The Evolution of India's Foreign Policy Since 1947

Roopashree Sharma
SOURCE

15th August 2024

Nehruvian Vision (1947-1964)

Upon gaining independence in 1947, India, under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru,
set out a visionary foreign policy grounded in anti-colonialism, anti-imperialism, and
peaceful coexistence. Nehru's approach was rooted in the ideals of the Non-Aligned
Movement (NAM), which aimed to position India and other newly independent
nations outside the Cold War rivalries between the U.S. and the USSR.
The NAM was officially established at the Bandung Conference in 1955, with Nehru
as a leading figure. The movement was a collective stand against superpower conflicts,
advocating for independence and non-alignment. Nehru articulated this policy in a
1956 Indian Parliament speech: "We propose, as far as possible, to keep aloof from
the power blocs... Our foreign policy is one of independence and non-alignment, so
that we may be free to exercise our own judgment."
In 1954, India and China signed the Panchsheel Agreement, articulating the Five
Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. This agreement emphasised mutual respect for
sovereignty and non-aggression and was a bold statement of India's commitment to
peaceful diplomacy. However, the 1962 Sino-Indian War exposed the limitations of
these principles and challenged Nehru’s vision.

Post-Nehru Era (1964-1990)

Shifts Under Indira Gandhi

Indira Gandhi, succeeding Nehru, brought significant changes to India’s foreign
policy. Her leadership saw the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, where India’s
decisive victory against Pakistan led to the creation of Bangladesh, establishing
India’s regional power status.
In 1971, Gandhi also signed the Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and
Cooperation, cementing India's strategic partnership with the Soviet Union. Historian
S. Gopal noted, "Indira Gandhi’s foreign policy was defined by assertiveness and
strategic depth, crucial in a period of regional turbulence."
Rajiv Gandhi’s Diplomacy
Rajiv Gandhi, who took office in 1984, aimed to modernise India’s economy and
military. His tenure marked a thaw in Indo-U.S. relations, with his 1985 visit to the
U.S. easing Cold War tensions and enhancing economic and technological
cooperation. In 1985, India played a key role in founding the South Asian Association
for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). Despite regional rivalries, SAARC aimed to
foster collaboration among South Asian nations.
Rajiv Gandhi also championed global peace, proposing a comprehensive disarmament
plan at the 1988 UN General Assembly, reflecting India’s commitment to nuclear
disarmament.

Liberalisation and Globalisation (1991-2000)

The early 1990s marked a transformative shift under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha
Rao. Facing an economic crisis, Rao introduced significant economic reforms,
including liberalising trade policies, privatising state-owned enterprises, and opening
up to foreign investment. This move not only addressed the economic crisis but also
realigned India's foreign policy, transitioning from Non-Alignment to multi-alignment,
engaging effectively with the U.S., Russia, and China.
In 1991, Rao introduced the "Look East" policy, aimed at strengthening India’s
economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
This policy sought to counterbalance China’s growing influence and boost India's
regional presence.

21st Century and Beyond

The Vajpayee and Singh Era
The early 2000s were marked by significant developments under Prime Ministers Atal
Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh. Vajpayee’s proactive foreign policy
emphasised strengthening ties with Southeast Asia through the "Look East" policy,
with a notable visit to Japan in 2001. Vajpayee’s administration also laid the
groundwork for improved Indo-U.S. relations, highlighted by President Bill Clinton’s
historic visit to India in 2000. The 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests under Atal Bihari
Vajpayee marked a pivotal shift in India’s strategic posture. Despite international
scrutiny, Vajpayee’s administration asserted India's right to nuclear capabilities and
technological advancement.
Manmohan Singh’s tenure (2004-2014) further advanced India’s foreign relations,
particularly with the U.S. The 2008 U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement marked a
significant milestone, integrating India into the global nuclear order. Singh’s
administration transitioned the "Look East" policy to "Act East," focusing on strategic
engagement with the Asia-Pacific region. This period also saw India signing several
Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with ASEAN countries.

Modi’s Era (2014-Present)

Since PM Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014, India’s foreign policy has
embraced a more assertive and strategic stance.
In 2011, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton urged India to move from "looking
east" to "acting east," advocating a more proactive role in the Asia-Pacific region.
This appeal resonated, leading External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to declare in
2014 that India was ready to "Act East," a stance reaffirmed by PM Modi during his
visit to Naypyidaw, Myanmar.
PM Modi's "Act East" policy deepens engagement with the Asia-Pacific, emphasizing
strategic partnerships with Japan and Australia and contributing to the Quad alliance
with the U.S., Japan, and Australia. The Quad Alliance aims to ensure a free and open
Indo-Pacific, with its 2021 summit highlighting collective efforts on security and
maritime issues.
PM Modi has also positioned India as a leader in global climate initiatives. The
International Solar Alliance (ISA), launched in 2015, and the ambitious climate goals
announced at the 2021 COP26 summit reflect India's proactive stance on climate
change. PM Modi's pledge for net-zero emissions by 2070 and increasing non-fossil
fuel energy to 50% by 2030 underscores India's commitment to global climate action.

What drives India’s Foreign Policy today?

In the past, foreign policy was often seen as an elite preoccupation, a topic of debate
for intellectuals, diplomats, and policy analysts. The complexities of international
relations, the subtleties of diplomacy, and the strategic manoeuvres on the global
stage seemed distant and abstract to the average Indian citizen, whose concerns were
more immediate and grounded in everyday realities. However, today, the landscape
has dramatically shifted. Conversations about India’s role in the world have
permeated all levels of society, from casual discussions at dinner tables to debates in
local communities. India's foreign policy is no longer an elite domain; it is now a
subject of national interest, reflecting the country's growing confidence and
aspirations on the global stage.
Modern India’s foreign policy is driven by a combination of historical legacies,
strategic imperatives, and contemporary global challenges. The evolution from the
non-alignment principles of Nehru to the current proactive and assertive stance
reflects the evolution of India's Foreign Policy since 1947.

Strategic Autonomy and Multi-Alignment

One of the central pillars of India's foreign policy today is the pursuit of strategic
autonomy. While the principle of non-alignment laid the foundation, India has
adapted it to the modern context by embracing a policy of multi-alignment. This
approach allows India to engage with various global powers, including the United
States, Russia, and China, without being tethered to any single bloc. This flexibility is
crucial in navigating the complex and often volatile international landscape, enabling
India to protect its national interests while maintaining its sovereignty.

Economic Diplomacy
Economic interests are at the heart of India’s foreign policy. Since the economic
liberalization of the 1990s, India has increasingly prioritized trade, investment, and
technological cooperation in its international relations. The focus on economic
diplomacy is evident in India’s efforts to secure free trade agreements, attract foreign
direct investment, and expand its economic footprint in regions like Southeast Asia,
Africa, and Latin America. Initiatives like the "Look East" and "Act East" policies
underscore India’s commitment to fostering economic ties and counterbalancing the
influence of other major powers, particularly China.

Security Concerns
India’s foreign policy is also shaped by its security imperatives. The challenges posed
by neighbouring countries, such as Pakistan and China, as well as the broader threat
of terrorism, have necessitated a robust defence and strategic policy. The
strengthening of alliances, such as the Quad (comprising the United States, Japan,
Australia, and India), highlights India’s focus on regional stability and its desire to
play a leading role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. Additionally, India's
defence modernization efforts and increased defence cooperation with key partners
reflect its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Global Leadership and Norm-Setting

Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India has sought to assert itself as a global
leader, particularly in areas like climate change, renewable energy, and digital
governance. The establishment of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and India’s
active participation in global climate negotiations underscores its leadership in
promoting sustainable development. India’s advocacy for digital inclusion and
cybersecurity at international forums further demonstrates its ambition to shape global
norms in emerging sectors.

Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power

India’s foreign policy today also leverages its rich cultural heritage and soft power.
The global appeal of Indian culture, yoga, and cinema has become a valuable tool in
enhancing India’s international image and fostering goodwill. Initiatives like the
International Day of Yoga and the promotion of Indian culture abroad are integral to
India’s strategy of building people-to-people ties and strengthening diplomatic
relations.

Technology and Innovation

As India positions itself as a hub for technology and innovation, its foreign policy
increasingly focuses on harnessing these sectors for strategic and economic gains.
Collaborations in space exploration, cybersecurity, and digital technology with
countries like the U.S., Israel, and Japan are indicative of India’s intent to be at the
forefront of the global technological revolution.
Furthermore, India's foreign policy today is increasingly influenced by domestic
considerations. Public opinion, economic needs, and national security concerns are all
deeply interwoven with foreign policy decisions. India’s foreign policy today is a
dynamic and multifaceted endeavour, driven by economic aspirations, security
imperatives, geopolitical ambitions, and domestic considerations.
In summary, it reflects a confident and assertive India, keen on shaping its destiny on
the global stage while remaining responsive to the needs and aspirations of its people.
As India continues to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, its foreign policy
will likely evolve further, balancing tradition with innovation and ambition with
pragmatism.