A robust foreign policy safeguards national security, ensures sustainable economic development, promotes global peace and maintains regional stability, and protects & promotes India’s rich cultural heritage while connecting with over 35 million Indian diasporas (PIO and NRIs) spread worldwide.
From the Non-Alignment Movement to Modi’s Era, our foreign policies have evolved significantly. Therefore, we will explore ten notable developments in India’s foreign policy that every BA political science and international relations student must know.
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10 Key Ways India’s Foreign Policies Have Evolved Over the Last Decade
Emphasis on Strategic Autonomy with Pragmatism
India has transitioned from its historical non-aligned position to a pragmatic foreign policy emphasising national interests while preserving strategic autonomy. This balanced approach allows India to foster economic and security partnerships without being tied to any single power bloc, strengthening its global presence.
Students pursuing a ba political science or ba international relations at institutions like Chanakya University, widely regarded as the best private university in India, often study this nuanced shift in India’s diplomatic orientation.
Neighbourhood First Policy
The Modi government’s “Neighbourhood First” policy underscores India’s commitment to regional peace, stability, and economic integration by strengthening ties with South Asian and Indian Ocean neighbours such as Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. This regional focus is key for aspiring diplomats and analysts in BA International Relations programs.
Act East Policy
Through the Act East Policy, India has deepened its engagement with Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Emphasising economic collaboration, cultural exchange, and strategic alliances, this approach also serves to counterbalance China’s growing influence. Chanakya University provides a cutting-edge curriculum in international relations, preparing students to analyse such complex dynamics.
Balancing Relations with Major Powers
In today’s multipolar world, India has skillfully maintained and expanded relations with major global players—USA, Russia, EU, China, Israel, and others—even amid crises like the Russia-Ukraine War and the Israel-Gaza Conflict. This strategic balancing act is a critical area of study in both BA Political Science and BA International Relations programs at top institutions like Chanakya University.
Resolving Border Tensions and Enhancing Security Cooperation
The 2024 agreement with China on managing the Line of Actual Control (LAC) was a milestone in reducing post-Galwan tensions. India also has advanced defence partnerships with the US and Quad allies. Such developments are crucial for students learning about geopolitical strategy and national security.
Elevating India’s Role in Global Governance
India has evolved from a passive participant to an assertive voice in global governance. With active campaigns for a permanent UN Security Council seat and leadership in amplifying Global South concerns, India positions itself as a global rule-shaper—an essential theme in BA Political Science curricula at leading institutions.
Climate Diplomacy and Sustainable Development Leadership
India’s proactive stance on climate change—through the Paris Agreement, International Solar Alliance, and ambitious green energy goals—has solidified its role as a responsible global actor. Students at the best private university in India, such as Chanakya University, examine how environmental diplomacy intersects with global politics.
Diaspora Diplomacy
The Indian government has turned the global Indian diaspora into a strategic diplomatic asset. By strengthening cultural and economic ties with overseas Indian communities, India has bolstered its global influence—an emerging area of interest in modern international relations education.
Expanding Economic Diplomacy and Development Partnerships
India has pursued deeper economic integration through trade deals, investments, and infrastructure projects like the Maitree Power Plant in Bangladesh. These partnerships enhance India’s regional and global economic influence, often featured in real-world case studies for BA International Relations students.
Humanitarian and Mediation Role
India has enhanced its image as a global humanitarian and peacebuilding force—delivering aid to nations like Türkiye and Ukraine and contributing to maritime security in piracy-affected regions like Somalia. This “Vishwabandhu” or “Friend to the World” identity aligns with India’s evolving soft power strategy.
Conclusion
India’s foreign policy over the past decade reflects a shift toward strategic assertiveness, pragmatic diplomacy, and global responsibility. These changes are shaping a new generation of leaders and thinkers—many of whom are being trained at institutions like Chanakya University, which is recognised as the best private university in India for programs like BA Political Science and BA International Relations.