Section Article

INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY IN THE 21ST CENTURY: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES
Author(s): Ravi Parshad

Abstract
India’s foreign policy in the 21st century reflects the complex transformation of the international system characterized by fluid geopolitical alignments rapid technological advancement expanding economic interdependence shifting power balances and rising multipolarity. As global challenges such as climate change terrorism regional conflicts cybersecurity threats energy insecurity and great-power competition intensify India has recalibrated its diplomatic strategies to protect national interests while promoting global stability. The 21st century witnessed India transitioning from a largely normative and non-aligned actor into a proactive global player capable of shaping international discourse contributing to multilateral governance strengthening regional partnerships and asserting strategic autonomy in a polarized world. India’s growing economic capacity technological expansion demographic strength and strategic geography enhance its global relevance offering opportunities to influence global governance expand maritime presence strengthen soft power and deepen bilateral and multilateral partnerships. At the same time India faces significant challenges including regional tensions border conflicts great-power rivalry competition in the Indo-Pacific strategic pressure from neighboring powers energy vulnerabilities and global expectations of responsibility. This study examines India’s evolving foreign policy strategies in the 21st century by analyzing diplomatic principles major relationships multilateral engagements regional ambitions and structural constraints. Drawing from research prior to 2018 and contextualizing developments around 2020 the paper provides a comprehensive understanding of India’s opportunities and challenges in navigating an increasingly complex global environment.