IGNOUMATIC

India’s foreign policy is based on a set of clear and consistent objectives aimed at safeguarding its national interests, promoting regional stability, and enhancing its global stature. Since its independence in 1947, India has pursued an independent and non-aligned foreign policy, focusing on peace, development, and the welfare of its people. The primary objectives of Indian foreign policy can be outlined as follows:

1.1 National Security:

The foremost objective of India’s foreign policy has been to secure its territorial integrity and sovereignty. India has faced territorial disputes with neighboring countries, particularly with Pakistan and China. As such, ensuring national security remains central to India’s foreign policy. The need to safeguard its borders from external threats, deal with terrorism, and maintain peace and stability in the region is integral to India’s foreign policy objectives.

1.2 Economic Development:

India views its foreign policy as a tool to promote economic growth and development. India seeks to enhance its economic ties globally, ensuring access to markets, technology, and resources, particularly in a rapidly globalizing world. The promotion of trade and investment, as well as partnerships in various sectors such as information technology, energy, and manufacturing, is central to India’s foreign policy. It aims to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and collaborate on technological advancements.

1.3 Regional Peace and Stability:

India has always emphasized the importance of peace and stability in its immediate neighborhood. It works towards fostering strong bilateral and multilateral relations with its neighbors to maintain regional security and stability. India plays an active role in regional organizations like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

1.4 Non-Alignment and Global Cooperation:

India’s policy of non-alignment was a key aspect of its foreign policy during the Cold War. Even after the end of the Cold War, India continues to advocate for an independent foreign policy, free from the influence of major power blocs. It seeks to contribute to global peace and stability through diplomatic initiatives, peacekeeping operations, and active participation in multilateral institutions such as the United Nations (UN), World Trade Organization (WTO), and World Health Organization (WHO).

1.5 Promotion of Global South and Development:

India has always been a strong advocate for the developing world and the global South. It actively engages in the promotion of South-South cooperation and has been a proponent of international efforts to address issues such as poverty, climate change, and inequality. India seeks to reform global institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank to reflect the realities of the modern world and enhance the voice of developing nations.

1.6 Protection of Diaspora Interests:

India has one of the largest diasporas in the world. Protecting the interests of the Indian diaspora, particularly in the Gulf, the US, and Europe, is another key objective of its foreign policy. The government of India ensures that the rights and welfare of its citizens abroad are protected, and it uses diplomacy to address issues faced by the Indian community in different parts of the world.

1.7 Promoting Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy:

Since the 1970s, India has sought to develop nuclear capabilities for peaceful purposes. While it maintains a nuclear deterrent, India supports non-proliferation efforts and calls for global nuclear disarmament. At the same time, it has worked to secure nuclear energy cooperation with other countries, as evidenced by the India-US nuclear deal.

In conclusion, India’s foreign policy is centered on ensuring national security, fostering economic development, maintaining regional peace, and promoting global cooperation. India’s increasing prominence on the global stage is reflective of its strategic objectives, including maintaining independence, promoting peace, and championing the rights of developing nations.