Question

What is Non-alignment? Is it relevant in deciding Indian foreign policy?

Hint:

Use the term "strategic autonomy" as a synonym for the modern interpretation of non-alignment. It's a more contemporary and precise term that accurately captures the essence of India's current foreign policy goals.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question has two parts: defining the policy of Non-alignment and evaluating its relevance for India's foreign policy today.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
What is Non-alignment?
Non-alignment was a foreign policy doctrine that emerged after World War II, during the Cold War. It was formally established through the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in 1961. Its key tenets are:
- Independence from Power Blocs: It was a policy pursued by newly independent nations, like India, to avoid joining either of the two major military and ideological blocs led by the United States (capitalist) and the Soviet Union (communist).
- Strategic Autonomy: It is crucial to understand that non-alignment was not neutrality or passivity. It was an active policy of retaining the freedom, or strategic autonomy, to judge each international issue on its own merits and to make foreign policy decisions based on national interest, rather than on the directives of a bloc leader.
- Advocacy for Peace: It advocated for global peace, disarmament, and a more equitable international economic and political order.
Is it relevant in deciding Indian foreign policy?
The relevance of Non-alignment today is a matter of debate, but a strong case can be made for its continued importance, albeit in an evolved form:
1. Core Principle Remains Valid: The Cold War is over, but the core principle of non-alignment—strategic autonomy—is more relevant than ever in today's multipolar world. Instead of two blocs, there are multiple centers of power (USA, China, Russia, EU, Japan). A policy of strategic autonomy allows India to engage with all of them without being locked into a binding alliance with any one.
2. Evolution into 'Multi-alignment': India's current foreign policy is often described as 'multi-alignment'. India is a member of groupings that include diverse and even rival powers. For example, India is part of the Quad (with US, Japan, Australia) which is seen as countering China, while also being a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS, which include China and Russia. This ability to maintain relationships with all sides is a direct application of the principle of strategic autonomy.
3. Independent Stance: India's independent stance on global issues, such as its position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict where it has avoided explicitly condemning Russia while calling for peace, is a modern-day example of pursuing a non-aligned path based on its own strategic interests (defense partnership with Russia, energy needs).
Step 3: Final Answer:
While the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) as an institution may have lost its Cold War-era significance, the foundational principle of non-alignment, which is strategic autonomy, not only remains relevant but has become the central pillar of India's foreign policy. It guides India's navigation of the complexities of a multipolar international system, allowing it to pursue its national interests with flexibility and independence.