Anushka Singh points out that India’s foreign policy has evolved over a period of time, with focus on non-alignment and strategic autonomy shaping its relations with other countries. Dwelling on its foundational principles, she says these — non-alignment, strategic autonomy, and historical and cultural ties — are enshrined in the Constitution of India, providing a guiding framework for the nation’s diplomatic engagements with other nations.
The foundations of India’s foreign policy are deeply embedded in its history, culture, and the pursuit of independence and sovereignty. Examining the principles shaping India’s foreign policy reveals a steadfast commitment to non-alignment and strategic autonomy, both of which have played pivotal roles in shaping the nation’s diplomatic relations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for an Aatmanirbhar Bharat is a reinforcement of India’s self-reliant and sovereign identity. Non-alignment, initially adopted during the Cold War, emphasised India’s autonomy from the power blocs of that era. This has evolved into the concept of strategic autonomy, placing a premium on self-sufficiency and independent decision-making, shielding Indian choices from external pressures.
The role of cultural ties is another foundational aspect of India’s foreign relations. Culture serves as a means to assert identity, cultivate enduring connections, and foster mutual understanding and respect with other nations. India’s strong advocacy for racial equality, coupled with its rich cultural heritage, significantly influences its approach to international relations.
The foundational principles
India’s foreign policy has evolved over time, with a focus on non-alignment and strategic autonomy shaping its relations with other countries. These foreign policy principles – non-alignment, strategic autonomy, and historical and cultural ties – are enshrined in the Constitution of India, providing a guiding framework for the nation’s diplomatic engagements with other nations.
The foundations of India’s foreign policy can be understood through the following key principles:
Strategic Autonomy: This principle has emerged as a new foreign policy principle, billed as a ‘mutation of realism and India’s traditional non-aligned posture.’ Strategic autonomy prioritises self-sufficiency and independence in decision-making, keeping it insulated from external pressures. It was after the Cold War that strategic autonomy went on gain emphasis. Following the 1998 nuclear weapons tests, strategic autonomy was frequently used by Indian officials to signal that India, a non-signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, would not be subject to the same rules as other nuclear-armed states.
Non-alignment: This principle guided India’s foreign policy for decades after independence in 1947. It was considered a ‘central component of Indian identity in global politics’ and aimed to position India as a leader of the Non-Aligned Movement. Today, India is maintaining productive relationships with nations from opposing camps. As External Affairs Minister Jaishankar maintains, India’s strategic autonomy can sometimes irritate the United States, but this should not prevent both countries from pursuing their complementary interests without undue interference.
Role of Historical and Cultural Ties: India’s foreign policy is influenced by its history and culture, which have played a significant role in shaping its relations with other countries. Culture has been used as a way for India to assert its identity, build lasting relationships, and promote mutual understanding and respect with other nations. India’s firm belief in racial equality and its rich cultural heritage have influenced its approach to international relations.
Influence on domestic politics
India’s foreign policy has a significant impact on its domestic politics. Domestic concerns, such as economic development, geographic location, transactional necessities, and India’s place in the international order, are key variables. India’s foreign policy is also influenced by structural domestic factors that pre-date the current government. The limitations of foreign policy are sometimes linked to factors at home.
Domestic politics can also sweep aside the normal foreign policy process, making room for unpredictability, and can influence foreign policy decisions. This can also affect response to foreign-policy challenges when they arise. India’s foreign policy decisions have been influenced by domestic politics in several instances.
One of the paramount domestic concerns that shape any nation’s foreign policy is economic development. The nation’s pursuit of economic growth and prosperity is intricately linked to its engagement with the international community. Trade agreements, investment opportunities, and economic partnerships form a critical dimension of India’s foreign policy and diplomatic initiatives, reflecting its commitment to fostering economic well-being at home.
India’s strategic location in South Asia influences its relations with neighbouring countries and shapes its approach to regional stability. Geographic considerations, including border disputes and security concerns, significantly impact the nation’s diplomatic strategies.
Today, the quest for a prominent role in the international order is a constant driver of foreign policy formulation. India is a global power now and seeks recognition and influence on the world stage. Balancing its national interests with global responsibilities, the foreign policy decisions are shaped by its aspirations for a seat at the decision-making table in international forums.
The interplay between domestic politics and foreign policy introduces an element of unpredictability. When foreign policy issues become entangled in domestic politics, decisions can rapidly escalate to the highest echelons of power. This unpredictability poses challenges for consistent and strategic foreign policy formulation and is a cause of concern for any nation.
Diplomatic agility
India’s foreign policy is not static but exhibits a notable degree of diplomatic agility in addressing contemporary challenges. The alignment of India’s foreign policy with its domestic concerns in these areas underscores the government’s commitment to cooperative solutions on the world stage, while maintaining self-reliance and sovereignty.
A critical aspect is the consideration of public perception and the projection of soft power. Public sentiment at home and abroad can influence foreign policy decisions, necessitating a delicate balance between popular expectations and strategic imperatives.
The rise of new power centers, geopolitical shifts, and the evolving global order will shape the trajectory of India’s diplomatic engagements. The ability to anticipate and adeptly respond to these changes will be pivotal in safeguarding domestic interests and contributing to global stability.
India’s rich cultural heritage continues to serve as a powerful tool in diplomacy that has domestic acceptance as well. Cultural exchanges, educational collaborations, and the promotion of yoga and traditional Indian arts contribute to soft diplomacy. This approach builds bridges of understanding, fostering goodwill and promoting India’s image as a cultural and knowledge center.
India actively participates in international efforts to preserve cultural heritage, especially in the context of UNESCO. Collaborative projects, educational initiatives, and the promotion of cultural diversity contribute to its role as a custodian of global cultural heritage and its commitment to fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Protecting domestic interests
Economic reforms, including the ‘Make In India’ initiative, aim to position India as a global manufacturing hub and are on the lines of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, protecting domestic interests and furthering self-reliance. Investment diplomacy involves attracting foreign investments, facilitating ease of doing business, and fostering partnerships that contribute to economic growth and job creation at the home front.
Given the global focus on sustainable development, India’s emphasis on renewable energy diplomacy is noteworthy. International collaborations, participation in climate summits, and initiatives like the International Solar Alliance underline India’s commitment to clean energy solutions and its role as a responsible actor in addressing climate change. These not only nurture diplomatic ties with other nations but also ensure energy and food security domestically.
Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of the time that has not spared any nation on the planet. India’s foreign policy extends to capacity building and humanitarian assistance. Training programmes, educational scholarships, and disaster relief efforts contribute to India’s soft power and exemplify its commitment to supporting nations in their socio-economic development and resilience against natural calamities.
The 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) that was held in Dubai in 2023, India brought the attention of the world to the need for urgent action against global warming. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the inequity of climate impact and India’s call for climate justice and India’s position as a leader of the Global South.