What is Foreign policy ?
Foreign policy refers to the general guidelines that a country follows in establishing and conducting relations with other countries. It brings in predictability in foreign relations and builds trust between two nations
What is the need of a Foreign Policy ?
To pursue national interest
Factors influencing India’s Foreign Policy:
DOMESTIC FACTORS
1)Geographic location:
- India is located between Middle-east, South-East Asia and far East.
- It is present close to one of the busiest trade routes in the world.
- It shares most of its land boundaries with hostile neighbours.
- The increasing presence of China in the Indian Ocean is a source of major concern.
2)Population
- India has a huge population who need to be provided with basic amenities and employment opportunities.
- India also ensure the well being of its Non Resident Indians abroad.
3)Economic Concerns
- India is in dire need of foreign investments. Over the years it has liberalised its economy to incentivise foreign investments.
4)Political
- India aims to become a major global player in the future.
- It has been trying to join the UNSC as a permanent member.
5)Security and Defence
- Terrorism from hostile neighbours has been a major concern.
- Home grown terrorists use neighbouring countries as a hide out.
- India has signed land boundary agreements to strengthen border defence .
6)Ideology
- Since ancient times India’s Foreign Policy has been guided by values like peace and non violence.
- This was the basis for India’s Non Aligned Movement.
7)Media
8)Nature of Leadership
9)Parliament
INTERNATIONAL FACTORS
1)International scenario
- Cold war period
- 9/11 insatance in US
2)International Institutions
- World Trade Organisation , IMF, World Bank etc
3)Interantional Issues
- Terrorism – Syria issues , Afganistan issues etc
- Human Righta violations
4)Globalisation