India’s foreign policy in 2024 is characterised by strategic caution and proactive engagement. As China expands its influence in South Asia, India faces challenges. Neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives are critical to India’s geopolitical landscape. The need to balance economic partnerships, diplomatic relations, and security concerns is paramount.
China’s Growing Influence
China’s investments in infrastructure and military cooperation in South Asia are alarming for India. The presence of Chinese interests in neighbouring countries threatens India’s regional dominance. India must act cautiously to maintain its influence without isolating these nations.
Strategic Partnerships
To counter China’s assertiveness, India is forming alliances with like-minded countries. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), consisting of India, Australia, Japan, and the United States, serves as a platform for strategic discussions. This grouping aims to enhance security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Regional Instability
The political situation in Bangladesh has shifted dramatically, raising concerns for India. The ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has led to instability. This change has opened avenues for foreign powers to exert influence in Bangladesh, which India views as a violation of its interests.
Challenges with Neighbours
India’s relations with Pakistan remain complex. The ongoing power struggle has historically strained ties. Meanwhile, India’s engagement with Bhutan and Sri Lanka has seen positive developments, despite previous tensions.
India’s Diplomatic Engagements
2024 was marked by diplomatic activities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted French President Emmanuel Macron. This visit reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties between India and France. Additionally, India concluded its first Free Trade Agreement with the European Free Trade Association, setting a precedent for future negotiations.
Geopolitical Tensions
India’s foreign policy faced challenges due to tensions with Canada over allegations involving Indian officials. Relations with the United States also faced scrutiny amid legal issues surrounding Indian businesses. These developments complicate India’s diplomatic landscape.
Mediating Global Conflicts
India has positioned itself as a mediator in global conflicts. Prime Minister Modi’s visits to Russia and Ukraine indicate India’s intent to promote peace. However, India’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict remains cautious, balancing its relationships in the Middle East.
Future Diplomatic Priorities
Looking ahead to 2025, India aims to strengthen ties with the United States. The anticipated visit of President Donald Trump to India marks the importance of this relationship. Additionally, India’s engagement with Iran and other West Asian countries will be crucial in navigating regional tensions.
Conclusion
India’s foreign policy in 2024 reflects a delicate balancing act. The country must navigate complex geopolitical dynamics while safeguarding its interests. The evolving landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for India’s strategic objectives.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of China’s strategic investments in South Asia on India’s foreign policy.
- Estimate the significance of the Quad alliance in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Point out the implications of the changing political landscape in Bangladesh for India’s regional security.
- With suitable examples, explain how India has positioned itself as a mediator in global conflicts.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of China’s strategic investments in South Asia on India’s foreign policy.
- China’s investments in infrastructure and military projects in countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka threaten India’s regional dominance.
- These investments create economic dependencies, potentially swaying neighboring countries away from India.
- India’s foreign policy must adapt to counteract China’s growing influence while maintaining positive relations with its neighbors.
- Strategic partnerships with like-minded nations are essential to counterbalance China’s assertiveness.
- India’s proactive diplomatic engagement is necessary to safeguard its interests without isolating neighboring countries.
2. Estimate the significance of the Quad alliance in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
- The Quad, consisting of India, Australia, Japan, and the U.S., serves as a strategic platform for collective security in the Indo-Pacific.
- It enhances military cooperation and intelligence sharing among member nations to deter Chinese expansionism.
- The Quad’s initiatives promote a rules-based order, countering China’s aggressive tactics in the region.
- Regular high-level meetings strengthen diplomatic ties and encourage collaborative responses to regional challenges.
- The Quad’s focus on infrastructure development offers an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, boosting regional partnerships.
3. Point out the implications of the changing political landscape in Bangladesh for India’s regional security.
- The ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has led to instability, raising concerns about increased foreign influence in Bangladesh.
- India views the potential for foreign powers, particularly China, to gain a foothold in Bangladesh as threat.
- Political instability may lead to heightened security risks, including terrorism and cross-border crime affecting India.
- India must navigate this delicate situation by maintaining strong diplomatic channels and supporting democratic processes in Bangladesh.
- Strengthening ties with other regional partners can help mitigate the risks posed by changes in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
4. With suitable examples, explain how India has positioned itself as a mediator in global conflicts.
- India’s balanced approach in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where it engaged with both sides, reflects its mediation efforts.
- Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with Palestinian PM Mahmoud Abbas at the UN showcases India’s commitment to peace in the Middle East.
- India has called for ceasefires and peaceful resolutions in various conflicts, emphasizing its role as a peace promoter.
- Participation in multilateral forums and initiatives, like IMEC, demonstrates India’s intent to facilitate dialogue among nations.
- India’s diplomatic engagements with countries involved in conflicts underline its potential as a neutral mediator in global affairs.
