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Strategic Autonomy is the India Story

Updated: Aug 15

India attaining political independence on August 15, 1947, was more than the end of colonial rule—it marked the beginning of a new era of strategic autonomy that has shaped the nation's role in global affairs. Over the last 77 years, India has consistently demonstrated a boldness to chart its own course, emerge as a voice of the Global South, and maintain a nuanced balance amidst global power plays. This journey underscores the resilience and foresight of Indian intellectual, political and institutional leadership. It reflects the true democratic aspiration of a nation steeped in history and modernity.

Strategic autonomy is the the India story

The Historical Perspective


Indian global outlook was established in the early years of its independence through its role as a founder leader of the non-aligned movement (NAM) that finally unfolded in Belgrade  in 1961. This movement allowed India to maintain a position of neutrality during the Cold War, balancing its relations between two major power blocs. By leveraging non-alignment and promoting Asian unity, India effectively amplified the voices of the Third World while advancing its own interests. As global alliances evolved, India did deepen its relationship with the then Soviet Union, all the while preserving its independence voice.


Following the dissolution of the USSR and the end of the Cold War, India shifted its focus towards enhanced economic integration and a more robust strategic partnership, even with Western nations. Yet, it never lost sight of its core principle—strategic autonomy. This approach has been critical in allowing India to carefully manage its relationships with major powers, avoiding entanglement in any alliance systems. By doing so, India has ensured its ability to navigate the complex landscape of global power dynamics and to pursue its national interests on its own terms .


A Leader in the Global South


The autonomy established during the non-alignment era laid a strong foundation for India’s leadership role in the Global South. India’s ability to balance old alliances while forming new ones has allowed it to remain a crucial player on the world stage. This flexibility is particularly significant in the contemporary world, which is increasingly marked by geopolitical turbulence. From the tensions in South China Sea to post-electoral turmoil in many nations, from a burning West Asia to the proxy war in Ukraine, the global landscape is fraught with challenges that require a nuanced approach that India maintains effectively.


In this environment, India’s stance of balance is more vital than ever. A traditionally non-aligned India is now navigating these complexities by forming new alliances, along with maintaining the old ones, while also keeping an eye on simmering tensions. Strategic autonomy allows India to align its foreign policy and major decisions with its national interests, rather than being influenced by external powers. This autonomy is crucial as India continues to play a significant role in the Global South, exemplified by significant steps like enabling the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 and acting as a preferred security provider in the Indian Ocean Region.


Bharat @ 77

The Current Scenario


India’s strategic autonomy is not just a historical concept; it is a living principle that guides its current foreign policy. Today, India continues to uphold this principle amidst an increasingly complex global landscape. As a rising power, India has maintained its independence in foreign policy, engaging with multiple global powers while avoiding entanglements in their rivalries. This autonomy is evident in India’s approach to global issues such as climate change, cybersecurity, and trade, where its stance is shaped by national interests as well as the broader implications for the Global South .


In the face of potentially new global alignments, India’s strategic autonomy will be crucial in maintaining its ability to navigate the intricate landscape of international relations. As India enters its 78th year of independence, its commitment to strategic autonomy remains as strong as ever, ensuring that it can continue to pursue its national interests on its own terms.


As we celebrate nearly eight decades of independence, it is fitting to reflect on India's journey of strategic autonomy. From the days of non-alignment to its current role as a leader in the Global South, India has consistently demonstrated that independence is not just a political milestone, but a continuous process of asserting one’s place in the world. India’s strategic autonomy will continue to be the cornerstone of its foreign policy, guiding its path forward on the global stage.


Jai Bharat @77 - Vasudaiva Kutumbakam [Long Live India - The World is One Family]


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