Contemporary Relevance of India’s Foreign Policy

India’s foreign policy is shaped by its national interests, economic goals, security needs, and
global influence. In the 21st century, India's diplomatic approach is crucial due to its rising
economic power, geopolitical position, and role in global governance. Here’s why India’s
foreign policy remains highly relevant today:

1. Strengthening Global Ties

India actively engages with major global powers like the United States, Russia, European
Union, and Japan while maintaining strong ties with developing countries. This balance allows
India to secure trade agreements, defense cooperation, and technological partnerships.

2. Strategic Relations with Neighbors

India follows the “Neighborhood First” policy to improve relations with countries like Nepal,
Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. It also plays a key role in South Asian organizations like
SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal
Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation).

3. Handling China and Pakistan

India faces challenges from China’s aggressive border policies (e.g., Ladakh clashes) and
Pakistan’s support for cross-border terrorism. India counters these issues through diplomatic
efforts, military preparedness, and international pressure. The QUAD alliance (India, US,
Japan, Australia) also strengthens India’s security in the Indo-Pacific region.

4. Economic Growth and Trade Relations

India is a key player in global trade and investment. Policies like “Make in India” and Free
Trade Agreements (FTAs) attract foreign investment. India is also part of the G20 and actively
participates in BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), which boosts its global
economic standing.

5. Energy Security and Climate Change

India secures energy resources through partnerships with Middle Eastern nations, Russia, and
the US. It is also a leader in renewable energy and climate initiatives, such as the International
Solar Alliance (ISA) and net-zero carbon goals.
6. Digital and Technological Advancements

India is expanding its presence in global technology and innovation, working with the US,
European Union, and Japan on artificial intelligence, space exploration, and cybersecurity.
India’s 5G and semiconductor partnerships are also crucial for self-reliance in technology.

7. Role in Global Crises and Humanitarian Aid

India actively participates in global peacekeeping missions, provides humanitarian aid to crisis-
hit countries (e.g., vaccines during COVID-19), and supports disaster relief efforts in South Asia
and beyond.

8. Soft Power and Cultural Influence

India’s cultural diplomacy, including yoga, Bollywood, and traditional medicine (Ayurveda),
strengthens its global image. Initiatives like International Yoga Day and educational
exchanges enhance India’s soft power.

Conclusion

India’s foreign policy today focuses on economic growth, security, diplomacy, and global
leadership. With its increasing influence in global affairs, India continues to shape international
relations while balancing its national interests and global responsibilities.

Challenges to India’s Foreign Policy

India faces several challenges in its foreign policy due to its complex geopolitical position,
economic ambitions, and global responsibilities. Here are some key challenges with examples:

1. Border Conflicts with China and Pakistan

 China: The border standoff in Ladakh (Galwan Valley clash, 2020)

strained India-China relations. China’s increasing military presence in
Arunachal Pradesh and the Indian Ocean is also a concern.
 Pakistan: Cross-border terrorism and conflicts over Kashmir continue
to create tensions. Despite diplomatic efforts, terrorist attacks like the
Pulwama attack (2019) affect relations.

2. Balancing Relations with the US and Russia

 India has strong defense ties with Russia (e.g., buying S-400 missile
systems), but the US opposes such deals due to its rivalry with Russia.
  At the same time, India also depends on the US for trade,
technology, and defense cooperation, creating a diplomatic
balancing act.

3. China’s Influence in India’s Neighborhood

 China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has increased its presence in
Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives, making it harder for India to
maintain regional influence.
 Example: China funded Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port, leading to Sri
Lanka leasing it to China for 99 years.

4. Energy Security and Dependence on Imports

 India imports over 85% of its oil from countries like Russia, Saudi
Arabia, and Iran. Global crises (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war) affect oil
prices, impacting India’s economy.
 US sanctions on Iran make it difficult for India to buy Iranian oil,
increasing dependence on other suppliers.

5. Terrorism and Internal Security Issues

 Terrorist groups operating from Pakistan (e.g., Lashkar-e-Taiba,

Jaish-e-Mohammed) pose a security threat.
 Example: The 2008 Mumbai attacks and 2019 Pulwama attack
worsened India-Pakistan relations.

6. Trade and Economic Challenges

 India is not part of RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic

Partnership), the world’s largest trade bloc, fearing competition for
Indian industries.
 Trade disputes with China (banning Chinese apps, border
tensions) impact economic ties.

7. Climate Change and Environmental Commitments

 India faces pressure to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining

economic growth.
 The commitment to achieve Net-Zero emissions by 2070 is
challenging due to high energy demands.
8. Immigration and Refugee Issues

 India deals with refugee crises from Myanmar (Rohingya refugees)

and Afghanistan (Taliban takeover, 2021), raising security and
humanitarian concerns.

Conclusion

India’s foreign policy must tackle security threats, economic challenges, global power
dynamics, and regional stability. Managing these challenges requires diplomacy, strategic
partnerships, and self-reliance in critical areas like defense, energy, and trade.

Look East vs. Act East Policy

India's foreign policy toward Southeast Asia has undergone a significant shift from Look East
Policy (1991) to Act East Policy (2014). Both policies focus on strengthening ties with East
and Southeast Asian nations, but their objectives, implementation, and impact differ.

1. Look East Policy (1991)

The Look East Policy was introduced in 1991 by Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao as part
of India’s economic liberalization strategy. The primary aim was to improve economic and
diplomatic relations with Southeast Asian nations, particularly the ASEAN (Association of
Southeast Asian Nations) members.

Key Features of Look East Policy:

1. Economic Growth Focus – Strengthened India’s trade relations with

ASEAN countries.
2. Diplomatic Engagement – Built strong political ties with Southeast
Asian nations.
3. Regional Integration – Encouraged India to become a part of ASEAN
regional forums.
4. Investment & Market Expansion – Allowed Indian companies to
explore new markets in Southeast Asia.
5. Limited Security Cooperation – While it improved diplomatic ties, it
did not focus much on defense or security.

Relevance of Look East Policy:

 Helped India expand trade with ASEAN, increasing bilateral trade

significantly.
 Strengthened regional cooperation, making India an ASEAN
dialogue partner.
  Allowed India to become a member of East Asia Summit (EAS),
ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal
Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic
Cooperation).
 However, the policy lacked strategic depth and was passive,
focusing mainly on economic ties rather than security concerns.

2. Act East Policy (2014)

Recognizing the need for a more proactive foreign policy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi
launched the Act East Policy in 2014. This policy retained the economic focus of Look East
but expanded into security, defense, and strategic partnerships with a broader set of
countries.

Key Features of Act East Policy:

1. Proactive Engagement – Shifts from a passive policy to an active

and results-driven approach.
2. Strategic and Security Ties – Strengthens defense and military
cooperation with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the US
(QUAD).
3. Maritime and Indo-Pacific Security – Focuses on securing India’s
maritime interests, countering China's growing influence in the
South China Sea.
4. Regional Connectivity – Expands infrastructure projects like the
India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan
Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project.
5. Economic Growth and Trade Expansion – Encourages deeper
trade and investment partnerships beyond ASEAN to include
countries like Japan and Australia.
6. Cultural and People-to-People Relations – Promotes cultural
diplomacy, tourism, and student exchanges to strengthen India's soft
power in the region.

Relevance of Act East Policy:

 Strengthens India’s strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific

region.
 Expands India’s defense and security cooperation, especially in naval
exercises with ASEAN, Japan, and Australia.
 Encourages connectivity projects that improve regional trade and
investment.
 Balances China's influence by engaging in QUAD (India, US, Japan,
Australia).
  Increases diplomatic, cultural, and economic exchanges, making
India a key regional player.

3. Key Differences Between Look East & Act East Policy

4. Conclusion
The transition from the Look East Policy to the Act East Policy reflects India's shift from a
regional trading partner to a strategic global player. While Look East focused on diplomatic
and economic ties, Act East is action-oriented, strengthening security, trade, and regional
connectivity. This shift highlights India's commitment to becoming a key force in the Indo-
Pacific region while balancing economic growth with geopolitical interests.

Transition from Panchsheel to Panchamrit & Their Differences

India’s foreign policy has evolved over time, adapting to global changes. Two key principles that
define this evolution are Panchsheel (1954) and Panchamrit (2015).

1. What is Panchsheel?
Panchsheel (Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence) was an agreement between India and
China in 1954. It focused on non-interference, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence in
international relations.

Five Principles of Panchsheel:

1. Mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity

2. Non-aggression
3. Non-interference in each other’s internal affairs
4. Equality and mutual benefit
5. Peaceful coexistence

Relevance of Panchsheel:

 Helped India establish non-alignment during the Cold War.

 Promoted peaceful diplomatic relations with neighbors.
 Used as a foundation for India’s global diplomatic policies.

However, despite its peaceful approach, China’s actions in the 1962 war weakened trust in the
policy.
2. What is Panchamrit?
Panchamrit (Five Principles of India’s Foreign Policy) was introduced by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi in 2015. It represents a modern and proactive approach to diplomacy.

Five Elements of Panchamrit:

1. Samman (Respect): Equal and respectful relations with all countries.

2. Samvad (Dialogue): Open communication and cooperation.
3. Samriddhi (Prosperity): Economic growth through trade and
investment.
4. Suraksha (Security): National security and defense cooperation.
5. Sanskriti evam Sabhyata (Culture & Civilization): Promoting
India’s cultural and spiritual heritage worldwide.

Relevance of Panchamrit:

 Strengthens India’s global influence in economic and security

matters.
 Encourages stronger strategic partnerships (e.g., QUAD, G20,
BRICS).
 Focuses on self-reliance, trade, and cultural diplomacy in the
modern world.

3. Key Differences Between Panchsheel & Panchamrit

Conclusion
India’s foreign policy has evolved from Panchsheel’s passive diplomacy to Panchamrit’s
active engagement. While Panchsheel focused on peace and non-interference, Panchamrit is
about global leadership, security, and economic growth. This transition shows India's shift
from a neutral power to a strategic global player.

For a 15-mark question, you need to write a more detailed and well-structured answer,
covering all aspects in depth while maintaining clarity. Since you need to write at least 2 to 2.5
pages, you can expand the response by:

1. Adding more background information – Explain the historical

context of both Panchsheel and Panchamrit in greater detail.
2. Including more examples – Provide specific instances of India's
application of these principles.
3. Comparing both policies more extensively – Highlight their
differences in terms of India's changing global role.
 4. Discussing challenges and criticisms – Mention the limitations of
both policies and how they have evolved over time.
5. Conclusion with contemporary relevance – Explain how
Panchamrit aligns with India’s current foreign policy goals.

Expanded Answer for a 15-Mark Question

Introduction: Evolution of India’s Foreign Policy

India’s foreign policy has always been guided by principles of peace, cooperation, and global
engagement. Over the years, it has evolved from Panchsheel (1954), which emphasized non-
alignment and peaceful coexistence, to Panchamrit (2015), which focuses on India’s active
role in global diplomacy, security, and economic prosperity.

This transition reflects India’s changing position in global politics—from a newly independent
nation promoting peace and sovereignty to an assertive and strategically engaged power in
the 21st century.

1. Panchsheel: The Foundation of India’s Foreign Policy

The Panchsheel Agreement was signed between India and China on April 29, 1954, and later
became the foundation of India’s Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) during the Cold War.

The Five Principles of Panchsheel:

1. Mutual Respect for Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity – No country should

interfere in another’s borders.
o Example: India’s early support for Asian and African
countries' independence movements.

2. Mutual Non-Aggression – Nations should not engage in war or aggression.

o Example: India's peaceful resolution of conflicts with Sri Lanka
and Nepal.

3. Mutual Non-Interference in Internal Affairs – Countries should respect each other’s

domestic policies.
o Example: India’s neutral stance on internal issues of other
nations.

4. Equality and Mutual Benefit – Nations should engage in fair trade and cooperation.
o Example: Early India-Soviet economic and defense
cooperation.
 5. Peaceful Coexistence – Living in harmony despite political differences.
o Example: India’s diplomatic ties with both the US and the
USSR during the Cold War.

Impact and Limitations of Panchsheel:

 Strengthened India’s diplomatic relations with Asia and Africa.

 Helped in decolonization efforts and made India a respected voice
in world affairs.
 However, China violated Panchsheel by invading India in 1962,
showing that peaceful principles alone were not enough to
safeguard national security.

2. Transition to Panchamrit: A More Strategic Approach

Realizing the need for a more proactive and globally engaged foreign policy, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi introduced Panchamrit in 2015. This approach aimed at strengthening
India’s economic, diplomatic, security, and cultural influence.

The Five Pillars of Panchamrit:

1. Samman (Respect): Ensuring mutual respect in international relations.

o Example: India's diplomatic partnerships with the US,
Russia, and EU on equal terms.

2. Samvad (Dialogue): Engaging in negotiations and peaceful discussions.

o Example: India’s leadership in climate change discussions
and strategic dialogues with QUAD nations (India, US,
Japan, Australia).

3. Samriddhi (Prosperity): Strengthening global trade and investment.

o Example: Act East Policy promoting economic ties with ASEAN,
Japan, and South Korea.

4. Suraksha (Security): Strengthening India’s national security and defense alliances.

o Example: India’s strong stand against terrorism, cross-
border security initiatives, and participation in maritime
security agreements.

5. Sanskriti & Sabhyata (Culture & Civilization): Promoting Indian culture and values
globally.
o Example: International Yoga Day, soft power diplomacy, and
Indian diaspora engagement.
3. Key Differences Between Panchsheel and Panchamrit

4. Challenges and Criticism of Panchamrit

 India’s relations with neighbors like Pakistan and China remain

tense.
 Security concerns, including border disputes and terrorism,
challenge India's diplomatic efforts.
 Some critics argue that India's foreign policy should be more
independent and not influenced by major powers like the US and
Russia.

5. Contemporary Relevance of Panchamrit

 India’s G20 Presidency (2023) showcased its leadership in global

governance.
 QUAD and Indo-Pacific strategy highlight India’s growing security
role.
 Make in India and economic partnerships boost India's global
economic position.
 Strengthening ties with African nations expands India’s
diplomatic reach.

6. Conclusion

The shift from Panchsheel to Panchamrit represents India’s foreign policy transformation
from a peace-focused, non-aligned approach to a strategic and globally engaged policy.
While Panchsheel laid the foundation for India’s diplomatic values, Panchamrit aligns with
modern geopolitical realities, ensuring India’s economic, security, and cultural influence
worldwide.

This evolution reflects India’s journey from an emerging nation to a key player in global
affairs.
Modi Doctrine

The Modi Doctrine refers to the approach taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in shaping
India’s foreign policy since 2014. It focuses on strengthening India's global position through
strategic partnerships, economic growth, and regional leadership.

Key Features of the Modi Doctrine

1. Neighborhood First Policy

o Strengthening ties with neighboring countries like Nepal,
Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
o Example: India provided COVID-19 vaccines to neighboring
nations under the Vaccine Maitri initiative.

2. Act East Policy

o Enhancing economic and security ties with Southeast Asian
and East Asian countries.
o Example: Strengthened trade and defense relations with Japan,
Vietnam, and ASEAN nations.

3. Strong Relations with Major Powers

o Deepening strategic partnerships with the United States,
Russia, European Union, and Gulf countries.
o Example: India signed major defense deals like the S-400
missile system agreement with Russia.

4. Strengthening Global Image

o Promoting India as a leading global power through active
participation in G20, BRICS, QUAD, and SCO.
o Example: India hosted the G20 Summit in 2023, showcasing its
leadership in global affairs.

5. Self-Reliance and Economic Growth (Atmanirbhar Bharat)

o Focus on domestic manufacturing, trade, and digital
economy.
o Example: Promoting Make in India to reduce dependence on
imports.

6. Soft Power Diplomacy

o Using India’s cultural heritage, yoga, Ayurveda, and
Bollywood for diplomatic influence.
o Example: International Yoga Day (June 21) was declared by
the United Nations in 2014 due to India's efforts.
 7. Strong Defense and Security Policy
o Strengthening national security through military
modernization and strategic alliances.
o Example: Surgical strikes (2016) and Balakot airstrikes
(2019) against terror camps in Pakistan.

Conclusion

The Modi Doctrine is a blend of pragmatism, assertiveness, and economic diplomacy. It

focuses on making India a global leader while maintaining strong regional influence.
Through initiatives like Act East, Neighborhood First, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, Modi’s
foreign policy has positioned India as a rising power on the world stage.

Key Changes in India’s Foreign Policy Since Prime Minister

Narendra Modi’s Regime

Since 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy has brought significant changes
to India's global strategy. His approach focuses on strengthening India’s position as a global
power, improving regional ties, and balancing relations with major countries.

1. From "Look East" to "Act East"

 The Look East Policy (1991) focused on improving ties with
Southeast Asian nations.
 Modi transformed it into Act East Policy, emphasizing stronger
economic, defense, and strategic partnerships.
 Example: India strengthened ties with Japan, Vietnam, and ASEAN
nations, including defense agreements.

2. "Neighborhood First" Policy

 Modi prioritized stronger relations with South Asian neighbors
like Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka.
 Focus on economic cooperation, connectivity, and security
partnerships.
 Example: India resolved long-standing border disputes with Bangladesh
through the Land Boundary Agreement (2015).
3. Strengthening Global Alliances
 India improved ties with the US, Russia, the European Union, and
Gulf nations.
 Example:
o India-US relations strengthened through defense deals,
trade agreements, and the QUAD alliance.
o India-Russia ties remained strong with the purchase of S-400
missile systems.

4. Assertive Stand on National Security

 Modi’s foreign policy is more assertive and proactive in responding
to security threats.
 Example:
o 2016 Surgical Strikes: Indian forces attacked terror camps in
Pakistan after the Uri attack.
o 2019 Balakot Airstrikes: India carried out airstrikes after the
Pulwama terrorist attack.

5. Stronger Engagement with the Gulf & Middle East

 Strengthened diplomatic and economic ties with UAE, Saudi Arabia,
and Iran.
 Example:
o UAE awarded Modi its highest civilian honor in 2019.
o India invested in Iran’s Chabahar Port to improve connectivity
to Central Asia.

6. Economic and Trade Diplomacy

 Focus on Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) to boost
domestic manufacturing.
 India actively participates in global economic groups like G20,
BRICS, and WTO.
 Example: Modi promoted Make in India, Digital India, and Startup
India to attract foreign investments.
7. Leading Role in Global Climate & Health Initiatives
 India has taken leadership in climate action and global health
crises.
 Example:
o International Solar Alliance (ISA) was launched with France
to promote solar energy.
o Vaccine Maitri Initiative (2021): India supplied COVID-19
vaccines to over 90 countries.

8. Strengthening Soft Power Diplomacy

 India uses yoga, Ayurveda, culture, and Bollywood to increase
global influence.
 Example: International Yoga Day (June 21) was declared by the
United Nations in 2014 due to Modi’s efforts.

Conclusion

Since Modi’s regime, India’s foreign policy has become more assertive, strategic, and globally
engaged. His government focuses on regional leadership, strong global alliances, economic
growth, and national security. With initiatives like Act East, Neighborhood First, and
Atmanirbhar Bharat, Modi has positioned India as a rising global power.

India’s Nuclear Doctrine

India’s nuclear doctrine defines its policy on the use of nuclear weapons. It was officially
adopted in 2003 and is based on principles of deterrence and responsible use.

1. Key Principles of India’s Nuclear Doctrine

1. No First Use (NFU):

o India will not use nuclear weapons first but will retaliate if
attacked.

2. Credible Minimum Deterrence (CMD):

o India maintains only the necessary nuclear weapons to deter
enemies.
 3. Massive Retaliation:
o If attacked with nuclear weapons, India will respond with a
massive counterstrike.

4. Civilian Control:
o The Nuclear Command Authority (NCA), led by the Prime
Minister, controls nuclear weapons.

5. Non-Proliferation Commitment:
o India does not transfer nuclear technology to other
countries.

2. Significance of India’s Nuclear Doctrine

 Ensures strategic stability in South Asia.

 Reinforces India’s image as a responsible nuclear power.
 Acts as a deterrent against China and Pakistan.

3. Challenges and Criticism

 Some argue that No First Use may make India vulnerable to a first
strike.
 Changing regional threats (like Pakistan’s tactical nuclear weapons)
have led to debates on policy revision.

4. Conclusion

India’s nuclear doctrine is based on deterrence, responsible use, and global peace. It balances
security needs while preventing an arms race.

India’s Nuclear Doctrine

India’s nuclear doctrine is a set of policies and principles that guide the country’s approach to
nuclear weapons. It was officially adopted in 2003 and is based on the principles of deterrence,
non-aggression, and responsible use. India developed nuclear weapons primarily for self-
defense and to ensure national security against external threats.

1. Key Principles of India’s Nuclear Doctrine

1. No First Use (NFU):

o India has a No First Use policy, meaning it will not use
nuclear weapons unless attacked first with nuclear
weapons.
 o This establishes India as a responsible nuclear power and
differentiates it from other nuclear nations that keep a first-strike
option open.

2. Credible Minimum Deterrence (CMD):

o India maintains only a minimum number of nuclear weapons
required for deterrence.
o The idea is to prevent war rather than engage in an arms race.

3. Massive Retaliation:
o If India is attacked with nuclear weapons, it will respond with a
massive and devastating counterstrike to cause
unacceptable damage to the aggressor.
o This discourages enemy nations from using nuclear weapons
against India.

4. Civilian Control Over Nuclear Weapons:

o India’s nuclear weapons are under the control of the Nuclear
Command Authority (NCA), which is led by the Prime
Minister.
o This ensures that decisions about nuclear weapons are taken
responsibly and not under military pressure.

5. Commitment to Non-Proliferation:
o India follows a strict policy of not transferring nuclear
technology to any other country.
o Although India is not a part of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation
Treaty (NPT), it follows global norms of peaceful nuclear use.

2. Objectives and Significance of India’s Nuclear Doctrine

 Prevents War: The doctrine acts as a deterrent against countries

like Pakistan and China, reducing the chances of nuclear conflict.
 Maintains Strategic Stability: India’s NFU policy ensures balance
in the region and promotes peace.
 Enhances India’s Global Image: By adopting a responsible
approach, India is seen as a mature nuclear power, unlike countries
that threaten first strikes.
 Encourages Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy: India has used
nuclear technology for energy, medical, and scientific
advancements, not just for weapons.
3. Challenges and Criticism

Despite its strengths, India's nuclear doctrine faces some challenges:

1. Pakistan’s Tactical Nuclear Weapons:

o Pakistan has small tactical nuclear weapons that can be used
on the battlefield.
o There is a debate on whether India’s policy should be modified
to address such threats.

2. China’s Growing Nuclear Arsenal:

o China has a more advanced nuclear program with long-range
missiles and a stronger second-strike capability.
o India needs to upgrade its nuclear delivery systems to
maintain balance.

3. Debate on No First Use Policy:

o Some experts argue that India should change its NFU policy to
allow a first strike in case of an imminent nuclear threat.
o Others believe NFU keeps India’s moral and strategic
credibility intact.

4. Conclusion

India’s nuclear doctrine reflects a responsible and defensive approach to nuclear weapons. It
ensures national security while maintaining regional stability. Although challenges exist, the
policy has helped India establish itself as a strong yet peaceful nuclear power. Discussions on
modernizing and refining the doctrine continue, but its core principles remain rooted in
deterrence, peace, and strategic stability.