Introduction: A New Government and Continuity in Foreign Policy
On June 9, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's new government was sworn in, marking the first time in a decade that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) missed the majority mark.
Despite the coalition government affecting domestic policies, continuity in foreign policy is expected. S Jaishankar, continuing as the Foreign Minister, aims to make India a "leading power," aligning with the BJP’s vision of India as Vishvabandhu — a friend of the world, prioritizing national interests.
Political Landscape: India’s Stance on Global Issues
At the Bratislava Forum in June 2022, Jaishankar shifted the political narrative by stating, “Europe’s problems are the world’s problems but the world’s problems are not Europe’s problems,” a sentiment echoed by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. This reflects India’s goodwill and neutral stance, which has served well despite geopolitical changes.
Economic Growth and Global Trade
India’s narrative for the next five years will focus on its 8.2% GDP growth, entry into global trade regimes, and the digital model.
The challenge for Jaishankar is to balance the political with the economic.
Continuity in Regional Relationships
South Asia: At the new government’s inauguration, India’s neighbors, except Pakistan, were present, indicating a push for greater economic integration and geopolitical cohesion in the region.
Global South: India’s G20 presidency in 2023 highlighted its focus on the Global South, including the African Union's inclusion in the G20. Initiatives like the Dakshin Development and Knowledge Sharing Initiative Global South Centre for Excellence aim to foster knowledge-sharing and capacity-building.
Relationships with Great Powers
United States and Russia: India maintains a 2+2 ministerial dialogue with both, balancing political engagement and imports of oil and defense equipment from Russia.
China: Despite tensions and China’s refusal to withdraw troops from India’s northern border, India has managed to avoid war.
G7 Countries: India is close to Japan, France, the UK, Italy, and Germany, and has been a permanent invitee to G7 summits since 2019.
Multilateral Groupings: India is part of various groupings like G20, Quad, SCO, BRICS, I2U2, and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, enhancing its global influence.
Shifts in Economic Engagement
India’s global conversation needs to transition from political to economic. The Make in India initiative and professionalizing supply chains are key to positioning India as a trusted alternative to China.
India’s digital public infrastructure model is promoted globally. With Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal retaining his position, India is expected to enter more trade agreements.
Corporate India is encouraged to invest in manufacturing and services beyond IT, with the Telugu Desam Party focusing on developing Amaravati as a tech hub.
Role of Ambassadors and Middle Powers
Indian ambassadors are now tasked with attracting investments, with commercial attachés playing a crucial role.
The last five years of instability (COVID-19, Russia-Ukraine war, Gaza conflict) have highlighted the importance of middle powers like India, Australia, South Korea, and Turkey in global stability.
India’s Position in a Multipolar World
India aims for economic and financial progress and just global governance, reflecting the emerging multipolar world order. By remaining anchored, India helps stabilize the global system.
Modi’s first overseas trip in his third term was to Italy for the G7 meeting, followed by the SCO summit in July and the BRICS summit in October in Russia.
Conclusion: India’s Central Role in Global Shifts
India’s goal is economic and financial progress and just global governance. This reflects the emerging multipolar world order, with neither the “exorbitant privilege” of dollar domination nor the reserve-currency obsession of the Yuan. India is central to ongoing global shifts, and by keeping itself anchored, it helps keep the world steady.
Note: In this CAPF essay on India’s New Foreign Policy, the world limit has been crossed to give you more information, you can take relevant portions as per your need. Further, we have given subheadings for your reference. When you write in the UPSC exam, you don't need to do that.
Relevance for UPSC CAPF AC Exam and Other Competitive Exams
Understanding India’s new foreign policy challenges and its role in global economics and politics is crucial for aspirants of UPSC CSE, UPSC CAPF, and other competitive exams.
The strategic balance between political stability and economic growth is a significant aspect of essay writing, current affairs, and interview preparation.
Familiarity with India’s geopolitical stance and its economic initiatives will provide a comprehensive understanding necessary for UPSC CAPF AC essay topics 2024, UPSC CAPF AC exam preparation, current affairs, and CAPF AC syllabus 2024.
This knowledge is also vital for CDS, NDA, SSB Interview, AFCAT, IAS, IB ACIO, and other exams focusing on national and international developments.
Comments