Indian Foreign Policy

Pointers

Questions in Mains Paper 2: Ques No 9,10 & 19,20

IR Needs - Quotes, Good Keywords

News

Indian Foreign Policy: A 9-Year Review

Views of S. Jaishankar: A comprehensive look into the perspectives and strategies of S. Jaishankar regarding India's foreign policy over the past nine years.

Geopolitical Tensions

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: An ongoing political and military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with both nations having deep historical ties and disputes.

Chinese Assertiveness in the South China Sea: China's aggressive territorial claims and activities in the South China Sea have raised concerns among neighboring countries and global powers.

Tensions in Specific Regions:

West Asia (Arab-Israel): Persistent conflicts and tensions between Arab nations and Israel, rooted in historical, religious, and territorial disputes.

Africa (Sudan): Political instability and civil unrest in Sudan, are influenced by both internal and external factors.

Emerging Global Order

The Two-Block Problem:

Description: The world seems to be dividing into two major blocks. One is led by the USA and Western European countries, while the other is led by Russia and China.

Comparison with the Cold War: This division is reminiscent of the Cold War era, leading some to term it the "New Cold War".

Concept of Global Order:

Definition: The global order refers to the distribution of power and authority on the international stage.

Evolution of Global Order:

Bipolar Era (Before 1990): Dominated by the USA and USSR, marked by geopolitical contestation.
Unipolar Era (Post 1990): After the disintegration of the USSR, the USA emerged as the dominant global power, leading to geoeconomic contestation.
Multipolar Era (Current): Multiple powers, including the USA, Russia, China, India, Japan, and Germany, play significant roles. This era is characterized by hyperglobalization, which benefited many nations as indicated in the MPI report. However, hyperglobalization also paved the way for deglobalization, with countries becoming wary of entirely open trade. For instance, the USA and European nations have expressed concerns about losing their strategic economies.

Polarity Dilemma (as discussed by C. Rajamohan): The shift from a bipolar world to a unipolar one and now to a multipolar one, with each phase having its unique challenges and dynamics.

Manifestations of the Changing Global Order

De-Americanisation vs. NATOisation:

De-Americanisation: Efforts to reduce the global influence of America.

NATOisation: A shift towards an alliance-based model, with NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) being a prime example. NATO is a security grouping of the US and its allied countries. Notably, Finland, traditionally a neutral country, has joined NATO.

Internationalization of the Rupee: An initiative to promote the Indian Rupee on the global stage, countering the dominance of the US dollar. This is seen as a way to prevent the use of the dollar to weaponize finance, such as through sanctions.

Weaponization of Energy: The strategic use of energy resources as a tool for political and economic leverage.

World of Loose Coalitions: The current global scenario is marked by flexible alliances based on mutual interests rather than rigid coalitions

Polarity Dilemma: Multiple Views on Global Polarity

Unipolar View:

Description: Some scholars believe that the world is becoming unipolar, with the USA emerging as the sole dominant power.

Reasoning:

The USA has shifted its focus from waging wars on other countries to concentrating on its own development and interests.

The technological and military prowess of the USA is currently unparalleled, making it a dominant force on the global stage.

Quote: "USA has stopped waging war but watching wars."

Bipolar View:

Description: Another perspective is that the world is bipolar, with two major powers: the USA and China.

Reasoning:

While the USA remains a dominant force, China is rapidly rising as a global power.

However, some argue that China's dominance is not yet at the level of the USA. For instance, China's recent expansions, such as establishing a base in Djibouti and naval bases in FIPPIC (Forum for India Pacific Cooperation), are just initial steps in its global strategy.

Counter to this, proponents highlight China's technological advancements, like its lead in 5G technology, bullet trains, and contributions to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4th IR), as evidence of its growing global influence.

Multipolar View:

Description: A third perspective suggests that the world is multipolar. While traditionally multipolarity implies equal power distribution among major actors, in this context, there are disparities in power levels.

Reasoning:

Multiple countries have significant influence on the global stage, but not all of them wield equal power. This creates a dynamic and complex global environment.

Heteropolar View:

Description: The fourth perspective posits that the world is becoming heteropolar.

Reasoning:

In a heteropolar world, power is not only held by state actors (countries) but also by non-state actors. For instance, major tech companies have amassed significant influence and power, rivaling that of some nations.

Indian Exceptionalism

Factors Affecting Indian Foreign Policy and the way Indian Case is different from Others

The 4 D’s by PM Modi

PM Emphasised 4 Factors that Makes Indian FP Strong

Democracy

Demography

Demand

Decisiveness

The 7 D's: Pillars of India's Strength

Democracy:

Overview: India is the world's largest democracy, and its democratic nature is one of its defining strengths.

Significance:

Jonah Blank's Perspective: Democracy's true test lies in a nation that is vast, diverse, and has a low income. If democracy can thrive in India, it can thrive anywhere.
Island of Democracy: Unlike "managed democracies" like Russia, India stands out as a genuine democracy. Managed democracies often have:

A strong presidency with weak institutions.

State control of media.

Control over elections.

An appearance of stability, but inherent instability due to weak institutions. This can be related to topics like regulatory bodies and corruption.

Demography:

Overview: India's demographic dividend is one of its major assets.

Details:

As per the UN's "State of World Population Report", India has surpassed China to become the most populous country.
68% of India's population is of working age (15 to 64).
India has signed mobility and migration agreements with countries like Australia and Russia, promoting the movement of its population and leveraging its demographic strength.

Diaspora:

Overview: The Indian diaspora plays a significant role in enhancing India's global influence.

Significance:

According to the World Migration Report 2022, India has the largest diaspora in the world.
India received inward remittances of over $111 billion.
The diaspora aids in increasing India's soft power and reach globally. Cohesive diaspora represents hard power, while outreach diaspora holds senior leadership positions in governments and companies globally.
Example: The Indian diaspora played a crucial role in the India-US civil nuclear deal.

Demand:

Overview: India's economic growth and potential make it an attractive market and investment destination.

Details:

India has surpassed the UK and is among the fastest-growing economies globally.
Policies like the Act East Policy and Free Trade Agreements have been initiated to leverage India's economic potential.

Defense:

Overview: India's defense capabilities contribute significantly to its hard power.

Details:

As per SIPRI (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute), India is the fourth-largest military spender after the US, China, and Russia.
India, once a net buyer of defense equipment, has started exporting some, enhancing its strategic autonomy.
Defense diplomacy includes the sale of equipment like the BrahMos missile.

Digitization:

Overview: India's advancements in science, technology, and digitization enhance its global standing.

Details:

India is becoming a significant player in the digital world through platforms like UPI and Aadhaar.
India's IT sector capabilities are being recognized globally, with companies establishing Global Capability Centers (GCC) in the country.
Space diplomacy, like selling South Asia satellites, and leveraging AI and ML due to vast data, are other aspects of this pillar.

Diplomacy (Overall):

Overview: India's soft power initiatives and diplomatic endeavors strengthen its global influence.

Details:

Initiatives like International Yoga Day, Buddhist diplomacy, and various cultural diplomacies enhance India's soft power.
Humanitarian aid diplomacy, as seen during events like earthquakes in Afghanistan and Syria, and vaccine diplomacy (Vaccine Maitri) further showcase India's global outreach.

5 Arcs by Ambassador Rajiv Sikri

Ambassador Rajiv Sikri has identified five significant arcs that play a crucial role in the geopolitical landscape. These arcs are:

Arc of Growth and Prosperity

Location: Primarily in the Northeast on the map.

Explanation: This arc represents regions that are experiencing rapid economic growth and development. The Northeast, in particular, is seen as a hub of potential prosperity, with opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration.

Arc of Energy

Location: Encompasses the Western regions, West Asia, Africa, and Central Asia.

Explanation: This arc signifies the areas rich in energy resources, such as oil and natural gas. These regions are vital for energy security and play a significant role in global energy trade and geopolitics.

Arc of Communication

Location: Primarily the sea lines of communication.

Explanation: Sea lines are critical for trade, transport, and strategic military movements. Being a part of the Indo-Pacific region gives a strategic advantage in controlling and safeguarding these communication lines.

Arc of Instability

Location: Primarily Afghanistan and Pakistan, also known as the Golden Crescent.

Explanation: This arc represents regions that are currently facing political instability, conflicts, or other challenges. The Golden Crescent, in particular, has been a hotspot for drug trafficking and has seen its share of geopolitical tensions.

Arc of Uncertainty

Location: Includes the Tibet and Xinjiang regions of China and areas like the Fergana Valley of Central Asia.

Explanation: These areas are marked by uncertain geopolitical futures due to various reasons, including territorial disputes, ethnic tensions, and strategic importance. The regions within this arc are often under close watch by global powers due to their potential to influence broader geopolitical dynamics.

Asian Power Index Report

Asian Power Index by Lowy Institute of Australia

The Lowy Institute of Australia has released its Asian Power Index, which ranks countries in Asia based on their power and influence in the region.

Rankings:

United States

China

Japan

India

India has secured the 4th position in the list of Asia's most powerful countries, following the United States, China, and Japan.

Criteria for Ranking:

The Asian Power Index ranks countries based on various parameters. For India, the key strengths that contributed to its ranking are:

Demography:

India's large and youthful population provides it with a demographic dividend that can be harnessed for economic growth and global influence.

Economy:

India's economy, being one of the largest in the world, plays a significant role in its power dynamics within Asia. Its economic policies, trade relations, and growth trajectory contribute to its influential position.

Capable Diplomats:

India's diplomatic corps is recognized for its proficiency and capability. Indian diplomats play a crucial role in forging international alliances, managing disputes, and representing India's interests on the global stage.

Defence:

India's defense capabilities, including its armed forces and strategic assets, are pivotal in determining its power status in Asia. A robust defense infrastructure ensures India's security and strengthens its position in regional geopolitics.

Question

Question

India's position on the global stage has been influenced by several factors. Discuss those factors that influence the contemporary nuances of indian foreign policy

Foreign Policy (FP): Definitions and Perspectives

Foreign policy is a crucial aspect of a nation's strategy to manage its international relations. Various experts and scholars have provided their perspectives on what constitutes foreign policy. Here are some of the notable definitions and explanations:

EAM S Jaishankar's Perspective:

Definition: "Foreign Policy is an exercise of forging convergences and managing divergence."

Explanation: According to Jaishankar, foreign policy involves finding common ground with other nations while also addressing and managing differences. It's about building alliances where interests align and diplomatically navigating areas of disagreement.

Traditional Understanding:

Definition: "Foreign Policy is to protect and promote a country's national interest."

Explanation: The primary goal of any nation's foreign policy is to safeguard its interests, both core and peripheral.

Core Aspects: These are the fundamental interests that are vital for a nation's survival and prosperity. For instance, securing oil supplies is a core aspect. If a country like India doesn't buy oil from Russia and instead sources it from more expensive suppliers, it could lead to imported inflation, affecting the domestic economy.

Peripheral Aspects: These interests might change over time based on shifting geopolitics and other external factors. They are important but not as critical as the core aspects.

Shishankar Menon's Perspective (from his book "Choices"):

Definition: "Foreign Policy is about MiniMaxing, meaning minimizing the harm and maximizing the gain."

Explanation: Menon suggests that nations should strategize their foreign policies to reduce potential damages and increase benefits. An example to illustrate this concept is the trade dynamics where the USA buys from India, which in turn procures from Russia. Such arrangements can be seen as a way to balance geopolitical interests and economic benefits.

The 5 Phases of Indian Foreign Policy by EAM S Jaishankar

Phases of Foreign Policy (MEA - SI) - Audit of Indian Policy

Given by EAM - Dr. S. Jaishankar

Context: The world is often categorized on the basis of North and South, and Developed and Developing. This information can be used to understand the Global South.

Phases of India's Foreign Policy

Time Period	Phase	Description
1947-1961	Optimistic Era	1. During the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), the world was Bipolar led by USA & USSR. Nehru said, "I am on my side and nobody else's."
ㅤ	ㅤ	2. India focused on Third World Solidarity, now referred to as Global South.
1962-1971	Realism	1. After the 1962 War with China, India began working closely with the USSR to protect its territorial integrity.
1972-1991	Regional Assertion	1. Creation of Bangladesh and the Indo-Pak War disrupted the equivalence with Pakistan.
ㅤ	ㅤ	2. Some scholars refer to this as the phase of the "India Monroe Doctrine."
ㅤ	ㅤ	3. India initiated the "Look East Policy."
ㅤ	ㅤ	4. This period saw the failure of the IPKF (Indian Peace Keeping Force) mission in Sri Lanka.
1992-1999	Strategic Autonomy	1. Transition from a Bipolar world to a Unipolar world.
ㅤ	ㅤ	2. India began working with various countries to protect its interests.
2000-2013	Hyper Globalization	1. China emerged as a major power.
ㅤ	ㅤ	2. The world achieved the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) ahead of schedule.
ㅤ	ㅤ	3. India played a balancing role against regional powers like China.
ㅤ	ㅤ	4. Relations between India and countries like the UK and EU strengthened. India concluded a unique civil nuclear deal with the NSG.
ㅤ	ㅤ	5. India faced traditional threats like war and non-traditional threats like smuggling and drug trafficking.
2014-	Emerging Diplomacy	1. India is becoming a rule shaper.
ㅤ	ㅤ	2. Focus on institution building to solve global problems like climate change or the Coalition of Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

Key Concepts Explained

Kindleberger Trap: This refers to a situation where there's a non-provision of global public goods. For instance, when the Trump administration left the Paris Agreement and the Biden administration rejoined it. Additionally, issues at the WTO became dysfunctional due to the non-appointment of judges.

Thucydides Trap: Describes a scenario where the rise of a new power threatens an established power, leading to conflict. An example is the emerging tensions between China and the USA.

Additional Notes

With the P5 diminishing in power, the UN might also lose its relevance.

The US foreign policy can be described as proactive, whereas general foreign policy is more reactive. For the US, technologically advanced China is a bigger concern than Iraq or Afghanistan.

Proxy wars: USA in Taiwan and China awaiting the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Marshall Plan:

On stage objective: Helping in infrastructure building. China has also reached Latin America in the lithium triangle.
Behind the stage objective: Debt trap diplomacy and preventing China from influencing the USA.

Chip War: China is preparing for a potential chip war with the USA.

Foreign Policy (FP) Initiatives or Examples

Neighbourhood First Policy (South Asia)

Objective: Giving political and diplomatic priority to the neighborhood.

Key Points:

Support neighbouring countries as and when needed.
Economic Aid to countries like Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and Afghanistan.

Specific budget allocation for neighbouring countries.

Emphasis on Connectivity and Culture.

Example: IMT (India Myanmar Thailand) Trilateral Highway.

Buddhist diplomacy to strengthen cultural ties.
India-led regionalism tailored to the comfort of its neighbours.

Act East Policy (ASEAN)

Objective: Strengthen ties with ASEAN nations.

Key Points:

Focus on economic integration.

Example: Signing of Free Trade Agreements (FTA).

Cultural integration through initiatives like 'Project Mausam', which aims to revive traditional ties with Southeast Asian countries.
Emphasis on the security of the Indo-Pacific region.

Policy: Free & Open Indo Pacific (FOIP).

Extended neighbourhood collaboration.

With QUAD: India, USA, Japan, and Australia.
With FIPIC: To improve relations with Pacific Island Countries.

Indo-Pacific Region (SAGAR)

Objective: Secure the major geopolitical theatre of the Indo-Pacific.

Key Points:

Emphasis on 'Security and Growth for All'.
Promote the Blue economy (sustainable use of marine resources).
Recognize its importance in the arc of communication, a prime maritime trade route.

Look West Policy (West Asia)

Objective: Strengthen ties with West Asian countries.

Key Points:

Tri-lateral foreign policy with key regional players: Israel, KSA, and Iran.

The development of the Chabahar port in Iran is crucial for the International North-South Transit Corridor (INSTC). Provides alternative access to Afghanistan.

Collaboration titled i2u2: India, Israel, UAE, USA.

Efforts in the Abraham Accord.

Focus on the energy security of the country and supporting the diaspora.

Connect to Central Asia Policy (C2CA)

Objective: Enhance ties with Central Asian countries.

Key Points:

Focus on energy diplomacy, connectivity, and improving trade ties.

Collaborate on not just conventional energy but also nuclear energy, given Central Asia's uranium resources.

FP with Other Major Countries (Multi-Alignment)

Objective: Maintain balanced relations with major global powers.

Key Points:

Strengthen ties with the USA (through initiatives like QUAD) and Russia (through BRICS & SCO).

Changes → 9 Years of Indian Foreign Policy (FP) under Minister of External Affairs Jaishankar

Changes in India's FP over the last 9 years

Enhanced Global Image

Key Points:

India has positioned itself as a leader of the global south.
The nation serves as a development partner for countries in Africa and Latin America.
Examples:

Metro projects in countries like Mauritius.
Development diplomacy in neighboring countries.
Grid connectivity in South Asia.
Power transmission assistance, like the transmission lines between Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.
West Seti project in Nepal.

Focus on Economic Tools in Diplomacy

Key Points:

Collaboration with countries such as Japan and Australia on initiatives like the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI).
India's role as an economic firefighter: providing aid to countries in need, like Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.

Success in Strategic Communication

Key Points:

India is becoming an influential voice in global discussions on issues like counter-terrorism, climate change, and the Indo-Pacific region (a major geopolitical theater).

Emergence as a Reliable Partner

Key Points:

Shift in global perception: Previously, "India promises and China delivers". Now, India is building strong partnerships and collaborations through initiatives like QUAD, i2u2, and FIPIC.
India is entering into Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA).

FP Delivering Benefits to Ordinary Citizens

Key Points:

Examples:

Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) with Bangladesh: Assisted people living in no man's land, granting them proper citizenship.
Vaccine Maitri: India's initiative to donate and export COVID-19 vaccines.
Operations like Ganga (evacuation from Ukraine) and Kaveri Hakki Pikki Tribe (evacuation from Sudan) helped citizens in distress.

Conclusion

Minister Jaishankar's perspective: "People globally now want to listen to India and be seen associated with India."

Key Factors Enabling These Changes:

Strategic Clarity: A clear understanding of India's foreign objectives and prioritization.

Overcoming Historical Hesitations:

The current government is shedding ideological baggage, moving away from the traditional "Dogmas of Delhi".

There's a recognized need for bureaucracy to evolve and adapt to the changing global scenario, rather than sticking to established beliefs.

Seizing Opportunities:

Examples:

The "China+1" opportunity: Companies are exploring alternatives to China for supply chain resilience and to prevent the weaponization of supply chains.
Tech companies are setting up Global Capability Centres (GCC) in India for research and skill development.

Focus on Delivery: The narrative that "India promises, China delivers" has shifted in India's favor.

Political Stability in India.

Continuity in Foreign Policy from the Past

Economic Cooperation:

Geo-political Context:

In the post-liberalization era, India has been keen to establish comprehensive economic partnerships, like with ASEAN countries, to foster stronger trade ties.

Examples:

India-Japan: Enhanced bilateral relations resulted in the establishment of the India-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement in 2011.
India-EU Free Trade Agreement Talks: Ongoing negotiations aiming to remove trade barriers and promote economic cooperation.

Promoting Peace and Security:

- Geo-political Context: - Historically, India has been a voice of reason in global conflicts, advocating for peaceful resolutions. - Examples: - Mediation in Korean War (1950s): India played a crucial role in negotiating the armistice. - India's Role in the Non-Aligned Movement: India's leadership in NAM highlighted its commitment to staying neutral during the Cold War era conflicts.

Strategic Autonomy:

- Geo-political Context: - India’s strategic autonomy has been evident in its balanced relationships with major powers like the US, Russia, and China. - Examples: - India-Russia Defense Deals: Despite US sanctions on Russia, India continued its defense deals like the S-400 missile system agreement. - India-US 2+2 Dialogues: Regular dialogues with the US on strategic, security, and defense cooperation without compromising its ties with other major powers.

Multilateralism:

- Geo-political Context: - India's proactive participation in international coalitions underscores its belief in multilateral solutions. - Examples: - Founding Member of the United Nations: India's active role in the UN, including peacekeeping missions, showcases its commitment to global peace. - BRICS: India's involvement in BRICS, a group of five major emerging economies (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), showcases its dedication to multilateral economic growth and cooperation.

Against Nuclear Proliferation:

- Geo-political Context: - While India developed nuclear capabilities for its defense, it has been a proponent of non-proliferation and responsible nuclear behavior. - Examples: - Pokhran Tests: Post the 1998 nuclear tests, India declared a voluntary moratorium on further testing. - No First Use Policy: India's commitment to not using nuclear weapons unless first attacked by an adversary with nuclear weapons. - Civil Nuclear Deal with the US (2008): Demonstrated India's commitment to separating its civil and military nuclear facilities and ensuring the peaceful use of nuclear energy

Question

Question:

Indian FP is characterized by both continuity and change

Answer Framework:

Define FP

Core Interest Remains Same, Peripheral Interest Changes

Changes - Quote Jaishankar with an Example, If something else then under the 5 heads by EAM, and then quoting examples is important

Foreign Policy Challenges

Geo-Political Challenges

Russia-Ukraine War

Overview: The conflict, often described by the US as a "Frozen War" or "War without Peace", erupted in February 2022. It has heightened global tensions, seemingly re-ushering the world into a two-block system with the USA and EU on one side, and Russia and its allies on the other.

Ukraine's Perspective:

Main Concern: Russia's revanchist ambitions.
Historical Context: The annexation of Crimea by Russia serves as a precedent, intensifying Ukraine's concerns about potential Russian territorial ambitions.

Russia's Perspective:

Main Concern: NATO's eastward expansion, termed as the "NATOisation" of its neighbourhood.
Specific Issue: Finland's recent joining of NATO, marking a departure from its traditional policy of "Finlandisation" or neutrality.

Emerging Russia-China Nexus

Overview: The increasing cooperation and alignment between Russia and China present challenges, especially for countries like India.

India's Concern: Military hardware dependency on Russia, which could be complicated by Russia's growing proximity to China.

China's Expansionist Ambitions

Salami Slicing: China's strategy of making small encroachments, notably in territorial matters.

Xiokang Villages: Dual-use settlements built by China near border areas. While presented as civilian habitats, they can potentially be used as military launch pads.

India's Response: The "Vibrant Village" initiatives to counter the strategic advantage of Xiokang Villages.

Debt Trap Diplomacy: China's strategy to make countries economically dependent, thereby gaining geopolitical leverage.

Examples:

Hambantota Port: Leased to China for 99 years after Sri Lanka couldn't repay Chinese loans.
Gwadar Port: Under China's control, providing it strategic depth in the Arabian Sea.
Pakistan: Increasingly dependent on Chinese loans and investments.

Other Tactics:

China's Marshall Plan: Economic initiatives to extend influence.

Wolf Warrior Diplomacy: Aggressive diplomatic posturing.

Two-Fold Warfare Plan: Combining traditional military means with unconventional tactics.

Presence in the Region: Deployment of Chinese spy ships for surveillance and intelligence gathering.

Renewed Tensions Between the US and China

Overview: The growing rivalry and strategic tensions between the US and China are reminiscent of a "New Cold War".

Factors:

China's rising global influence challenges US hegemony.
Trade and technology wars, notably around 5G technology and companies like Huawei.
Disagreements over human rights issues, especially relating to Hong Kong and the Uighur population in Xinjiang.

Geo-Economic Policy

1. Weaponization of Resources:

Description: This refers to the strategic use or threat of resources for geopolitical advantage.

Examples: Energy, power, streaming platforms, gas pipelines, finance.

2. Misuse of Economic Advantage Principles:

Description: Key economic principles that traditionally drive international trade and cooperation are increasingly being misused for political or strategic gains.

Narratives

1. Anti-Indian Narratives:

Diplomatic Capital: India needs more diplomatic resources to counter unfavorable international reports or perceptions.

PM's Economic Organisation Council Report:

Title: "Why India does poorly on global perception indices."
Analysis: The report critiques the methodologies of global indices like the freedom index and the democracy index.

Bias & Lack of Transparency: The indices are often based on opinions of a small group.
Subjectivity: The questions are mainly subjective, making them difficult to answer objectively.
Omission of Critical Questions: For instance, in the democracy index, the question regarding how the head of state is elected is missing.

Conclusion: These issues contribute to India's lower ranking and shape the anti-Indian narratives.

2. Domestic Political Issues:

Border States Issues: Issues related to neighboring countries such as Myanmar can have implications for security in states like Manipur.

Arms Trade: The presence of illicit arms trade along the border.

China's Role: Accusations of China supporting insurgency movements within India.

3. Neighborhood Challenges:

The 3 U's:

Unsettled Border: Territorial disputes and lack of clearly defined boundaries.

Unintegrated Region: Lack of regional cooperation and integration.

Underexploited Opportunities: Missed economic and strategic opportunities.

Double Border Threat or Two Front War:

Threats: From both Pakistan and China.
I2 Diplomacy within the Two Front War:

Incursion by China: State actors like the army are involved.

Infiltration by Pakistan: Involves non-state actors.

Indo-Pacific Region:

Emerging Diplomatic Theatre: It's becoming a hotspot for geopolitical activities.

Proxy Wars: Indirect conflicts instigated by major powers.

Refugee Crisis:

Refugee Influx: Massive influx like the Rohingyas.

Mixed Influx: Consists of economic migrants, illegally trafficked individuals, and refugees.

Security

1. Non-Traditional Threats:

Description: Beyond conventional warfare, there are other threats to a nation's security. For India, these could range from cyber threats, and terrorism, to climate change-induced challenges.

2. Maritime Security:

Piracy: Threat from sea pirates, especially in regions like the Gulf of Aden.

26/11 Attacks: The infamous terrorist attack on Mumbai in 2008 was carried out through the maritime route, highlighting vulnerabilities in India's coastal security.\

Global Issues

Emerging Tech Security Challenges:

Debate on Decoupling vs. Derisking:

Description: This refers to the dilemma of whether countries should "decouple" from risky technological ties or "derisk" by diversifying and safeguarding their tech relationships.

Friend Shoring:

Description: Foreign policy efforts are now directed towards enhancing economic and trade relations with allied nations. This aims to balance economic needs with security considerations.

IPEF (Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity):

Description: An initiative to promote economic collaboration and security in the Indo-Pacific region, fostering an environment of shared prosperity.

2. Climate Change:

Description: The global challenge of changing weather patterns, rising sea levels, and increasing climate-related disasters, which impacts economies, societies, and security.

3. Energy Security:

Energy Deficit and Dependence:

Description: India's challenges lie in its energy deficit (not producing enough energy domestically) and its dependence on other countries for energy resources.

4. Weakening of Multilateralism:

Rule-Based Order:

Description: India advocates for a global system where international relations are governed by established rules and norms rather than power dynamics.

Other Challenges

1. Strategic Confusion:

Maritime Strength:

Description: As per Professor Happyman Joacon, India has an advantage in maritime borders, owning to its Blue Water Navy and a strong naval force.

China's Malacca Dilemma: The Strait of Malacca is a strategic choke point near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It's a critical route for Chinese trade, and theoretically, India could block or "choke" China's access.

Counter Argument: Relying solely on this maritime advantage is unwise. India should focus both on its land and maritime borders for comprehensive security.

2. MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) Challenges:

Budget Allocation:

Description: Only 0.44 percent of India's budget is allocated to the MEA. There's a consensus that this needs to be increased for better foreign policy execution.

Need for More Personnel:

Description: The MEA requires more IFS (Indian Foreign Service) officers, diplomats, and high commissioners. Additionally, specialization is needed for nuanced matters such as economic agreements

Conclusion

1. India's Constitutional Perspective on Foreign Relations:

DPSP Article 51:

Description: Article 51 of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution emphasizes the state's commitment to:

Promote international peace and security.

Maintain just and honorable relations with other nations.

Ensure the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

Adhere to and respect international law.

2. Vision for India's Geo-Political Future:

Quote by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar (S J):

"A Nation that has aspirations to become a leading power someday cannot continue with unsettled borders, an unintegrated region, and under-exploited opportunities."
Explanation: For India to become a major global player, it must address pressing regional challenges and unlock its potential by leveraging its strengths and opportunities.

3. Diplomatic Strategy for Aspiring Powers:

Quote by EAM S. Jaishankar (S J):

"History has lessons for an aspiring power: Leverage with the dominant, collaborate with the convergent, and manage the competition."
Explanation: This quote provides a roadmap for emerging powers like India:

Leverage with the dominant: Work in alignment with powerful entities to enhance one's position.

Collaborate with the convergent: Forge alliances and partnerships with nations having similar goals or interests.

Manage the competition: Strategically address and navigate through rivalry and challenges from competing powers.

Long Term Concncpets

Panchsheel Principles

The Panchsheel Principles were initiated in the 1950s as a doctrine to govern relations between India and China. They emphasize five principles: mutual respect for each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty, mutual non-aggression, mutual non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence. These principles were perceived as a significant step towards promoting peace and harmony in the Asian continent and are crucial in understanding India's foreign policy orientation.

Gujral Doctrine - Principle of Non-Reciprocity:

Initiated by former Prime Minister Inder Kumar Gujral, the Gujral Doctrine was a set of five key principles aimed at guiding India's relations with its neighbors. One of the key tenets was the Principle of Non-Reciprocity, which entailed that India, being the larger country, should not expect reciprocal concessions from its neighboring countries. This doctrine played a role in fostering friendly relations and reducing tensions within the South Asian region.

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is an ancient Indian phrase found in the Maha Upanishad, which translates to "the world is one family." It reflects a worldview that envisions a global family bound by common humanity and shared responsibilities. This principle has been reiterated by various Indian leaders on international platforms, embodying India's inclusive and cooperative approach towards global issues and international relations. It showcases the philosophical underpinning of India's engagement with the world, promoting universal brotherhood and shared prosperity.

Balancing Act: Navigating Geopolitical Interests

Balancing US and China:

Objective: Maintaining a strategic equilibrium between the US and China, two of the world's superpowers.

Challenges: Navigating through the US-China rivalry, ensuring national interests are preserved.

Strategies: Engaging in multilateral forums, fostering bilateral relations with both nations without being ensnared in their rivalry.

Balancing West Asia Policy:

Objective: Ensuring stability and maintaining good relations with countries in the West Asian region.

Challenges: The differing interests of regional powers, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and the Iran-Saudi rivalry.

Strategies: Diversifying energy sources, engaging in diplomatic dialogues, and contributing to regional stability.

Balancing China and Pakistan Relations:

Objective: Managing relations with two neighbors with whom India has had historical conflicts.

Challenges: Border disputes, terrorism, and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Strategies: Confidence-building measures, dialogues for dispute resolution, and regional cooperation.

Balancing Russia-China Relations:

Objective: Navigating the growing closeness between Russia and China, while maintaining strong ties with Russia.

Challenges: Russia's tilt towards China could challenge India's strategic interests.

Strategies: Strengthening the India-Russia strategic partnership, engaging in trilateral dialogues involving Russia, China, and India.

Balancing Various Interests in Afghanistan:

Objective: Achieving a double peace—internal and external—in Afghanistan.

Challenges: The fragile security situation, presence of terrorist groups, and external interference.

Strategies: Supporting inclusive peace processes, providing humanitarian aid, and engaging with regional and international stakeholders for a stable Afghanistan.