Foreign Policy and Security of India

In the early days of Indias independence, and in the absence of economic and political clout, India emphasised its civilisational and ideational properties to get visibility in world politics. However, the second most populous country in the world with a functioning democracy was kept out of the high tables of international politics by the big powers. The situation began to change with the end of Cold War when India registered impressive economic growth. The emergence of India as an increasingly influential power in international politics is a remarkable feature of the contemporary global system. Nations across the world – big and small – consider India an attractive partner and want to strengthen their relationship with it. India is spreading its wings to all parts of the world to consolidate its growing position as a pre-eminent power. Indias ambition to become a great power depends upon the careful formulation of its foreign policy strategies and perspectives. A systematic and thoughtful choreographing of Indias foreign policy is essential to realise its ambition to become a great power. Issues of cyber security, terrorism, maritime security and climate change need to be tackled with extra care at all levels. A country should have not only the ambition and capacity to become a great power but also the ability to shape and mould the behaviour of other states in a way that suits its interests. No country is destined to be a great power without working towards it. The consolidation of Indias position and great power status depends on the pursuance of its foreign policy through the 21st century. This book consists of 12 scholarly papers, authored by experts in the field, which provide deep insights into various aspects and dimensions of Indias foreign policy.