India’s Geopolitical Strategy in the Evolving Multipolar World

India’s geopolitical strategy in an evolving multipolar world is shaped by a nuanced approach centered on strategic autonomy, pragmatic engagement, and the pursuit of national interests. As global power dynamics shift, India aims to strengthen its position as a responsible global power, balancing diverse relationships and advocating for a rules-based international order to navigate complex challenges and leverage opportunities for sustainable growth and influence.

Upholding Multilateralism and Global Governance

• India champions reforms in global institutions like the UN, WTO, and IMF, advocating for more inclusive and equitable representation reflecting contemporary global power structures.

• It promotes a rules-based international order, emphasizing adherence to international law and peaceful dispute resolution to counter unilateral actions and enhance global stability.

• Active participation in forums such as the G20, BRICS, and SCO enables India to contribute to global economic and security narratives, fostering cooperation on critical issues.

Strategic Autonomy and Non-Alignment 2.0

• India’s approach prioritizes independent decision-making, ensuring its foreign policy serves national interests without being tied to any specific power bloc.

• It involves cultivating diversified strategic partnerships with major global players like the US, Russia, and EU, maintaining flexibility and avoiding over-reliance.

• Non-Alignment 2.0 signifies a proactive engagement strategy, allowing India to leverage multiple relationships to enhance its strategic space and global influence.

Economic Diplomacy and Connectivity

• India’s economic diplomacy focuses on attracting FDI, expanding trade, and integrating into resilient global supply chains to fuel ambitious economic growth objectives.

• Key connectivity projects, including INSTC and Chabahar Port, are vital for boosting regional trade, ensuring energy security, and accessing new markets across Eurasia.

• Partnerships in digital economy and technology transfer foster innovation, address data governance, and secure India’s position in the global digital landscape.

Regional Engagements and Neighbourhood First Policy

• The ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy strengthens ties with South Asian neighbours through enhanced connectivity, trade, and cultural exchanges, crucial for regional stability and India’s security.

• India’s ‘Act East Policy’ deepens engagement with Southeast Asian nations and the broader Indo-Pacific, promoting security, economic integration, and a free and open maritime order.

• Expanding strategic outreach to the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia focuses on energy security, trade diversification, and building robust partnerships.

Defence Modernization and Security Partnerships

• Strong emphasis on indigenous defence manufacturing under ‘Make in India’ reduces import reliance, enhancing self-reliance and strategic autonomy in defence capabilities.

• Diversifying defence procurement sources and technology transfer agreements ensure India acquires advanced military technologies for its evolving security needs.

• Joint military exercises and security dialogues, like those with the Quad, foster interoperability, shared threat assessments, and collective responses to regional challenges.

Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy

• India leverages its rich cultural heritage (Yoga, Ayurveda) and democratic values to build global goodwill and promote a pluralistic image internationally.

• Cultural exchange programs, academic collaborations, and the appeal of Indian cinema enhance India’s global influence and diplomatic outreach significantly.

• Engaging the global Indian diaspora serves as a crucial bridge, amplifying India’s voice and extending its cultural and economic footprint worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is India’s ‘Strategic Autonomy’ in the multipolar world?

India’s ‘Strategic Autonomy’ is its ability to make independent foreign policy decisions based on national interests, without undue external pressure. It involves balancing relations with diverse global powers.

1. How does India contribute to global governance?

India contributes by advocating for reforms in multilateral institutions, promoting a rules-based international order, and actively participating in global forums like G20 and BRICS to address shared challenges.

1. What is the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy?

It is India’s foreign policy initiative to strengthen relations with its immediate South Asian neighbours through enhanced connectivity, trade, and cultural ties, prioritizing regional stability and cooperation.

1. How does India use ‘Soft Power’ in its geopolitics?

India uses ‘Soft Power’ by promoting its cultural heritage like Yoga, democratic values, and engaging its diaspora. This fosters goodwill, enhances its global image, and extends its diplomatic influence.

Stay Updated with Daily Current Affairs 2026