Section Article

DIPLOMACY AND POWER BALANCE: INDIA’S POSITION IN GLOBAL POLITICS
Author(s): Ravi Parshad

Abstract
India’s role in global politics has transformed significantly over the past several decades culminating in a multidimensional diplomatic identity that reflects both historical legacies and emerging geopolitical aspirations. As global power structures evolved around the year 2020—characterized by shifting alliances technological competition regional conflicts economic realignments and new patterns of global governance—India emerged as a vital strategic actor capable of influencing regional stability international cooperation and global power balance. India’s diplomatic engagements span diverse spheres including security partnerships economic diplomacy multilateral institutions global South alliances climate negotiations and technological collaborations. This transformation reflects a combination of historical non-alignment principles strategic autonomy and pragmatic diplomacy shaped by contemporary challenges. India’s position in global politics is influenced by its demographic strength growing economic capabilities technological innovations military modernization Indo-Pacific presence and expanding diplomatic networks. These factors position India as a stabilizing force and emerging power seeking a balanced global order. This research paper examines India’s evolving diplomatic strategies its role in regional and international power structures and the factors that shape its global influence. Drawing upon scholarly research available before 2018 and contextualizing the analysis with developments around 2020 the study explores India’s engagement with major powers participation in multilateral institutions leadership in global South forums and strategic responses to shifting geopolitical landscapes. It highlights how India manages competing interests maintains strategic autonomy and contributes to global governance while navigating complex international power dynamics.