India’s strategic autonomy amid its relationship with the U.S. and Russia

Source: The post India’s strategic autonomy amid its relationship with the U.S. and Russia has been created, based on the article “India and a case for strategic autonomy” published in “The Hindu” on 18th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- international relations -Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Context: The article discusses India’s strategic autonomy amid its relationship with the U.S. and Russia. It explains that India’s approach to foreign policy allows it to make independent decisions despite global pressures. This autonomy helps India balance its ties with both Russia and the West.

For detailed information on Recalibrating the India-US relationship read this article here

What is the Current Tension Between India and the U.S.?

1. Recent Diplomatic Strains: The tension between India and the U.S. has escalated due to India’s neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict and its continued partnership with Russia.
2. U.S. Concerns: The U.S. expressed displeasure when India proceeded with Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Moscow, especially right before a NATO summit.
3. Strategic Autonomy Debate: U.S. officials, including Ambassador Eric Garcetti, criticized India’s concept of strategic autonomy, suggesting it’s ineffective during crises.
4. Economic and Defense Ties with Russia: India’s crude oil imports from Russia surged from $2.4 billion in 2021-22 to $46.5 billion in 2023-24. Over 40% of India’s defense imports come from Russia.

How Has India Maintained Its Strategic Autonomy?

1. Historical Roots: India’s strategic autonomy evolved from its non-alignment policy during the Cold War.
2. Neutral Position: India maintained neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, avoiding Western pressure.
3. Defense and Energy Ties: Despite global pressures, India imports over 40% of its defense equipment from Russia and significantly increased its oil imports from Russia.
4. Balanced Relationships: India engages with both Russia and Western countries to protect its interests.
5. Multilateral Approach: India supports a multilateral global order, ensuring its voice and that of the Global South are heard.

What is the Significance of India’s Relationship with Russia?

1. Continental Asia: India collaborates with Russia for economic progress, connectivity, and security in Eurasia.
2. Balancing China: India’s ties with Russia can act as a counterbalance to Russia’s growing relationship with China.
3. Strategic Autonomy: Maintaining this relationship allows India to pursue its own interests without aligning strictly with any major power bloc.

For detailed information on Significance of India’s Relationship with Russia read this article here

How Does India View Its Role in a Multipolar World?

1. Strategic Autonomy: India maintains strategic autonomy to navigate global relations based on its national interests, balancing ties with major powers like the U.S. and Russia.
2. Global Balancing Act: India’s approach aims to maintain neutrality and cooperation with different global powers, avoiding alignment with any specific bloc.
3. Positive-Sum Perspective: By promoting multilateral interactions, India supports a more inclusive global order, viewing international relations as opportunities for mutual benefit rather than competition.

Question for practice:

Discuss how India’s policy of strategic autonomy influences its relationships with both the United States and Russia.