India’s Foreign Policy: From Idealism to Assertiveness

Context:
India’s foreign policy came under renewed focus after Operation Sindoor, a decisive military strike in response to the Pahalgam terror attack (2025). This operation has sparked discussions on India’s evolving approach to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and its overall strategic posture.

Phases of India’s Evolving Foreign Policy

1. Nehruvian Idealism (1947–1962):

• Adopted non-alignment during the Cold War.

• Championed decolonisation in Asia and Africa.

• Strong belief in multilateralism and the UN system.

2. Peace and Ethical Diplomacy:

• Promoted Panchsheel principles.

• Influenced by Gandhian values: non-violence, ethics, and dialogue.

• Preferred bilateralism over coercion.

3. Strategic Realism (Post-1962):

• Shifted focus to national interest and security.

• Strengthened border defence and military preparedness.

• Invested in defence institutions.

4. Nuclear and Strategic Autonomy (1974–1998):

• Conducted nuclear tests to ensure autonomous deterrence.

• Rejected NPT and CTBT to safeguard sovereignty.

• Built indigenous capabilities.

5. Counterterrorism Posture (2000s–2019):

• Moved from restraint to retaliation (e.g., Uri 2016, Balakot 2019).

• Recognised cross-border terrorism as proxy war.

6. Operation Sindoor Era (2025 Onward):

• Operationalised pre-emptive strike doctrine.

• Reinforced zero-tolerance policy on terrorism.

• Sent strong public and diplomatic signals.

Key Challenges

• Pakistan’s Proxy Strategy:
  Continues using non-state actors (e.g. 26/11, Uri 2016, Pahalgam 2025).

• China’s Aggression:
  Frequent LAC violations, especially post-Galwan.

• Balancing Hard and Soft Power:
  Need to maintain India’s civilisational image while acting decisively.

• Global Scrutiny:
  Military actions require effective perception management.

• Geopolitical Realignments:
  Navigating ties with Quad, BRICS, West Asia, while retaining strategic autonomy.

The Way Ahead

• Strategic Non-Alignment:
  Pursue autonomy through flexible alliances.

• Strengthen Indigenous Defence:
  Advance Atmanirbhar Bharat.
  Examples: DRDO’s BrahMos, Agni, INS Arihant.

• Proactive Deterrence:
  Continue calibrated military responses to terror threats.

• Enhance Global Engagement:
  Lead on global issues like terrorism, climate change, and AI governance.

Conclusion

India’s foreign policy has transformed from Nehru’s idealism to a strategic, self-assured, and assertive approach in 2025. Rooted in peace, it now prioritises national security, economic self-reliance, and global leadership—reflecting India’s emergence as a confident global actor.