Question map
Consider the following statements about the post-cold war directional changes in Indian foreign policy : 1. By the mid 1990s, Indian foreign policy submitted itself to a process of adaptive learning to boost its status and influence in the global pecking order. 2. Indian foreign policy has shifted from an overemphasis on idealism during the cold war era to pragmatic realism in the post-cold war era. 3. Indian foreign policy is geared to establish tangible economic and security partnership with major regions and countries of the world. Which of the statements given above is/arc correct ?
Explanation
Post-Cold War Indian foreign policy underwent a significant transformation characterized by adaptive learning and strategic pragmatism. Following the Soviet Union's disintegration in 1991, India was forced to rethink its foreign policy, moving away from the ideological constraints of the Cold War era [2]. This shift involved a transition from an overemphasis on idealism and non-alignment to a more realistic approach dictated by national interest and economic imperatives [4]. By the mid-1990s, India sought to boost its global status through initiatives like the 'Look East Policy,' which aimed to establish tangible economic and security partnerships with major regions like ASEAN [2]. Modern Indian diplomacy is now geared toward strengthening ties with diverse global actors, including the US, China, the EU, and Japan, focusing on commercial interests and strategic cooperation to navigate the contemporary international order [3].
Sources
- [2] Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Policy > p. 745
- [1] Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > Shifting alliances in world politics > p. 69
- [4] Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > Distance from two camps > p. 57
- [3] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 16: India–Political Aspects > INDIA'S ROLE IN WORLD AFFAIRS > p. 58