Foreign Policy Shift of India-2023

In a polarised world, the foreign policy of India is shifting from its axis and this tends to matter a lot. In today’s Dawn newspaper, The writer Jawed Naqvi discusses India’s foreign policy shift in his article :Lessons for the global professor . Listen, aspirants, your graphical representation and quotations matter much. Don’t forget to add in your answer with highlights. Well, the foreign policy shift of India especially in 2023 is a burning issue. So Let’s talk about it with the lense of Jawed Naqvi.

Figures:

The year 1968 is mentioned as the year when Indira Gandhi created India’s external spy agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW)

India’s Diplomatic Shift: Analyzing Modi’s Strategic Pivot from Nehruvian Ideals to Global Realpolitik

The passage reflects a critical perspective on India’s shifting international image under the Modi government, moving away from Nehruvian ideals towards a more aggressive stance, likened to “Rambo à la Israel.” This approach, characterized by the phrase ‘Ghar mein ghus ke maarenge’ (loosely translated as ‘I’ll come home to fix you’), is seen as a departure from India’s traditional soft power and cultural diplomacy. The author notes India’s respected intellectual and cultural contributions globally, citing figures like Gandhi, Geetanjali Shree, and Romila Thapar, as well as India’s influence through cinema and cricket.

However, recent developments suggest a disconnect between this image and India’s current international relations. Instances such as the Maldives asking Indian troops to leave, Sri Lanka’s engagement with China, Bhutan’s talks with China, and Qatar’s espionage accusations show strained relationships in the region. Furthermore, the global perception of India is tarnished by accusations of human rights violations and underhanded business practices, contrasting with its previous reputation.

The article also highlights diplomatic tensions with Western nations. For example, Canadian and American officials have raised concerns about India’s alleged involvement in assassinations and violence against Sikh activists, leading to diplomatic repercussions. These events, including the indictment of an Indian citizen in the US, suggest a complicated international scenario for India, potentially impacting its role in the US-led coalition against China and its overall global standing.

Facts From Lessons for the Global Professor

1. Shift in India’s Diplomatic Approach: The passage discusses a transition in India’s international image under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, moving from Nehruvian soft power to a more aggressive posture.
2. Regional Relations:
   • The Maldives has requested Indian troops stationed there to leave.
   • Sri Lanka has permitted a Chinese ‘research’ ship to dock at its port, causing unease in New Delhi.
   • Bhutan, traditionally aligned with Indian foreign policy advice, is engaging with China.
   • Qatar has accused former Indian military officers of espionage.
3. Global Perception:
   • Accusations against Indian businesses for using underhand methods and the government for human rights violations.
   • The UN secretary general criticized India for liberalizing coal mining amid the global battle against Covid-19.
4. Diplomatic Tensions with Western Nations:
   • Concerns raised by Canada and the USA about India’s alleged involvement in violence against Sikh activists.
   • An Indian citizen was indicted in a New York court for a plot to kill a Sikh Khalistani activist, a US citizen.
5. Reactions to Diplomatic Incidents:
   • Expulsion of Canadian diplomats from India and freezing of visa regimes.
   • Expulsion of the station chief of India’s spy agency from the Indian embassy in Canada.
   • Senior officials of India’s external spy agency were expelled from the UK and the US.

Tricky Terms Used in Foreign Policy Shift of India

Here’s a list of some difficult words from the article along with their meanings:

1. Sobriquet – A person’s nickname.
2. Nehruvian – Related to or characteristic of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, or his policies.
3. Rambo à la Israel – A reference combining the aggressive, action-oriented character Rambo with Israel, implying a tough, military-focused approach.
4. Masala (in movie context) – A style of Indian cinema featuring a mix of genres (like romance, action, drama).
5. Cogitation – The action of thinking deeply about something; contemplation.
6. Demarche – A political step or initiative by a diplomat.
7. Khalistani – Relating to Khalistan, a proposed independent state for Sikhs.
8. Powwow – A meeting or gathering for discussion, especially among friends or colleagues.
9. Lodestar – A person or thing that serves as an inspiration or guide.
10. Peaceniks – People who are strongly opposed to war and violence.
11. Indictment – A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
12. Sheet anchor – A reliable support or anchor, especially in times of trouble.
13. Quarry – A thing or person that is chased or sought.

These terms are useful while debating of foreign policy, especially in the context of India.

Still,you have any queries feel free to post in the comment section.