Test: Foreign Policy - UPSC MCQ

The transformation of the international order is attributed to factors such as USA's unilateralism, the rise of China and India, and climate change. The establishment of the European Union is not mentioned as a contributing factor.
 

The establishment of the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) marked the first phase of Indian foreign policy, which focused on resisting the dilution of its sovereignty, rebuilding its economy, and consolidating its integrity.

India conducted the Peaceful nuclear explosion test in 1974 (Pokhran I) during the third phase of Indian foreign policy, which was focused on greater Indian regional assertion.

In the fifth phase of Indian foreign policy, India gradually acquired the attributes of a balancing power against the rise of China. This is reflected in the India-US nuclear deal (123 Agreement).

Isolationism is not a lesson that can be learned from the historical study of Indian foreign policy. Instead, India needs to have greater realism in policy, a strong economy, and multi-alignment to maximize options and expand space.

India's assertive participation in events of geopolitical significance includes responding to human rights situations, providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and shaping global conversations on various issues.

The Tashkent agreement in 1965 saw India and Pakistan agree to withdraw all armed forces to pre-war positions, restore diplomatic relations, and discuss economic, refugee, and other questions.

The creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff shows a step towards greater realism in policy, recognizing that soft power diplomacy is not sufficient for protecting the country.

India's approach towards the Indian Ocean Region and the extended neighborhood is reflected through the SAGAR initiative, Act East policy, and Think West policy.

In the current phase of geopolitical transformation, India needs to follow an approach of working with multiple partners on different agendas, making Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas relevant in foreign policy.