‘India pole’ in international politics

Context:

‘India’s stand on issues of global importance indicates that it takes positions that not only suit its interests but are also informed by its sense of being a unique player on the global stage.

India is ‘a side’

• Unique foreign policy identity: India’s desire for this identity can be found in India’s long struggle for independence, and the articulations of its leaders: both pre- and post-independence.
• India’s view of itself as a pole: This view is evident from the manner in which it used to pursue non-alignment, conveying its ability to take a position on a given issue on a case-by-case basis.

What it entails

• Being a pole: For India, it means, not seeking to dominate the South Asian regional subsystem; refusing to seek camp followers or allegiances.
• Elements of India’s idea of being a pole: Strategic periphery in South Asia; discouraging interference by other powers in that space; welcoming the rule of law and regional order.