India’s Strategic Autonomy

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Context:

India’s evolving foreign policy highlights the centrality of strategic autonomy in navigating multipolar global challenges.

Historical Roots and Evolution

Colonial Legacy: India’s emphasis on strategic autonomy is rooted in its historical experience of colonial subjugation, shaping its resolve to preserve independent decision-making.
Nehruvian Non-Alignment: During the Cold War, India pursued non-alignment under Nehru, resisting bloc politics while safeguarding national sovereignty.
Multi-Alignment Era: In contemporary times, India practices “multi-alignment,” engaging flexibly with multiple powers while ensuring policy independence.

Contemporary Practice and Challenges

United States Engagement: India has deepened ties with the U.S. through defence cooperation, technology transfers, and platforms like Quad and IMEC, while resisting pressure on Russia and trade frictions.
China Challenge: Strategic autonomy manifests in cautious engagement with China, combining deterrence, border strengthening, and multilateral participation without surrendering sovereignty.
Russia Continuity: India maintains historical defence and energy ties with Russia despite Western pressure, showcasing an independent stance in global conflicts.

Redefinition in a New Global Order

Beyond Traditional Domains: Autonomy today extends to data sovereignty, supply chain security, and technological ecosystems like AI and space.
Global South Leadership: India positions itself as the voice of the Global South, advocating agency, pluralism, and pragmatic diplomacy.
Resilience and Adaptability: Strategic autonomy is not isolation but the ability to balance great-power rivalries while investing in economic and technological strength.

Practice Question:

“Strategic autonomy remains the cornerstone of India’s foreign policy, but its meaning has evolved from non-alignment to multi-alignment in a multipolar world. Critically examine with reference to India’s relations with the United States, China, and Russia.” (250 words)

Judiciary’s Moral Compass

Polity & Governance

GST 2.0 Reforms

Economy

India’s Critical Mineral Mission

Economy

India’s Bioeconomy Growth

Economy

PMFME: Strengthening Micro Food Units

Economy

Decline in Fertility Rates

Society