By Shubham Agrawal
India and Geopolitics- Vasudeva Kutumbakam
India, the world’s largest democracy is home to a 140crore population- its citizens. Not only this all the Indians living abroad around the globe are a part and parcel of this motherland. It is said that Indians can leave India, but India will always remain their soul. India being a rapidly growing economy, plays a crucial role in geopolitics.
Strategic Importance of India.
India's strategy is so important that its geographical positioning and economic growth are valuable that it creates a positive or negative impact on its neighboring countries depending on its relations and economic participation with them. Positioned between the Middle East and South East Asia, India plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of its economic corridors and regional alliance with its partners.
Regional Standing- India’s Neighbours
India is placed in a very abundant landscape from a geographical point of view, but its geopolitical positioning is derived from its relations with the neighboring countries, be it Nepal, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and a few more are based on historical events and escalations, economic interests, and its interdependency.
Global Standing- Its Alliance and Partnerships
India’s geopolitical strategy involves its relations with global partners like the U.S.A., the European Union, and others. India’s foreign policy involves the need and interest for the growth and development of its domestic economy. It also paves the way to strengthen its security compliances with its alliances.
India’s Participation in Regional Councils
The participation of India in Regional conferences and meetings is vital for its stronghold on other participants from the same region. Councils such as SAARC, and ASEAN play a major role in positioning India at the Regional Forum. The matters placed and discussed at the meeting like the scope of improvement, security concerns, economic trade, and unison among them are the focal points for the formation of such an association.
India’s Role in World Forum
In these challenging times when the world is facing various turbulences, firstly in the form of COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine War, and other conflicts and issues Indi is seen as an indicator of leading the world through these tough times. India’s position as a world leader will directly influence its strategies and policy-making capability for its domestic and international needs. The confident take of India, whenever questioned related to its take on such issues and interests, is commendable in the state of its international longevity.
G-20 Presidency, a turning point
The world of 2023 is drastically different than that in 2008, in United States. There have been changes all around and the world is evolving at a faster pace like never before. The G-20 summit chaired by India at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi in September 2023 with the theme of One Family, One Earth, One Future is lauded by all the nations whether participating in it or not. The matters related to Global Security, Climate Change, Multilateralism, Terrorism, the induction of the African Union, and other matters that were discussed and agreed upon with uniformity have placed India at the highest authority.
Challenges and Opportunities
India has many opportunities for building a strong foundation and having an influence. India’s active participation in global events such as WTO, QUAD, United Nations, and others allows it to shape international norms and policies.
India faces many challenges in its journey. Internal challenges such as political instability, economic inequality rising population, and others have hindered its ability to authorize its power and influence on a global stage. Regional tensions with China and Pakistan particularly, pose a significant security threat for its citizens and are directly affecting its internal peace and stability day by day.
Conclusion
With the tagline of “Vasudeva Kutumbakam”, India has a significant role to play in aligning internal matters with geopolitical interests. At present India is seen as a global leader in these tough times. As one of the fastest developing economies, India has shown the world how to manage issues and make it an opportunity to lead the world. With its largest democracy and oldest traditions, India is showing the mirror and paving the way to a better future not only for itself but for the world altogether. All these situations have garnered the world’s attention and they are eagerly watching our viewpoint and the policies and procedures we implement to strategically transform the world into a better place for living.
By Shubham Agrawal
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