As the dust settles from the high-stakes 2024 Indian general elections, the world watches closely. With the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) securing a third term in power by winning 292 seats, the implications for India’s foreign policy are profound. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) itself won 240 seats, while its key allies, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), secured 16 and 12 seats respectively. This election isn’t just about domestic politics; it’s about India’s position on the global stage, its strategic challenges, and the direction of its international relations. Meanwhile, the Congress party made significant gains, winning 99 seats, a substantial improvement from its 52 seats in the 2019 elections. Among its allies, the Samajwadi Party delivered a major upset by winning 37 seats in Uttar Pradesh, the All India Trinamool Congress bagged 29 seats in West Bengal, and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam secured 22 seats in Tamil Nadu. Let’s explore how Modi’s victory will shape India’s foreign policy in the years to come, promising a dynamic and assertive India on the world stage.
India’s Foreign Policy: A Track Record of Assertiveness
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s foreign policy has been marked by a mix of assertiveness and strategic engagement. Modi’s leadership has significantly elevated India’s global profile, bringing notable achievements and setting ambitious goals.
Strategic Alliances and Global Leadership
1. The Quad Alliance:
Modi has strengthened India’s ties with the United States, Japan, and Australia through the Quad, aiming to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. This alliance is crucial for countering China’s growing influence in the region.
2. G20 Presidency:
India’s successful G20 presidency under Modi showcased its capability to lead and shape global economic and political discourse, further solidifying its status as a key global player.
Economic Diplomacy
1. Trade and Investment:
Modi’s government has focused on boosting foreign investment and trade. Initiatives like “Make in India” have attracted significant foreign interest, driving economic growth and enhancing India’s global economic footprint.
Challenges and Strategic Responses
While Modi’s government has made significant strides, it faces formidable challenges, particularly with its neighbors, China and Pakistan.
The China Conundrum
The relationship between India and China has been tense, especially since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Former ambassador Ashok K Kantha emphasizes the need for a broader engagement strategy with China, addressing not only border management but also economic dependencies and strategic intentions.
1. Border Tensions:
Resolving the border issue remains critical. Kantha suggests that New Delhi must convey to Beijing the need to restore the status quo in Ladakh and engage in substantive diplomatic dialogues to overcome the impasse.
2. Economic Balance:
Reducing dependency on Chinese imports and balancing trade relations are crucial. Strengthening domestic industries and diversifying trade partners will be essential steps.
Re-engaging with Pakistan
The abrogation of Article 370 and the subsequent downgrading of diplomatic ties by Islamabad have strained India-Pakistan relations. Experts like Saran advocate for a comprehensive re-engagement strategy with Pakistan, considering the broader geopolitical context and security challenges.
Regional Stability and Multilateral Engagements
India’s regional strategy involves addressing internal strife in neighbouring countries like Myanmar and revitalizing regional organizations.
1. SAARC and BIMSTEC:
Strengthening regional cooperation frameworks is vital. Raghavan proposes a three-pronged approach: revitalizing SAARC, engaging comprehensively with Pakistan, and broadening dialogue with China beyond military-to-military interactions.
Economic Growth and Global Balancing
Economic growth is fundamental to India’s foreign policy effectiveness. Manjeev Singh Puri highlights the importance of narrowing the economic gap with China and leveraging India’s leadership in the Global South.
1. Technological Advancements:
Cooperation with the US and other advanced economies in technology and defense will be crucial for future growth.
The 2024 Indian elections have set the stage for the next phase of India’s foreign policy. With Modi at the helm for a third term, India is poised to navigate its strategic challenges with a blend of assertiveness and diplomatic engagement. Strengthening alliances, boosting economic growth, and addressing regional tensions will be pivotal. As India continues to rise on the global stage, its foreign policy under Modi will shape not just the nation’s future but also the dynamics of international relations. How will Modi’s foreign policy moves be akin to a grandmaster in chess, carefully planning each move to out manoeuvre geopolitical rivals and secure a checkmate for India’s strategic interests?
Written by
The Global Pen 