Modi's Foreign Policy: Quest To Make India A Vishwaguru

When India got its independence, the world was still reeling under the effects of World War II. Britain was losing its power and the United States of America was rising as a world power. India, at the time, was still dealing with the repercussions of partition, colonial rule and economic drain. 

But over the years, after wars, treaties and strong diplomatic developments, India today is known as a supportive allied nation and a stubborn enemy even though India was never in favour to be the first mover in any hostility. 

Every Prime Minister of India has proven themselves by carving the nation’s diplomatic stand in the best way. However, when Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014, his rivals predicted his failure in foreign policy due to his ‘Hindutva’ image after the Godhra incident but today India is being applauded at world forums for its rich foreign ties and plans. 

India And Its Neighbours 

After becoming the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi had a friendly relationship with the neighbouring countries whether it was Pakistan, Nepal and China. In 2019, Pakistan attacked an Indian military bus which aroused nationalistic sentiments and it eventually resulted in the Uri Surgical Strike. The strike carved a mighty figure of India and its aggressive foreign policy, Modi government hailed the ‘New India’, which does not tolerate attacks. Modi was appreciated for his determined vision and leadership. 

China is again a very important neighbour who is economically important for India. China is also India’s important trading partner. In 2020, Chinese and Indian troops had a bloody clash in which many soldiers died from both sides. After this, a number of Chinese apps and products were being asked in India to be banned. Banning Chinese products was directly impacting the the trade between the two countries. According to a reports, 43 per cent Indians did not buy Chinese products after the Galwan Valley clash.

On the other hand, when Sri Lanka faced a severe internal economic crisis, India provided an aid worth USD 3.9 billion. The financial assistance was appreciated by Sri Lanka. 

A Big Role Regional Cooperation Groups

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi is often criticised by the opposition for his frequent foreign visits, but the growing stature of India as the fastest-growing world economy is being seen to benefit the country in many ways. In the Russia-Ukraine crisis, India was considered as a mediator to solve the dispute between the countries. India has strengthened ties with the countries like the United States of America, the United Kingdom and Australia under Modi tooo. Every year, India is invited as a guest country in G7 meetings, which underscores India’s heightened role on the world stage. 

2023 is globally important for India, as it is helming the G20 presidency in September. The G20 presidency has provided an opportunity for the country to showcase its recent economic and infrastructural development. 

Body language has a crucial place in the world of diplomacy. After attending the G7 meeting in Japan, when PM Modi headed to Papua New Guinea, he was welcomed with warmth and love. In fact, the Papua New Guinea PM touched Modi’s feet. Naturally, the visual made headlines across the globe. 

Strong foreign policy doesn't just amplify a country’s voice, rather it acts as an usher and a gateway which brings an abundance of wealth and investment. The way India is excelling in every sector is an outcome of a balanced foreign policy. The foreign policy of 'New India' offers a helping hand to the neighbouring countries in time of unprecedented crisis while also presenting a strong stand against its enemies when needed.