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Source: The post India’s foreign policy language has shifted from being defensive to more assertive and confident has been created, based on the article “How Delhi talks to world” published in “Indian express” on 27th March 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
News: The article discusses how India’s foreign policy language is becoming more confident as the country grows stronger economically and militarily. However, this new approach isn’t fully embraced by all politicians yet, and the Opposition should focus on constructive debate about India’s development and global role.
How has India’s foreign policy language evolved?
In India’s foreign policy language has shifted from being defensive to more assertive and confident. This change reflects India’s growing global stature and economic progress.
Examples of this change include India’s approach in the India-US nuclear deal in mid 2000s. At that time, India was concerned that a close relationship with US will result in loss of “strategic autonomy“, but now India has much closer relationship with the US. The shift from seeing strategic autonomy as merely freedom from major powers’ influence to leveraging India’s own power marks a significant evolution in its foreign policy thinking.
The evolution in language also reflects in new terms like “leading power,” “net security provider,” and “first responder” to regional crises, indicating a proactive stance in global affairs.
For information on India‘s foreign policy read here
What is the role of the political class in this change?
Adaptation to New Diplomatic Language: The political class, including the Opposition, is slow in embracing India’s evolving assertive foreign policy language. Persistent resistance exists among politicians and intellectuals to viewing India as a major power.
Contribution to India’s Growth: Political parties, including the Opposition, have contributed to India’s growth, being part of coalition governments since 1991. The Opposition’s role is now to engage constructively in shaping India’s path to development.
Debating India’s Future Goals: There is a need for focused political debate on ambitious goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, as outlined by the India’s government.
What responsibilities come with India’s growth?
As India’s power grows, it faces more responsibilities in shaping the regional and global order.
India’s role includes contributing to regional security, managing global commons, setting rules for international commerce, and influencing international institutions.
References to India as a “leading power”, “Vishwa Mitra”, and “net security provider” highlight its evolving responsibilities.
What are the challenges ahead?
- Despite India’s growing economy, its low per capita income highlights developmental challenges.
- Becoming a developed country by 2047 is a goal set by the India’s current government, a challenging yet inspiring target.
- Achieving a per capita income of $12,000 by 2047, from the current less than $3000, requires substantial economic growth.
- These challenges include formulating effective economic strategies and industrial policies.
- Addressing issues like inequality and environmental degradation is crucial for sustainable development.
- Navigating a changing global order presents complex questions for India’s international strategy.
Question for practice:
Examine how India’s evolving foreign policy language reflects its growing global stature and the role of the political class.
