Historical Engagements and Global Contributions
Played key roles in regional conflicts: helping end the Bangladesh genocide in 1971, thwarting a coup in the Maldives in 1988, and supporting Sri Lanka in defeating LTTE in 2009.
Contributed to global public goods: Vaccine Maitri during COVID-19, International Solar Alliance, digital infrastructure sharing, disaster response.
Demonstrated leadership in both regional and global peace efforts.
Reticence in Recent Decades
Since the 2000s, India’s focus shifted to economic growth, making India the fifth-largest economy.
India avoids entangling in conflicts that could strain relations with key partners or destabilize regional dynamics.
The move from non-alignment to multi-alignment reflects India’s strategy to balance its global ambitions with regional interests, focusing on partnerships without deep involvement in conflicts.
Rising Global Expectations and Strategic Shifts
India’s aspirations for a UNSC permanent seat increase global expectations for political engagement.
PM Modi’s balanced stance during the Ukraine war, abstaining from UNSC votes, influenced developing nations to adopt a more neutral position.
If India remains passive, it risks losing influence to countries like Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, which are actively mediating conflicts
Reforming and Expanding Influence
Strengthen engagement in regional groupings like the SCO and improve ties with East Asian nations, especially after India's Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) exit.
India should avoid waiting for invitations to mediate; instead, it should actively seek roles in peacebuilding, leveraging its credibility with diverse nations.
Boosting competitiveness through economic reforms will help India secure stronger trade agreements
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