SHIFTS IN INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY POST THE ONSET OF THE RUSSIA - UKRAINE CRICIS

Abstract

The Russia-Ukraine crisis caused geopolitical turmoil globally and affected the policy choices of many countries. This article aimed at clarifying the shifts in India’s foreign policy post the onset of the Russia-Ukraine crisis. To achieve this objective, the policy analysis methodology was used to describe India’s policies, decisions and actions in the field of diplomacy under the impact of the crisis. The comparative analysis methodology was used to clarify the evolution and changes in India’s foreign policy prior as well as post the crisis. The article began by giving an overview of India’s foreign policy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership before the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Secondly, it analyzed the Russia-Ukraine crisis as agent of changes in India’s foreign policy. Thirdly, the article analyzed impacts of India’s foreign policy shifts on its important partners including the US, Russia and China post the onset of the crisis. And finally, it gives an assessment of India’s foreign policy shifts and its impact on India’s national interests and international stance. The article argued that, post the onset of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, India’s strategic autonomy and flexibility could help it maintain an effective and balanced ties with major powers despite conflicts among them. At some point of time, India tended to lean towards the US and gradually distance it seft from Russia and China but at another point of time, India titled toward Russia to secure its national and global interests. These policy shifts created both opportunities and challenges for India. It also brought about changes in regional and global landscape.