Answer:

The Russia-Ukraine conflict, beginning in 2022, has been a significant geopolitical event with wide-ranging implications. India’s response, marked by a focus on strategic autonomy and non-alignment, reflects its independent foreign policy approach amid global power struggles. This stance underscores India’s intent to maintain its sovereignty in international relations while balancing its diverse strategic interests.

Principles of Strategic Autonomy in India’s Stance and Actions:

• Balanced Diplomatic Engagement: India maintained diplomatic ties with both Russia and Ukraine, emphasising dialogue and peace.
  For example: India’s abstention from UN votes condemning Russia, while engaging with Ukraine through diplomatic channels, highlights its balanced approach.
• Energy Security Considerations: Despite global sanctions on Russia, India continued to import Russian oil to ensure energy security.
  For example: India’s increased oil imports from Russia, growing by 20% in the first quarter of 2024, illustrate its pragmatic approach to energy needs.
• Economic Relations: Strengthening economic ties with Russia, especially in the energy sector, showcases India’s strategic economic planning.
  For example: The joint venture in Russia’s Far East for energy supplies and commodities trade aligns with India’s geo-economic interests.
• Independent Foreign Policy: India’s decision-making reflects its commitment to an independent foreign policy, free from external pressures.
  For example: PM Modi’s visit to Russia, despite Western criticism, underscores India’s strategic autonomy in international relations.
• Strategic Diversification: India’s efforts to diversify its defence and economic partnerships while maintaining robust ties with Russia demonstrate its strategic diversification.
  For example: Continued military cooperation and investments in Russian oil fields despite exploring new defence ties with Western nations.
• Geopolitical Signalling: By engaging with Russia, India signals its ability to manoeuvre diplomatically among global powers.
  For example: Modi’s visit to Moscow while skipping the SCO Summit in Kazakhstan indicates India’s calculated geopolitical strategy.

Principles of Non-Alignment in India’s Stance and Actions:

• Neutral Stance in Conflict: India’s consistent abstention from UN votes condemning Russia reflects its non-aligned stance, avoiding taking sides in the conflict.
  For example: Abstaining from votes criticising Russia while advocating for dialogue and peace aligns with non-alignment principles.
• Humanitarian Aid: Providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine without military involvement emphasises India’s commitment to non-alignment.
  For example: India’s provision of medical and humanitarian aid to Ukraine highlights its support for non-military assistance.
• Economic Neutrality: Continued economic engagement with both Russia and Western nations shows India’s non-aligned economic policy.
  For example: Trade relations with Russia for energy and defence, alongside Western partnerships, exemplify economic non-alignment.
• Avoidance of Military Alliances: India’s refusal to join military alliances against Russia demonstrates its non-aligned military stance.
  For example: Not participating in NATO-led initiatives against Russia, maintaining military independence.
• Diplomatic Equilibrium: Balancing diplomatic interactions with conflicting parties without aligning fully with either side reflects non-alignment.
  For example: Meetings with leaders from both Russia and Ukraine illustrate India’s diplomatic equilibrium.

India’s stance and actions during the Russia-Ukraine conflict epitomise its principles of strategic autonomy and non-alignment. By maintaining balanced diplomatic engagements, securing economic interests, and upholding an independent foreign policy, India navigates the complex geopolitical landscape effectively. Contemporary developments, such as India’s increasing role in global energy markets and its strategic partnerships, continue to shape its nuanced approach to international relations.

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