How have the international relations of India evolved over time and what are its current objectives
Trace the history of India's foreign relations and discuss the present foreign policy goals of the nation.
- India gained independence from British rule in 1947 and adopted a non-alignment policy, avoiding alignment with any major power blocs during the Cold War.
- India was a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement in 1961, which was a collective of nations that did not align themselves with any major powers.
- After the 1991 economic liberalization, India adopted a more market-oriented outlook and began to engage more with the west, marking a departure from its non-alignment stance.
- In recent years, India's foreign policy has emphasized a 'neighbourhood first' approach, prioritizing relations with its regional neighbours, such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
- India is also pursuing closer relations with the United States, Japan, and Australia under the framework of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or 'Quad', and is increasing its presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
- India is active in multilateral organizations such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and the G20, where it advocates for issues such as global trade reforms, increased climate change action, and counter-terrorism efforts.
- The current foreign policy objectives of India include boosting economic ties with other countries, securing its strategic interests, maintaining regional stability, and promoting a multipolar world order.
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