted by the Atal bihari vajpayee government’s 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests. India continued to maintain a credible minimum deterrence posture in spite of international sanctions.
• Kargil War (1999): The Kargil War highlighted the difficulties posed by Pakistan’s acts and the necessity of strong defence plans.

Global Integration and Multi-Alignment in the 21^st Century (2000-Present)

1. During the Manmohan Singh Era (2004–2014), Singh’s administration prioritized investment and trade, particularly with the US, EU, and ASEAN.India’s energy security and strategic connection with the United States were reinforced by the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008). India was a major player in multilateral organizations that promoted South-South cooperation, including BRICS and IBSA.[1]
2. Narendra Modi Era (2014–present): Neighbourhood First Policy: Modi placed a high priority on ties with South Asian neighbours, striking a balance between assertiveness and collaboration, particularly with China and Pakistan. Act East Policy: Improved security and connectivity with ASEAN countries, strengthening the “Look East” effort.
3. Strategic Partnerships: – Improved ties with key powers, such as the United States, Russia, Japan, and European countries. In order to oppose China’s dominance in the Indo-Pacific, the Quad (Australia, Japan, the United States, and India) became a crucial alliance.
4. Border and Security Issues: Controlled tensions with China, particularly during the Galwan Valley conflict (2020) and the Doklam stalemate (2017). In Jammu and Kashmir (2019), Article 370 was revoked, sparking discussions around the world and raising tensions with Pakistan. The promotion of India’s cultural diplomacy and the use of the Indian diaspora to fortify bilateral ties are examples of Soft Power and Diaspora.

Key Trends in Indian Foreign Policy

1. From Non-Alignment to Multi-Alignment:  Important Developments in Indian Foreign Policy Although non-alignment was required during the Cold War, India has adopted a multi-alignment policy in the post-Cold War era, interacting with several states to protect its interests.
2. Economic and Strategic Prioritization: Initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and Digital India diplomacy demonstrate how economic growth and security concerns now dominate India’s foreign policy.
3. Assertiveness in Regional and Global Arenas: In keeping with its ambitions to lead the world, India has raised its voice on topics like terrorism, climate change, and maritime security.
4. Balancing Relationships: India maintains its strategic autonomy by balancing its relations with other nations, such as the United States and Russia or Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

From Nehru’s idealism, Indian foreign policy has developed into a practical, multi-aligned strategy that tackles today’s pressing global issues. Although it is based on historical values, it today represents India’s desire to have a greater impact on the world stage by striking a balance between strategic security, economic progress, and cultural influence.

[1] India-Brasil-South Africa Dialogue Forum (IBSA).