1

Indian Foreign Policy

After going through this unit, you should be able to understand

Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy
Objectives and Principles of Indian Foreign Policy
Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy
Overview of Narendra Modi Foreign Policy
Institutions of Foreign Policy Making

Development of Nation-States and increasing interactions among them has resulted into
formation of foreign policy in the modern times. There is certain unanimity among scholars
and statesmen on necessity of a foreign policy for each state, since no state will like to
function in complete isolation from rest of the world. Feliks Gross said that even a decision to
have no relations with a particular state is also a foreign policy or, in other words, not to have
a definite foreign policy is also a foreign policy. So, for the study of foreign policy of a
country, we need to know the background conditions or the determinants which provide the
foundations for objectives and principles of foreign policy of a country, same holds true for
India foreign policy.

The Principle determinants of Indias foreign policy are:

1. Geography

The primary determinant of foreign policy is the geography of any security. The location, size
and shape of the country are the main geographical factors influencing the foreign policy.
Location of the Indian subcontinent at the head of Indian Ocean and as a connecting link
between South-East Asia and West Asia has always influenced the foreign policy of Indian
subcontinent. The security and tranquillity of the region from the Horn of Africa to the Strait
of Malacca affects the fortunes of the Indian subcontinent due to its location factor. Secondly,
territorial size of a state influences its foreign policy in a sense that bigger the size greater
role the state can play in international politics. Indias ambitions to achieve great power status
in world politics can be attributed to its size. The vast size makes India a neighbour to a large
number of countries. On land borders, it has
China, Nepal, Bhutan in the North, Myanmar, and
Bangladesh in the East and Pakistan in the West. IOR-ARC
While on maritime borders it has Thailand, o Year of establishment: 6
March 1997
Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Maldives. o H.Q. is Ebene, Mauritius
Thus vast size, thus, presents both an opportunities o Membership is 20 states and
to develop relations with neighbours and as well as 7 dialogue partners
challenges to manage the bilateral relations o Secretary General: K V
Bhagirath
simultaneously. Lastly, the shape of the country
makes it a maritime player. It provides an
opportunity for Indian leaders to project Indian
leadership role in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). An example of such framework is the
establishment of Indian Ocean RIM Association (IOR-ARC) in 1997 shows Indias attempt
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to assert her supremacy over maritime in IOR and also to maintain relations with maritime
neighbours such as Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, and Madagascar.

2. History and Culture

Historical experiences and cultural traditions of a state exert influence on its foreign policy.
Generally, state with unified culture and common history finds it easier to formulate effective
and consistent foreign policy. In such a case, overwhelming majority of people, who share
similar experiences and common perceptions of historical events, support the states foreign
policy. Elements such as anti-imperialism, anti-racial and democratic outlook of the national
leaders during the nation freedom struggle has its imprint in the evolution of India foreign
policy. The freedom struggle was shaped by the ideological and intellectual moorings
provided by the interaction with western liberal ideology and the Indian renaissance of the
19th century. Further, the anti-imperial and anti-racial stances are an offshoot of Indian
culture of religious harmony and treating all individuals equally. India has been a land
accommodating all the persecuted, religious and ethnic minorities from different parts of the
world at different point of time.

3. International Environment

A prevalent framework of world politics plays decisive role in deciding the foreign policy of
a country. The post independence foreign policy
of India was reflected on the post world war II SEATO
world politics. When India became independent, o Formed in 8 September 1954
world was divided into two hostile camp, which o Disbanded on 30 June 1977
o H.Q. was Bangkok, Thailand
was much beyond Indias capacity to change. In
o Members were Australia,
the bi-polar world dominated by military France, New Zealand,
alliances, India sought to secure its territorial Philippines, Thailand, U.K.,
integration and strive for technical and economic USA and Pakistan (East and
now Bangladesh)
development without falling into the trap of cold
CENTO
war. o Also known as Baghdad Pact
or Middle East Treaty
In the subsequent years, as Pakistan moved closer Organisation
to the western block by joining Southeast Asia o Formed in 1955
Treaty Organisation (SEATO) and Central Treaty o Disbanded on 1979
o H.Q. was Ankara
Organisation (CENTO) and China became hostile o Members were Iran, Iraq,
to India, New Delhi forged closer comprehensive Pakistan, Turkey and U.K.
ties with the USSR to secure territorial defence.
The Indo-soviet friendship treaty (1971) was thus
dictated more by the prevailing international
environment than any desire on part of India to be a part of any block fighting cold war.

The end of cold war and the disintegration of Soviet Union further reflected reorientation of
Indias foreign policy and it was necessitated to adopted look east policy and moves swiftly
to develop its relations with all major actors in international environment. The evolution of
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Indo- US and India EU relations in the post cold war period affirms the adjustments in Indian
foreign policy due to change in international political environment.

4. Leadership

Leadership plays influential role in the countrys foreign policy. Rosenau says (World
Politics: An Introduction) , A leaders belief about the nature of international arena and the
goals that ought to be pursued therein, his or her peculiar intellectual strengths and weakness
for analyzing information and making decisions, his or her past background and the extent of
its relevance to the requirements of the role, his or her emotional needs and most of other
personality traits these are but a few of the idiosyncratic factors that can influence the
planning and execution of foreign policy.

Indias foreign policy is also reflection of intellectual and political orientation of its leaders. It
was Nehrus liberal and pacifist outlook which resulted to resolution to conflicts in world
politics. It was his leadership skills that pushed India to adopt universal disarmament and
Panchsheel as its foreign policy principles. It was during 1965 Indo-Pak war when Lal
Bahadur Shastri decisively opted for launching attack on Pakistan across the entire
international borders. In this war, Pakistan was defeated comprehensively and the lost pride
of Indian state during Indo-China war of 1962 was partially regained.

This legacy of decisiveness in India foreign policy was showed during Mrs Indira Gandhi
role in 1970 Indo-Pak war. Mrs. Indira Gandhis apt decision-making in 1971 helped India
not only to defeat Pakistan militarily but also to counter diplomatic pressures applied by the
United States and China on the latters behest.

Similarly, Rajiv Gandhi and P V Narsimha Rao also had their imprint of Indian foreign
policy. Rajiv Gandhi foreign policy overtures to improve relations with all world powers
specially US and China were his contribution to Indian foreign policy. The Look East
Policy of Narsimha Rao was the product of his acumen and experience as a foreign minister
with previous government.

In the later years, I K Gujrals Gujral Doctrine and A B Vajpayees decision for going
nuclear played crucial role in breaking the self-imposed freeze on countrys nuclearization.
It was the decisions taken by these leaders on the back of their personal motivations and
sound understanding of India foreign policy. Thus, foreign policy of India and its evolution
has been a handmade of its leaders and decision makers.
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Objectives and Principles of Indian Foreign Policy

Objectives

Following are some of the key general objectives of Indias foreign policy:

o The primary objective of Indian foreign policy is to secure the territorial integrity.
Friendship treaties or military assistance from other countries during the cold war
were to strengthen India military and deter nay attacks on its soil. So also, Indias
decision to go nuclear was part of Indias defensive strategy to secure its borders from
nuclear countries like Pakistan and China.
o A foreign policy defends interests of its citizens both inside and outside the country.
For example, successive Indian governments keep in mind interests of farmers while
negotiating bi-lateral and multi-lateral trade agreements. A primary interest of any
country is in self preservation and well-being of its citizens. In modern times,
economic development is one of the key factors in determining states international
status. Thus, the treaties and agreements concluded with other states are drafted in a
way to protect and promote economic interests of its own.
o World peace and harmony are the avowed objectives of Indian foreign policy as also
enshrined in the Article 51 of the constitution. Till date, India is the largest contributor
to UN peacekeeping forces due to our commitment to world peace and security.
o A foreign policy tries to maintain contacts and develop good relations with all other
states in order to enhance economic and technological co-operation with them with a
view to promote its own interests. Indian government lost no time in recognizing
newly independent African and Asian countries and immediately established
diplomatic relations with them to create its sphere of influence and good will in those
countries. On the contrary, diplomatic cut-off with a particular country on issues of
ideology or national interest can also be part of states foreign policy.

Principles

The founding principle of Indian foreign policy is the Buddhist doctrine of Panchsheel and
peaceful coexistence. It was in 1954 that Beijing and New Delhi jointly proposed Five
Principles of Peaceful Co-existence known as Panchsheel primarily to guide the bilateral
relations between them. Panchsheel includes five fold principles of mutual respect for
sovereignty and integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each others internal
affairs, equality and mutual benefit and peaceful co-existence. It also becomes the moving
force behind Asian and African movement for equality and freedom against domination of
the world by colonial and imperialist powers.

Secondly, non-alignment has been the guiding principle of our foreign policy right from
1947. It was dictated by prevailing conditions in world politics. India wanted to avoid the
cold war rivalry and did not want to be a part of any military block. However, Indias non-
alignment policy does not mean to isolate from International politics but to show India as a
sovereign democratic country and to protect the national interest of the country. This policy
 5

paid off for India as we were able to get technical and economic assistance from both western
countries and the USSR for our country nation building and economic development.

Thirdly, India has always supported the anti-racial and anti-imperial politics. The roots of
Indias stand lies in her own experience of colonial rule. Therefore post independence anti-
racialism and anti-imperialism become one of the major principles of India foreign policy.
India began to play a pioneering role in condemning the policy of apartheid and racial
discrimination pursued by the Government of South Africa. India also supported various
resolutions including the 1960 UN General Assembly resolution on freedom of dependent
people and nationalities. In order to assert her stand, India used the NAM platform to support
the struggle of the people against racialism and imperialism. Thus, India still cherish and
believes in the relevance of these noble goals and support the efforts of the developing
countries to reduce their dependence on developed countries.

Fourthly, another important component of India foreign policy is that of disarmament and
arms control. Starting from 1954 proposal by Nehru in the UN general assembly to 1998
proposal by Rajiv Gandhi, India has supported universal disarmament. But our experience
with the 1968 Nuclear non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) and Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty
(CTBT) was an eye opener to India. India was forced to go nuclear in 1998 because of the
failure of NPT and CTBT to prevent vertical and horizontal proliferation as the treatise are
considered discriminatory and create nuclear haves and have nots. Since then, India has
adopted the policy of credible minimum nuclear deterrent, according to which it has instated
no first use policy of nuclear weapons and maintains the nuclear arsenal under civilian
political control.

Fifthly, based on principles of Panchsheel and Non-alignment, India consistently emphasized

on settlement of international disputes through dialogue and negotiations and embedded our
support to UN. In order to promote international understanding and peace, Nehru had
repeatedly spoke about futility of war and warned of ultimate disasters if Third World War
would broke out. Even though such emphasize did not always result in success, it had
certainly helped in reducing international tensions. Indias role in Korean crisis (1950),
Vietnam War (1954), Suez Canal crisis (1956) is a testament of our approach for settling
major conflicts.

Sixthly, Indias stand to promote solidarity of the developing countries on economic and
political issues of common concern like WTO negotiations and expansion of UN Security
Council is a major principle of Indian foreign policy.

Lastly, India seeks friendly ties with all its neighbours and co-operations among all the
countries in South Asia. Therefore, SAARC receives big support from Indian establishment,
which sees as a tool to promote regional trade, business and people to people exchanges.
Apart from SAARC, India is actively involved in cooperation with Association of South East
Asian Nations (ASEAN), Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and African Union
(AU). Similarly, Indias endeavour to develop forums like India Brazil South Africa forum
 6

(IBSA), Bay of Bengal initiative for Multi Sectoral Techno Economic Co-operation
(BIMSTEC) is a part of our bigger strategy to develop South-South cooperation.

In sum, the founding fathers of independent India laid down the solid framework of nations
foreign policy. The framework is based on principles of Panchsheel, Non-alignment,
promotion of World peace, disarmament and arms control and regional cooperation. These
principles helped India in protecting its national interests and borders, ensuring its economic
development, protecting interests of people of Indian origins abroad, de-colonization of Asia
and Africa, and to end the racialism. Therefore, India not only promoted its own interests but
also attempted to shape the world according to its ideology and principles. Thus, Indian
foreign policy presents a unique and balanced blend of realism and idealism.
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Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy

The evolution of Indian foreign policy since independence has passed through various phases
and every successive phase is built on experience, leadership skills and adapt according to the
changing dynamics of international politics.

India under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru as the chief architect of Indian foreign policy
guided the countrys participation in the world affairs for nearly twenty years. Even after his
death, his legacy continued till the end of the Cold War. As quoted by Nehru in V.P. Dutt,
Indias Foreign Policy, 1984, the art of conducting the foreign affairs of a country lies in
finding out what is the most advantageous to the country. This statement clearly shows that
national interest was the governing principle of Indias foreign policy as conceived by Pt.
Nehru, the architect of this policy.

Nehru deriving from Indian historical and cultural traditions of non-violence and peaceful co-
existence and adapting to the prevailing conditions in the international politics steered the
ship of the Indian foreign policy. His keen
understanding of international affairs and the Bandung Conference
Indian culture of assimilation of all diversities The Bandung Conference was a
propelled his foreign policy to adopt an ant-racial meeting of Asian and African states,
which took place on April 1824,
and anti-imperial stance. His support to the various 1955 in Bandung, Indonesia. The
freedom struggles going in different parts of the conference was organised by
world was an important objective of Indian foreign Indonesia, Burma, Pakistan, Ceylon
policy to achieve the free, democratic and peaceful (Sri Lanka), and India. The
conference was an important step
world order. Similarly, Indias adoption of the toward the Non-Aligned Movement.
policy of non-alignment was dictated by prevailing
international political scenario and Indias attempt
to push for importance of the collective voice of
the Afro-Asian region on the world stage. The Bandung conference of 1955 was the starting
point for launching this strategy of India.

Operating in the midst of these complexities, Indias foreign policy had the following
objectives before her:
i. National security
ii. Nation building and development
iii. Improvement of the international environment
iv. National status in the world affairs

It was in this context that nonaligned stance was regarded as a balance of power policy. It
was also felt that this policy would help India generate capability for the maintenance of her
national security. Thus, this period has sometimes been called as the golden age of Indias
foreign policy.
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It was the second decade of independence that turned out to be more difficult. During this
period the basic postulates of the foreign policy faced the harshest challenges. The conflict of
Sino-India war (1962) was a severe blow to Indias prestige in the Afro-Asian block, and
Nehrus approach of an idealistic foreign policy
came under severe criticism. However, this defeat
in 1962 war proved a blessing in disguise for the Tashkent Agreement
military modernisation and the infrastructure The agreement provided for the
following
building as during the 1965 Indo-Pak war India o Restoration of normal and
defeated Pakistan comprehensively. peaceful relations between
India and Pakistan.
The victory in 1965 war was also a result of o Reaffirmation of their
exemplary and decisive leadership by Lal Bahadur obligations under UN charter
to settle their disputes
Shashtri. He gave slogan Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan on
through peaceful means.
the wake of the Indo-Pak war, which took place in o Agreement to base their
September 1965. Ultimately, ceasefire was relations on the principle of
declared under the auspices of the United Nations non-interference in the
internal affairs of each other.
Security Council. The Soviet Union took the
o Meetings at the highest level
initiatives to bring about peace negotiations as also at other levels to
between India and Pakistan. Shastri met Field discuss matters of direct
Marshall Ayub Khan, President of Pakistan in concern to both.
Tashkent and signed the Tashkent Declaration on
10 January 1966. Unfortunately, Shastri passed
away after signing the Tashkent agreement in
Tashkent. In January 1966, Indira Gandhi became the first women Prime Minister of India.

When Indira Gandhi came to power, India was grappling with hard times during 1966-69.
The troubles had arisen in the aftermath of border war with China and these increased with
two years of severe drought accompanied by flooding in other parts of the country which had
give impact on the economy of the country and also constrained Indias assertiveness and
capacity to take initiatives in international relations and on her policy of non-alignment.

Soon after Indira Gandhi assumed the office, she expressed her solidarity and moral support
to the principles of non-alignment. In the Third Tripartite Conference of leaders of United
Arab Republics, Yugoslavia and India in New Delhi (1966), expressed the concern of Indira
Gandhi and others over the imposition of various forms of imperialism and neo-colonialism
and the continued threat to world peace due to gross interference in the internal affairs of
independent countries through the medium of economic and financial assistance. They also
expressed their deep concern at the serious situation in South-East Asia and the miseries of
the Vietnamese people and demanded a cessation of bombing of North Vietnam. They called
for the implementation of the Geneva agreements and withdrawal of all foreign forces as well
as the participation of the South Vietnamese Liberation Front in the efforts for the realisation
of peace in Vietnam. This was rather courages stand taken by Indira Gandhi as the economic
crisis had made India heavily dependent of the United States.
 9

However, the Indo-US relations suffered several

setbacks because of Indias role in the Bangladesh Simla Agreement
crisis. It was most critical and dangerous challenge The agreement provided that:
o Both the parties would
to India which she faced in the 1970s. As the resolve their differences by
difference between West Pakistan and East peaceful means through
Pakistan mounted, there started an exodus of bilateral negotiations and
committed themselves to
refugees into India. Besides the suffering of the
peaceful coexistence, respect
people of Bangladesh, India had to suppress the for each others territorial
threat to its security by this unprecedented flow of integrity, sovereignty and
refugees. Even the naive could see that Pakistan non-interference in each
others internal affairs.
had the backing of USA and China. It was in this
o Meeting between the Heads
context that the Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace and of State would be convened
Friendship was concluded in 1971. This treaty to discuss the future ways
provided that the two countries would keep in and means for the
establishment of durable
touch with each other on major international
peace and normalisation of
problems affecting the interests of both the parties. relations.
They agreed not to enter into or participate in
military alliance, which is directed against any one
of them. They treaty was like a shield against both
Washington and Chinese designs of any military actions against Indian in the unfolding
Bangladesh crisis.

This step kept away major powers from the 1970 Indo-Pak War. India gave immediate
recognition to the state of Bangladesh. Ultimately, the Indo-Pak relations were normalised
with the Simla Summit held on 1 July 1972 which sought to resolve several issues in their
bilateral relations, known as Simla Agreement.
Pokhran Nuclear Test
This was a glowing tribute to the success of Indian On May 18, 1974, India conducted its
foreign policy, despite the criticism that India was first nuclear test in Pokhran,
not truly nonaligned and that the Indias policy was Rajasthan. In doing so, India became
relatively more aligned in favour of the communist the worlds sixth nuclear power after
the United States, Soviet Union,
bloc. The only remark that can be made in this Britain, France and China. Smiling
context is that more than anything else, external Buddha was the code name of
relations is motivated by the national interest. Pokhran nuclear test. A team of
scientists and engineers led by Raja
The lessons learnt in the 1971 Indo-Pak war Ramanna, PK Iyengar, Rajagopala
propelled India to develop its nuclear options. The Chidambaram and others had worked
on it from 1967 to 1974.
result was the 1974 Pokhran peaceful nuclear
explosions strengthening the morale of the army
and proving the mettle to our scientific community. However, due to instability in political
circumstances relegated foreign policy to the background and domestic issues dominated the
scene.
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In the general elections of 1977, Janata Party came

to power for a very brief period from 1977-1979. Confidence Building Measures
The first non-congress government under Morariji (CBMs)
Desai added a new dimension to the Indian foreign The first nuclear CBM was the
policy under their stated principle of Genuine Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear
Non-alignment. India tried to improve its relations Facilities, which was signed by Indian
Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and
with the western block specially the US. Jimmy
Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir
Carters 1978 visit to India reflected this change in
Bhutto on December 31, 1988. It was
US outlook towards India. ratified in 1991 and implemented in
As far as Indias relations with her neighbours were January 1992. The bilateral agreement
prohibits attack, directly or indirectly,
concerned there were tremendous improvements.
against nuclear installations or
Janata government under the dynamic foreign
facilities in either country. In an effort
minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee adopted a to be more transparent, the agreement
proactive approach and visited the neighbouring also requires an annual exchange of
countries including China and Pakistan. But this lists detailing the location of all
proved short lived as the Janata government fell in nuclear-related facilities in each
1979. country. Lists of the facilities covered
by this agreement are now exchanged
The congress came back to power in 1980 and periodically, but often have not been
continued with tradition of forging national wholly accepted by the other side.
consensus on major foreign policy issues and did
not reverse the foreign policy decisions taken by
the previous Janata government. After the
assassination of Mrs. Indira Gandhi in 1984, Rajiv Gandhi became the youngest Prime
Minister of India. In the following years, in 1988 Rajiv Gandhi visit to Pakistan was
momentous in India-Pak relations. The Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) were
developed and an agreement on information on each others nuclear installations was signed,
which was path-breaking given the history of the volatile bilateral relations of the two
countries.

Similarly, Rajiv Gandhi was successful in melting the ice in Indo-China relations. His visit to
China in 1989 was symbolic in the sense that India accepted the Chinese viewpoint of
broadening exchange in other areas without making these developments contingent on the
resolution of the border issue. Several Confidence Building Measures were proposed and an
agreement on maintaining peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) was
signed. This agreement proved a starting point for re-invigorating the Sino-Indian relations
and economic interaction was emphasised.

However, tensions emanating in Sri Lanka due to ethnic conflict also affected Indias
domestic politics and also her security when a large number of Tamilians fled from Sri Lanka
and crossed over to India. To improve the bilateral relations an accord was signed between
Rajiv Gandhi and President Jayewardane on 29 July 1987. The Indian Peacekeeping Forces
(IPKF) action thereafter, drew criticisms from different quarters and is seen as Indias
greatest foreign policy blunder, yet it had helped in restoring peace in Sri Lanka.
 11
When the National Front came to power in 1989
under the Prime Minister V.P. Singh, the foreign
policy aspect partially suffered because it was a
government beleaguered with internal conflicts
and always worried about its majority in the
parliament. Moreover, Indian foreign policy
posture needed to be adjusted accordingly. While
Iraqs invasion of Kuwait under Saddam Hussein
resulting in the First Gulf War of 1990 marked the
beginning of American armed superiority, the
breakup of Soviet Union altered the balance of
power in the world. The collapse of the
communist regimes in Eastern Europe and the
disintegration of Soviet Union substantially
changed the world order and a new post Cold War
emerged. Indias foreign policy had to formulate
keeping these changes in mind. Accordingly, India
adjusted to this changed environment and
developed its relations with countries and regions
of the world which was hitherto untouched by the Indian foreign policy. Establishment of
diplomatic relationship with Israel in 1993 was a step taken to balance Indias West Asia
policy and tap the technological and defence
expertise of Israel for Indias security and
development.
V.P. Singh held office from 2 December 1989 to
10 November 1990. After the BJP withdrew
support to the V.P. Singh government, he
resigned after losing the trust vote. Chandra
Shekhar with the outside support from Congress
became the 11th Prime Minister of India. He
finally resigned after the Congress withdrew
support from his government.
The INC with a nominal majority came to power
with Narasimha Rao as the Prime Minister after
the general election of 1991. During this time
India was faced with crumbling economcy with
a balance of payment crisis which had left
Indias foreign exchange reserves for only two
weeks. Therefore, Dr. Manmohan Singh, the
then Finance Minister began a more substantial
economic reforms to help Indias economy and
boost production. Therefore, greater emphasis
India Peacekeeping Force (IPKF)
It was formed under the mandate of
the 1987 Indo-Sri Lankan Accord that
aimed to end the Sri Lankan Civil
War between militant Sri Lankan
Tamil nationalists such as the
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam
(LTTE) and the Sri Lankan military.
The IPKF began withdrawing from
Sri Lanka in 1989, following the
election of the V. P. Singh
government in India and on the
request of the newly elected Sri
Lankan President Ranasinghe
Premadasa. The last IPKF contingents
left Sri Lanka in March 1990.
Commonwealth of Independent
States (CIS)
o It is a regional organisation
formed during the breakup of
the Soviet Union, whose
participating countries are
some former Soviet Republics
The organization was founded
on 8 December 1991 by the
Republic of Belarus, the
Russian Federation, and
Ukraine, when the leaders of
the three countries met in the
Belovezhskaya Pushcha in
Belarus and signed the
Agreement Establishing the
Commonwealth of
Independent States.
o Membership: 9 members and
2 associates.
o Executive Secretary: Sergei
Lebedev.
 12

was placed on economic diplomacy a departure from the traditional foreign policy stance of
India.

Nevertheless, Rao government tries to maintain ties with the erstwhile Soviet Union i.e with
the Soviet Union as well as new Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). During his
government, the Rupee-Rouble exchange rate was resolved and also substituted 1971 Indi-
Soviet Treaty by a new fourteen clause Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation valid for 20
years.

Another major step after the end of cold war was

I.K. Gural Doctrine
the launch of Look East Policy by Naraimha Rao The Gujral doctrine was a five-point
government. Association of South East Asian roadmap which sought to build trust
Nations (ASEAN) which emerged during the cold between India and neighbours, of
war era also felt the need to balance the rising solution to bilateral issues through
bilateral talks and to remove
regional hegemony in the form of China. This immediate quid pro quos in
provided India with unique opportunity to engage diplomatic relationship between India
this region as the economies of both the regions are and her neighbours. The Doctrine
complementary. emphasized on the importance of
unilateral accommodation for friendly
and warm relations with Indias
The government also attempted to strengthen
neighbours.
Indias relations with the US, as after the fall of The five principles are:
Soviet Union the balance in international politics 1. With neighbours like Bangladesh,
was lost, and it was prudent on the part of the Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri
Indian state to develop its relations with the only Lanka, India does not ask for
reciprocity, but gives and
superpower. However, the perception of US policy accommodates what it can in good
towards India was viewed through the prism of faith and trust.
cold war as Clintons administration policy towards 2. No South Asian country should
India was to restrict, rollback and eliminate the allow its territory to be used against
the interest of another country of the
Indian Nuclear Programme. region.
3. No country should interfere in the
This different persisted also during the United internal affairs of another.
Front Government of 1997 and 1998 under I.K. 4. All South Asian countries must
Gujral as it was brought to the fore during the respect each others territorial
negotiation of a Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty integrity and sovereignty.
5. They should settle all their disputes
(CTBT). The achievement in the foreign policy through peaceful bilateral
field in this period was the propounding of Gujral negotiations.
Doctrine under which India proposed to give all
assistance possible to the smaller neighbours in
good faith without any expectations of reciprocity.
India tried to resolve long standing conflict issues
with her neighbours. Treaties were signed with Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka as a part of
this doctrine. It was believed that the Gujral doctrine would help reduce the chances of cross-
border interference, terrorism, sectarian violence and communal conflict, which are endemic
in South Asia. I.K. Gujral emphasised on track two diplomacy. This has been defined as a
process of unofficial dialogue between disputing polities conducted directly or with the help
 13

of influential citizens who have an ability to mould public opinion. This period was also very
short lived due to unstable nature of the United Front Government.

The 12th Lok Sabha was constituted on 10 March

1998, and a coalition led by the BJP leader Atal Pokhran Nuclear Test (1998)
Bihari Vajpayee was sworn in as the Prime It was the series of five nuclear bomb
Minister. The highlight of the Vajpayee test explosions conducted by India at
the Indian Army's Pokhran Test
governments foreign policy was the Pokhran Range in May 1998. It was known as
explosion on 11May 1998 and the Kargil War. Operation Shakti (Pokhran-II). Late
Nuclear explosions however earned criticisms form A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was the Chief
the world community, especially the USA, which Project Coordinator of Pokhran II.
imposed sanctions on India. The United States also
pressurised the World Bank and the IMF and other
international financial institutions to withhold new
assistance. The nuclear powers organised
themselves into Nuclear Suppliers Groups (NSG) that decided how much and to whom
nuclear materials, even for peaceful purposes,
would be supplied. However, due to increased Nuclear Suppliers Groups (NSG)
activities of terrorists in Pakistan, the US stance The NSG was founded in response to
towards India began to change and President the Indian nuclear test in May 1974
Clinton visited India in March 2000. When and first met in November 1975. As
President Bush assumed office in 2001, he did not of 2014 NSG has 48 members.
stop searching for avenues for new relationship During Republic Day visit of India in
with India. But it was only after 9/11 attacks on the January 2015, Obama said that India
United States and the 13 December attack on the was ready for NSG membership but
China attempt to block India's entry
Indian Parliament in 2001 that Indo-US
into the Nuclear Suppliers Group or
relationship take a new turn as both pledged to
NSG provides a hurdle to India
fight against international terrorism.
nuclear programme.
India in her bid to normalised relationship with
Pakistan, the Vijpayee government as a part of
confidence building measure with Pakistan inaugurated a bus service from Lahore- Amritsar
in February 1999 and also signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) reaffirming their
unilateral moratorium on further nuclear testing and confidence building measures. But the
Kargil War disrupted the peace process. Gradually, it was followed by the visit of General
Musharraf to India for talks in Agra in 2001. However, the talks failed to make any notable
breakthrough and even later the strain in Indo-Pak relation continued because of Pakistans
insistence of linking Kashmir as the core issues which has always been rejected by India, and
Indias stand on cross-border terrorism which Pakistan always rejects out of hand.

In the 14th Lok Sabha election 2004, the Congress party with the help of its allies formed the
government, which came to be known as the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) and
continued the second term with its victory in the 15th Lok Sabha election. Dr. Manmohan
Singh assumed as the Prime Minister. Manmohan Singhs foreign policy posture marked
 14

continuity in its relations to improve relations with the United States, China and Pakistan and
Indias neighbours.

The most remarkable breakthrough that Manmohan Singhs government was able to make
was the Nuclear Deal with the United States, when India and United States signed the
landmark Civilian Nuclear Agreement in Washington DC on 18 July 2005 and on 1 August
2008, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) cleared India Specific safeguards
Agreement that defined the level of supervision on civilian plants. Moreover, another
important aspect was the role of Indian Diaspora in the bilateral relations that became an
important priority in Indias foreign policy. The efforts of the Indian-American community to
strengthen its relations with the US and conclusion of Indo-US civil nuclear deal was
culmination of the efforts of the two countries fully supported by the Indian- American
community.

Regarding Indias relation with China, she was making a laudable progress and the highlight
of the relationship during this period was the Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabos visit in
April 2005 and President Hu Jintaos visit in November 2006. Yet irritants still remained
centring around issues of unresolved border problems and Chinese policies towards Pakistan.

This phase of Indian foreign policy was also a paradigm shift in another sense, as geo-
economics had begun taking centre stage. India
started focusing on the economic relations not MERCOSUR
only at the SAARC level but at the global level o It is a sub-regional bloc. Its
also. Starting with India-Sri Lanka Free Trade purpose is to promote free
trade and free movement of
Area (FTA) in 1998 India concluded various goods, people, and currency.
trade agreements with its partners including o Members: Argentina, Brazil,
Singapore, Thailand, Mercosur and ASEAN Paraguay, Uruguay and
countries. Venezuela
o Associate members are
India in quest to focus on economic diplomacy Bolivia, Chile, Peru,
Colombia, Ecuador and
and immediate neighbouring countries has not Suriname
lost sight of the larger global issues on o Observer members are New
international peace and development. The cause Zealand and Mexico
for the developing countries for an equitable and o Year of establishment: 26
March 1991
just world order has always been on the agenda of o H.Q. Montevido
the India foreign policy. Indias role in the World
Trade Organisation negotiations as a member of
G20 has been appreciated as an attempt to
champion the cause of an equitable growth and development worldwide.

Indias attempt to forge the developing worlds solidarity or South-South Cooperation is the
moving force behind the origin of forum like India-Brazil-South Africa forum and Indias
participation in the programmes like New Economic Partnership for African Development
(NEPAD). Thus, India has worked as a bridging power between the developed and the
developing world and worked on the core themes of developed and vibrant India in an
 15

equitable and just world order. India has also tried to achieve the goal of democratizing the
United Nations and aspired to actively participate as a permanent member of UN Security
Council. The G4 attempt by India, Japan, Germany and Brazil was the most important
example of India working as a bridging power by bringing together both the developed
(Japan and Germany) and developing (Brazil) countries, and casting the world order in its
image of true replica of the prevailing international world order.

Question Bank
1. Who was the brain child behind Look East Policy?
2. When was Panchseel signed?
3. Non-Proliferation and Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty came into force in
4. Which conference initiated movement for NAM?
5. Who gave the slogan Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan?
6. Which agreement concluded Bangladesh Liberation War?
7. Civil Nuclear Agreement was signed on
8. PMO is administratively headed by
9. Who is Indias first National Security adviser?
10. Name the G4 countries?
 16

Overview of Prime Minister Narendra Modis Foreign Policy

Ever since the BJP led NDA government under Narendra Modi has taken over in May 2014,
several bold and noteworthy initiatives have been taken in engaging with immediate as well
as extended neighbourhood. Mr. Arvind Virmani in an article in The Hindu titled
Recalibrating Indias Foreign Policy has indentified five areas of emerging changes in the
Indian foreign policy under the NDA government: There are five areas of the emerging
change: the centrality given to economic and technological development; the orientation of
domestic and foreign policies toward this objective; the emphasis on national power
including military power; and stress on soft power; and a reduction in self-imposed
constraints on actions that other countries may construe as inimical to their interests.

Neighbourhood focus

To secure Indias sphere of influence in South Asia and counter Chinas growing role, PM
Modi struck all the right notes by inviting all the heads of states of South Asian countries in
his swearing-in-ceremony and visited the neighbourhood countries.

Modi first visit was to Bhutan. His visit assumed importance since China has been
intensifying efforts to woo Bhutan and establish full-fledged relations with it. India
has been supporting Bhutans successive five year plans since the 1960s; assistance
for the 11th plan. Indo-Bhutan hydro power cooperation has been highly successful
and is an excellent example of a win-win partnership that provides electricity for India
and revenue for Bhutan.
PM Mode participated in SAARC summit in Kathmandu. He visited the Seychelles,
Mauritius and Sri Lanka in May 2015 to underscore the importance of the Indian
Ocean for the countrys geo-strategic interests. The Mauritius and Seychelles visit
was noteworthy for its focus on the blue economy.
India and other countries like Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan have decided to go
ahead on regional integration minus Pakistan. Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal
(BBIN) signed a motor vehicle agreement for the regulation of passenger, cargo and
personnel traffic between the four nations on June 15, 2015. According to Nitin
Gadkari, Indias minister for road transport, highways and shipping, this needs to be
supplemented through building and upgrading roads, railways and waterways, energy
grids, communications and air links. This initiative boosts connectivity within South
Asia.

ASEAN

The upgrading of Look East policy to Act East strategy by the present government
to deepen engagement with the region has witnessed greater bilateral cooperation and
enhanced foreign policy commitment towards the ASEAN nations. Indias free trade
agreement with ASEAN was recently expanded to include investment and trade in
services.
The Asian security environment is faced with multiple challenges like terrorism,
piracy, maritime disputes, territorial disputes, environmental degradation and
 17

humanitarian crisis. India has able to maintain strategic cooperation, especially

maritime security cooperation with ASEAN countries. It is important that India to
continue to enhance defence and security cooperation with Southeast Asia through
bilateral dialogues.

Central Asian Region (CAR)

CAR is a part of Indias strategic neighbourhood with which India shares common history
and cultural affinity. CAR has the potential to provide for Indias energy shortages. India has
been engaging with these countries since their independence and searching for ways for
economic engagement. Prime Minister Modi visit to Central Asian nations in 2015 has
boosted strategic and energy cooperation with the region. The visit gave a roadmap for
making Indias connect-Central Asia policy into a strategic action plan at a time when China
is focusing more on the region and the US presence in Afghanistan, adjoining many Central
Asian countries is diminishing. The Prime Ministers visit to the 5 states, which was last done
by PM Nehru in June 1955, had a threefold focus: energy, exports and as a counterpoint to
China inroads in the region.

Beyond Asia

Indias relationship with countries outside Asia and the extended neighbourhood is an
important priority. India has developed an extremely strong and multifaceted relationship
with each of the P-5 countries and with the developed countries in general.

Indias relations with USA today has developed into a global strategic partnership,
since the signing of nuclear deal in 2008 which indirectly legitimised Indian standing
as the nuclear power. India also seeks cooperation with US to enhance its capacity to
address emerging challenges. In this partnership, India looks at the US as a source of
prosperity and security for its citizens. The PM visits are being described as
transformative in a manner that it has reenergised Indo-US ties. The bilateral
cooperation is broad-based and multi-sectoral and includes US investment,
commercial exchanges, renewal of Indo-US defence relationship- establishment of
Defence Trade and Technical Initiative, education, science and technology, cyber
security and in space technology etc are crucial for Indias growth and emerging role
as a major power in the Asia Pacific region.
Russia, the oldest strategic partner continues to be key priority in India foreign policy,
India enjoys special, privileged and strategic partnership with Russia which is unique
and multidimensional. Indo-Russia bilateral relationship stands on six main pillars of
close political cooperation and coordination in defence, civil nuclear energy, space,
hydrocarbon and Science and Technology. The enhanced relations between India and
USA seem to have affected Indo-Russia relations as the Russian position as the main
supplier of defence equipment had been compromised. However, despite this
development, India-Russia defence cooperation has recently reached a new high with
announcement of joint production of various equipments in India.
 18

Along with CARs, the gulf region and the West Asian region is of significant
importance to India as major source of energy supplies. This region is also home to
over seven million overseas India workers whose remittances are a huge support for
Indian economy. However, the region unfortunately did not receive the much needed
importance till the Prime Ministers visit to guff regions, the first Prime Minister who
visited the region after 34 years. PM Modi advocated Indias image and Diaspora as
the economics of India and many Middle Eastern countries are complimentary to each
other. Indias relations with Middle East were for many years, driven purely by
economics. But now, new strategic factors are at play. The Middle East is located on
the western edge of what India sees as its sphere of influence-the Indian Ocean. The
nation has historic trade routes sweeping as far as the Mediterranean. Better ties with
the Arab states could help India strategically. Modi has also made it clear that this
region is very important for India. Delhi has planned out long term visions in the
Gulf. India must translate the concluded agreements into actions.
Latin America has been conspicuously absent from Indian foreign policy due to the
attributed extremely long geographical distance between the two and competing
domestic and international priorities. However, it is now becoming important for
India, particularly in the economic arena. Although it is unclear how far and deep that
cooperation will proceed, India-Latin America relations are on an upswing. The PM
visited Braxil in July 2014 to attend annual BRICs summit hosted by Brazilian
President Dilma Rousseff and held useful discussions. He also used the opportunity to
meet with other Latin American heads of state and pledged greater Indian engagement
with the region. India imports almost 20% of its crude oil from Brazil, Columbia,
Mexico and Venezuela and has emerged as a key contributor to Indias energy
security. India not only needs to harness the economic potential of this region but also
leverage its soft power to strengthen its presence within the region. Some important
agreement:
o Sign FTAs with Mexico, Colombia and Peru: Make exports competitive to
take advantage of these growing markets, which also have similar agreements
with other countries where our exports face tariffs.
o Credit lines: Increase these by $200 million for projects, investments and join
ventures in Latin America, which currently has small credit lines compared to
those provided to Africa and Asia.
o Rejuvenate the India-Brazil partnership: As well as the IBSA alliance (India
Brazil South Africa) by inviting President Dimla Rousseff to India for a
bilateral trade visit following the IBSA summit, hosted by India in 2015.
Indias relations with Europe particularly with UK, France and Germany are healthy
and strong. It has established strategic partnerships with each of these countries.
However, even though it has good relations with individual European countries, its
bilateral relationship with EU is still in its infancy. The Make in India initiative of
the present government offers an opportunity to both to bolster their bilateral
relationship as also explore the scope for cooperation in areas of energy, trade,
security and counter-terrorism. With Germany, India sees prospects for better
economic engagement. India-UK relations are rooted in history. The large number of
 19

India students and professional along with Indian origin community settled in UK also
contribute to economic, political, cultural, tourism and people to people links with
UK. France is a country with which India enjoys friendship of special warmth and
complementary of perspective on global strategic issues. Indias engagement with
Europe and EU is important for India as a market for its goods and services as well as
source of financing and critical know-how.

As seen, the foreign policy and relations also depend on how strong is the economy of that
country. It also depends on degree of success rate if some country wants to invest in that
country. The Prime Minister has been travelling all over the world to hard sell his pet project
like Make in India. Foreign capital is required for all the flagship programmes like-Digital
India, Make in India, Skill India and perhaps even Swachh Bharat. The policy of investment
in India is proving nothing but an incendiary and volatile distinction. Taxation policy,
defective regulatory and policy impediments have only acted as serious deterrents. Moreover,
there is multiplicity of permissions, retrospective taxation, lack of bankruptcy law, absence of
an exit policy, over promise on the legislative front with no delivery mechanism. It is
therefore, much will depend on how fast Modi is able to cut red tape at home and clear
domestic cobwebs that snag investors.

The complexity of foreign policy challenges before India spans the entire spectrum of the
challenges. In the coming decade, Indias foreign policy would have to contend with
intensified engagement with not only the major powers but also emerging power centres as
well as its immediate and extended neighbourhood. This is both a challenge and an
opportunity for the Indian foreign policy. India will need to continuously build new
consensus in the 21st century globalised international relations to deal with ever changing and
complex challenges. In the ultimate, as India grows, it will have to become a major player in
establishment of peace, stability and prosperity in its neighbourhood, regionally and globally.
 20

Institutions of Foreign Policy Making

Foreign policy is formulated through a chain of factors where the process of decision making
at various levels plays an important role in Indian foreign policy formulation. In the words of
J. Bandyopadhyaya, The rationality or otherwise of a political party depends upon the nature
and extent of articulate public opinion and the manner of its expression, the institutions of the
political parties concerned with foreign policy, pressure groups, Parliament, the Foreign
Office, the Foreign Minister and finally the Cabinet. In this, we will look into the important
institutions that are instrumental in foreign policy formulations.

Parliament

The Parliament exercises considerable influence on the foreign policy of the country. On
several foreign policies related as listed in the Union list, the Parliament has exclusive power
to enact legislation. For instance these include, diplomatic, consular and trade representation,
war and peace, the United Nations, citizenship, naturalisation etc. The Parliament also has the
power to approve treaties. But it is the Union Government, which determines the basic
contents of treaties and seeks final approval of the Parliament. The debates in parliament on
foreign policy and the budget of Ministry of External Affairs are a testament to the diverging
views of opinion on foreign policy. Both the opposition and the ruling party have heated
discussion on these issues.

The war with China in 1962 illustrates well the role of the Parliament in determining Indias
foreign policy. In 1950, the debates and criticism of Indo-Chinese relations in Parliament had
begun on Chinas decision to liberate Tibet, much against Tibets wishes. The parties critical
of Indias relation with China included the Hindu Nationalist Party, the Jan Singh and
socialists. According to one of Nehrus biographers, Dr. Gopal, this harsh criticism led Nehru
to adopt a more stringent and aggressive policy against China. This included deputing the
army along the border, which triggered the first few skirmishes against China and finally
resulted in the full blown war.

Another channel through which the Parliament

Current Secretaries
influences Indias foreign policy is via the foreign
o Foreign Secretary Director-
ministry. The permanent advisory committee of Dr. S. Jaishanker and Dr.
the ministry includes the members of parliament Shilpak N. Ambule
of different parties, Indian diplomats, senior army o Secretary (West)- Ms. Sujata
Mehta
officials and specialists on India foreign policy.
o Secretary Economic
Collectively, they provide a refreshing perspective Relations- Amar Sinha
on Indias foreign policy. o Secretary (East)- Preeti Saran

Ministry of External Affairs

The Ministry of External affairs plays important

role in the formulation and implementation of foreign policy as it provides vital
infrastructural base to the External Affairs Minister and the Prime Minister with regard to
understanding of world politics and carrying analysis of potentials for India in the existing or
 21

apparent situations. The Ministry not only provides all the details and information, but also
makes necessary recommendations on the basis of the analysis of the available data.

The Ministry is headed by the External Affairs Minister as political representative and
Foreign Secretary as chief of the staff. He/she is assisted by number of Joint Secretaries,
Additional Secretaries, Deputy Secretaries, attaches etc. During the time of Nehru, there was
also a post of Secretary-General, who was a senior officer. He headed the foreign office and
was responsible for supervision and coordination of the activities of the Ministry and
rendered advice to the Prime Minister on policy details. In fact, the Secretary-General was
officially described as the Principal official advisor to the Minister on the matters relating to
foreign policy.

In addition to normal hierarchical structure, several other institutions also exist in the
Ministry of External Affairs that exercise considerable influence in foreign policy making.
They are; Historical Division, Policy Planning and Review Division, Policy Advisory
Committee which is successor of Policy Planning Committee etc. In Rajiv Gandhis
premiership, members of I.F.S. began to play more active role in foreign policy formulation,
with due encouragement from the Prime
Minister. The national Democratic Alliance
government of Atal Bihari Vajpeyee created the About PMO
post of National Security Advisor, who provides o The PMO came into existence
vital inputs to External Affairs Ministry. in 1949 by replacing the
Secretary to the Governor-
However, NSAs role is not limited to this lone General (Personal). Till June
ministry, but is overlapping with other 1977, it was called as the
ministries, particularly the Defence and Home Prime Ministers Secretariat
(PMS)
Ministry.
o The PMO is headed
politically by the Prime
Prime Ministers Office (PMO) Minister and administratively
by the Principal Secretary.
During his short term, Shastri left a deep impact o At present, Nripendra Mishra
on the course of Indias foreign policy. He is the Principal Secretary.
established the PMO. When Indira Gandhi came o The Prime Minister's
to power, the PMO overtook the foreign National Relief Fund
(PMNRF) and the National
ministry in capacity, intent and credibility. She Defence Fund (NDF) are
held MEA with her for a while (1967-1970) but operated directly from the
later she appointed separate ministers for PMO.
external affairs. Her power was at pinnacle
during the Bangladesh war in 1971 with
Pakistan. She had in her office trusted aides like
P. N. Haksar and D. P. Dhar. It was she who conducted talks on the Bangladesh crisis with
foreign powers, decided the details of War, and also held delicate negotiations in Simla after
the war ended in the defeat of Pakistan and signed the Simla Agreement in 1972.

In the present NDA government, PMO is gradually becoming powerful in the policy-
making. Normally PMs National Security Adviser does not get involved in the public
 22

presentation of Indias foreign policy. That is the task of the PM or the Minister of External
Affairs or the Foreign Secretary. But for the first time, Prime Ministers Principal Secretary
Brajesh Mishra, not only discussed a wide range of
foreign policy issues but also made public policy National Security Council
pronouncements on several occasions. o It was established on 19
November 1998. Prior to the
National Security Advisers and National formation of NSC, activities
Security Council concerning advising the PMO
on matters of national
security and strategic interest
Atal Bihari Vajpayee, as the Prime Minister of
were overseen by the
India took the unprecedented step of appointing Principal Secretary to the
Brajesh Mishra as the first National Security Prime Minister.
Adviser. His appointment raised a furore along o It is a three tiered structure
comprises the Strategic
with several pertinent questions like would he be
Policy Group, the National
above the foreign minister or below the foreign Security Advisory Board and
secretary, and what would his relations be with a Secretariat represented by
other officials at the prime ministers office. But the Joint Intelligence
Committee (JIC)
despite the debate on the place of hierarchy,
o After replacing the Planning
Brajesh Mishra proved to be an excellent adviser Commission with its new
and Vajpayee on more than one occasion avatar NITI Aayog, Prime
benefitted from his perspective. After this, it was Minister Narendra Modi and
National Security Advisor A
thought that this position ought to be the made
K Doval are working on an
official and be recognised by the constitution. The ambitious proposal to
National Security Council and the post of the restructure the National
National Security Adviser were constituted. This Security Advisory Board
(NSAB), which currently
comprises of distinguished diplomats, senior functions as a research body
officials, journalists and specialists on foreign on national security issues
affairs. The government has also established under the National Security
separate secretariat for this purpose. However, till Council Secretariat.
today, the debate continues about which position
the national security adviser or the foreign
secretary is more influential in determining the
Indian foreign policy.

Media

India is a democracy and the constitution assures each citizen the right and freedom to
express him or herself. The media as a forum, as well as, an independent body plays an
important role in India. Often called the fourth pillar, the media is involved in public
debates and is free and fierce.

In sum, for a long time, Indias foreign policy was a prerogative area for political elites,
particularly of the ruling party leadership. In recent time, pressure groups have begun to exert
influence on foreign policy agenda, especially on trade and business issues. The public
opinion in India is very volatile on issues of national security, particularly since the 1962
 23

India-China War. On the other hand, role of Parliament is neither clearly defined in the
Constitution or Statue Books nor has it evolved substantially. As a result, foreign policy
agenda figures in Parliament only when there is outcry of public opinion, thus Parliament acts
as a mirror image of peoples opinion. Even though, Cabinet is increasingly getting involved
in external affairs issues, the Foreign Ministry needs to evolve proper channels with regular
interactions to bring in more cohesion in Indias External Policy.