India’s Enhanced Global Stature Under Modi’s Leadership

Enhanced Global Stature

Narendra Modi’s re-election for a rare third term as India’s Prime Minister continues to elevate the country’s position on the global stage. Modi’s administration has positioned India and its fast-growing economy as crucial players in addressing global issues such as climate change, development, and international security.

Shifting Political Landscape

Unlike his previous terms, Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) now relies on coalition partners to form a government, indicating a more complex domestic political environment. This shift may necessitate a greater focus on domestic affairs, potentially limiting the time and resources available for foreign policy initiatives.

Key International Relationships

• United States: India’s relationship with the United States is expected to remain strong. The US-India partnership, particularly in the areas of security and technology, is likely to deepen as both nations share concerns over regional stability and an assertive China. President Joe Biden has highlighted the growing potential of this partnership.
• Strategic Autonomy: Despite closer ties with the US, India continues to pursue strategic autonomy. This includes maintaining relationships with countries like Russia, despite Western pressures to sever such ties. Modi’s administration is likely to continue balancing these relationships to assert India’s independent foreign policy stance.

Regional Dynamics

China and Pakistan: Managing relations with nuclear-armed neighbors China and Pakistan remains a significant challenge. Modi’s previous terms saw heightened tensions, especially with Pakistan. The BJP’s Hindu nationalist agenda has often exacerbated regional frictions. The new coalition government might moderate its rhetoric, but the potential for increased posturing to satisfy domestic constituencies cannot be ruled out.

The "Neighbourhood First" policy continues to be a priority for India.

Domestic and International Concerns

• Civil Liberties and Human Rights: Modi’s administration faces criticism for alleged backsliding on civil liberties and the marginalization of India’s Muslim minority. These issues could strain relationships with Western democracies concerned about human rights.
• Extraterritorial Actions: Accusations of India’s involvement in international incidents, such as the alleged plot to target a Sikh activist in the US, raise concerns about the country’s commitment to international norms. These allegations, if not addressed, could impact India’s global image and relations.

Economic Implications

Despite the political challenges, India’s economic trajectory remains strong. Analysts suggest that Modi’s leadership, even without a supermajority, will continue to boost India’s global economic clout. The perceived resurgence of democracy in India following the recent elections may further enhance its image among liberal nations and boost its soft power.

Conclusion

Modi’s third term as Prime Minister signifies a critical phase for India’s global ambitions. While domestic political dynamics may require careful management, India’s strategic relationships and economic potential remain robust. The coming years will reveal how Modi navigates these complexities to enhance India’s stature on the world stage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the key international relationships for India under Modi?
Answer: Under Modi, India's key international relationships include a strong partnership with the United States focused on security and technology, while also pursuing strategic autonomy to maintain ties with countries like Russia despite external pressures.

Q2. How does Modi's administration address civil liberties concerns?
Answer: Modi's administration faces criticism regarding civil liberties, particularly concerning the rights of India's Muslim minority, which could impact India's relations with Western democracies that prioritize human rights.

Q3. What challenges does India face in managing its relations with China and Pakistan?
Answer: India faces significant challenges in managing relations with China and Pakistan, particularly regarding heightened tensions and regional frictions that have been exacerbated by Modi's Hindu nationalist agenda.

Q4. How might Modi's third term impact India's global economic position?
Answer: Analysts suggest that Modi's leadership will continue to enhance India's global economic position, even without a supermajority, benefiting from the perceived resurgence of democracy in the country.

Q5. What does the "Neighbourhood First" policy entail?
Answer: The "Neighbourhood First" policy emphasizes strengthening India's relationships with neighboring countries, aiming for stability and cooperation in the region while managing complex geopolitical dynamics.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is a key focus of India's foreign policy under Modi's leadership?
A) Securing trade agreements with Europe
B) Strengthening ties with the United States
C) Isolating Pakistan diplomatically
D) Focusing solely on domestic issues
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which country does India maintain ties with despite Western pressures?
A) China
B) Russia
C) Japan
D) Australia
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is a criticism faced by Modi's administration regarding civil liberties?
A) Support for women's rights
B) Marginalization of Muslim minorities
C) Increase in freedom of speech
D) Promotion of secularism
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What does the "Neighbourhood First" policy aim to achieve?
A) Focus on global trade
B) Strengthen relations with neighboring countries
C) Isolate China economically
D) Promote tourism only
Correct Answer: B