New Delhi:
A recent editorial response has countered Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s criticism of India’s foreign policy, asserting that the country’s global influence has never been stronger under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Gandhi, in her recent op-ed, suggested that India’s international voice had diminished in recent years. However, analysts and government supporters argue that India’s assertive diplomacy and multi-alignment strategy have elevated the country’s status on the world stage, making it an active player rather than a passive observer.
From Non-Alignment to Multi-Alignment
Critics of the earlier non-aligned approach say it often led to diplomatic inertia. In contrast, the Modi government’s multi-alignment policy has enabled India to engage with all major powers while maintaining strategic autonomy.
India’s participation in the Quad grouping alongside the United States, Japan, and Australia, as well as continued cooperation with Russia and countries of the Global South, are seen as key examples of this balancing act.
G20 Presidency: India as a Global Agenda Setter
During India’s G20 presidency in 2023, the country achieved a rare diplomatic success by securing unanimous adoption of the Delhi Declaration, despite major global divisions over the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
Notably, India’s leadership also facilitated the African Union’s inclusion as a permanent G20 member, a move widely hailed as a step toward a more representative global order.
Pragmatic Approach in West Asia
Observers note that India’s balanced policy in West Asia has combined humanitarian sensitivity with strategic realism.
Prime Minister Modi condemned the October 7 Hamas attacks while simultaneously advocating for humanitarian aid to Palestinians. India has sustained strong ties with Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE — a rare achievement for any major power navigating the region’s complexities.
Championing the Global South
India has positioned itself as the voice of developing nations, hosting the Voice of Global South Summit to highlight issues of climate justice, equitable technology access, and post-pandemic recovery.
Analysts say this marks a shift from India’s historically elite-centric diplomacy to a more inclusive and assertive global role.
Firm Stance on Terrorism
India’s foreign policy has taken a harder line on terrorism, naming and isolating state sponsors of terror at international forums.
The surgical and Balakot strikes, and the firm global defense of the abrogation of Article 370, are cited as examples of a new clarity in India’s messaging.
Diaspora and Soft Power Diplomacy
From Madison Square Garden to Sydney and Abu Dhabi, Modi’s outreach to the Indian diaspora has redefined it as a tool of soft power. With Indian-origin leaders now holding prominent positions in countries such as the UK, Ireland, and the US, India’s international goodwill has deepened further.
A Shift in Global Perception
Analysts argue that India has transitioned from being reactive to proactive in global affairs. Under Modi’s leadership, India is increasingly seen as a decisive and indispensable player, rather than an observer of international developments.
“India’s voice is louder today because India itself is stronger,” one observer noted. “The shift is from symbolism to substance.”
