How Indian Foreign Policy Became a Disaster: Is it Losing Its Direction

How Indian Foreign Policy Became a Disaster : Is it Losing Its Direction

India, a nation with a rich legacy of diplomacy and moral leadership, is witnessing a concerning shift in its foreign policy. What was once a carefully balanced and strategic approach is now appearing increasingly inconsistent, reactive, and at times, poorly calculated. The consequences of this shift are visible across borders both literally and diplomatically and are beginning to raise questions about India’s long-term standing in the global arena.

For decades, India followed a non aligned and autonomous foreign policy approach , choosing to remain independent of global power blocs while maintaining respectful and balanced relationships with both the West and the East. This gave India a unique position as a neutral yet influential voice in global affairs. However, the recent changes suggest that this philosophy has been gradually replaced by a more transactional and image-focused strategy.

One of the most visible signs of this change is the increasing strain in relations with India’s immediate neighbors. Tensions with Nepal escalated during border disputes, particularly around the Kalapani region. Diplomatic responses were slow and dismissive, leading to rising anti-India sentiment among the Nepalese population. Similarly, ties with Sri Lanka have wavered, with China stepping in as a more dominant influence on the island nation through massive infrastructure investments. This shift has weakened India’s traditional influence in South Asia, giving space to rival powers to deepen their foothold.

The India-China relationship is another example of how foreign policy missteps can escalate into strategic disadvantages. Following the violent clashes in Galwan Valley, there was a national outcry, but no transparent or assertive diplomatic resolution followed. Despite public promises of strong countermeasures, trade between India and China has continued to grow, suggesting a mismatch between rhetoric and action. This inconsistency creates confusion among both domestic citizens and international observers, eroding the perception of India as a country that stands firm on its principles.

Another noticeable trend is India’s increasing reliance on select global partners, particularly Western powers and Gulf nations. While building strong relations with countries like the United States, France, and the UAE can have economic and defense advantages, over-dependence limits flexibility. A foreign policy that leans too heavily on one side of the geopolitical spectrum risks isolating the nation when global alliances shift. Additionally, India’s silence or neutrality on major global issues, such as the Israel-Palestine conflict or Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, signals a lack of clear moral positioning.

This change in diplomatic posture seems to be driven more by domestic political needs than by long-term strategic thinking. International visits and flashy summits are often timed to align with elections or national events, more for optics than outcomes. Foreign policy should be crafted in conference rooms by seasoned diplomats, not shaped by social media trends or TV studio debates. The shift from substance to symbolism in diplomatic engagements reduces the credibility of the nation on the world stage.

Furthermore, regional forums such as SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), once a beacon of regional unity, have been neglected. This has hampered collective dialogue in South Asia, making it easier for other global powers to enter bilateral relationships with India’s neighbors and marginalize India from regional matters. A revival of regional forums could help India regain lost ground and foster stability through multilateralism.

Indian foreign policy today seems to suffer from a lack of vision. Short-term moves and one-off statements are not a substitute for a consistent, forward-looking strategy. While responding to immediate threats and global developments is necessary, there must also be a clearly defined roadmap that aligns with national interest, security, and economic growth over decades not just over an election cycle.

In addition to realigning strategy, there is an urgent need to empower institutions that guide foreign policy. The Ministry of External Affairs and career diplomats must be allowed to lead with professionalism and continuity. Diplomatic appointments based on loyalty rather than expertise weaken the foundation of international negotiations. Countries that respect their institutions, uphold consistency in foreign relations, and avoid politicizing diplomacy tend to earn long-term respect from the global community.

India is at a pivotal moment. With a growing economy, increasing technological prowess, and a youthful population, it is poised to play a major role in shaping the future global order. But without a strong and steady indian foreign policy, that potential will remain unfulfilled. Influence on the world stage is not just built through trade or military power . it also requires trust, consistency, and moral authority. These qualities cannot be developed overnight but must be cultivated through years of reliable and principled diplomacy.

In conclusion, Indian current foreign policy approach needs urgent introspection and course correction. Instead of reacting to global events with short-term fixes or ideological biases, India must return to a foundation built on strategic autonomy, regional harmony, and global responsibility. The world respects a nation that knows its values and stands by them . India has done that before and must do it again. Only then can it reclaim its position not just as a regional power, but as a global leader with vision and integrity.

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