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Introduction:

The perceived decline in the USA’s global leadership presents both challenges and opportunities for India’s foreign policy. The shifting global dynamics, characterized by a multipolar world order and the rise of China, necessitate a recalibration of India’s strategic priorities.

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Implications for India’s Foreign Policy

• Strategic Autonomy: India finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with its alignment between the West and its traditional non-alignment stance. The changing geopolitical landscape, especially with the rise of China and the repositioning of Russia, pushes India towards a more nuanced foreign policy that balances strategic autonomy with engagement in multilateral platforms like the Quad​​.
• Multipolar World Order: The decline in US global leadership coincides with India’s recognition of a multipolar world order. This scenario offers India an opportunity to assert its strategic autonomy while engaging with multiple global powers to safeguard its national interests amid stormy geopolitics​​.

Recalibrating India’s Strategic Priorities

• Indo-Pacific Strategy: The Indo-Pacific region has emerged as a crucial geopolitical space, prompting India to shift its focus towards maritime security and regional partnerships. The Quad, involving Australia, Japan, and the United States, recognizes India as a pivotal regional power. This alignment necessitates India to actively engage in the Indo-Pacific, balancing its role as a regional security provider with its global aspirations​​.
• Enhancing Partnerships: India must continue to strengthen its strategic partnerships, not just with traditional allies but also with countries in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. This includes deepening ties with ASEAN, engaging with African nations, and collaborating with Middle Eastern countries like the UAE to enhance maritime security and economic cooperation​​.
• Strategic Autonomy and Diverse Alignments: Despite the evolving global order, India’s strategy should focus on maintaining its strategic autonomy. This involves navigating the US-China rivalry by engaging in initiatives that promote regional stability and economic growth without being seen as part of any containment strategy against China​​.
• Investing in Defense and Maritime Security: Recognizing the strategic importance of the Indian Navy and maritime security, India needs to allocate sufficient resources towards enhancing its naval capabilities. This includes improving surveillance, information sharing, and interoperability with allies to ensure a secure and stable Indo-Pacific region​​.

Conclusion:

The decline of US global leadership requires India to recalibrate its foreign policy and strategic priorities. By pursuing a path of strategic autonomy, enhancing regional partnerships, and investing in defense capabilities, India can navigate the complexities of the current global order. This recalibration will enable India to maximize its geopolitical and economic interests, ensuring its position as a significant global player in a rapidly changing world.

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