India “non-West” but not “anti-West” alignment -Express View on India’s Foreign Policy

General Studies Paper-2

Context: The article discusses how India is redefining its relationship with Western countries. India is not against the West, but has a distinct, non-Western identity. The US supports this approach, indicating strong India-US relations. India’s domestic politics are shifting away from anti-Western sentiments.

What is India’s new approach to international relations?

• Non-Western Identity:India, led by External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is positioning itself as non-Western, not anti-Western. This contrasts with other BRICS nations like Russia and China, which often appear more opposed to Western perspectives.
• Flexible Alliances:India advocates for flexible international relationships, avoiding alignment against the West despite being a part of BRICS.
• Stronger Ties with the West:India is strengthening its relationships with Western nations, particularly the US. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recognizes and supports this growing bond.

What is the US’s perspective on India’s position?

• Support for Flexibility:The US, through Secretary of State Antony Blinken, endorses India’s flexible approach to international relations, valuing diverse collaborations over rigid blocs.
• Recognition of Strong Bilateral Ties:US acknowledges the strength of the US-India relationship, stating it is the strongest it has ever been, despite India’s leading role in BRICS.
• No Conflict with BRICS Membership: The US does not see India’s membership in BRICS as a hindrance to their bilateral relationship.
• Encouragement for Variable Geometry:US emphasizes the importance of “variable geometry” in current global contexts, supporting India’s stance of maintaining multiple partnerships.

How is India’s domestic politics influencing its foreign policy?

• Shift in Political Perspective: The present government in India has transcended the traditional anti-Western paradigm. This marks a significant shift from previous governments’ approach.
• Strategic Engagement with the US:The present government ‘s administration is actively engaging with the United States, building a strategic partnership that is described as deeper and broader than ever before.
• Decline of Traditional Resistance:With the weakening of the Congress party and the decline of the left in India, resistance to engaging with Western countries, particularly the US and Europe, has diminished.
• Balancing Domestic Sentiments: The government’s characterization of India as “non-West” but not “anti-West” aligns with the rising conservative nationalist sentiments. This stance facilitates India’s foreign policy in balancing domestic and international interests.
• Expanding Foreign Policy Horizons: This approach allows the government to maintain support from various domestic political factions while expanding India’s foreign policy horizons, especially in its relations with Western nations.