In this post, notes of “Unit 5: India as an Emerging Power” from “DSC 18: India’s Foreign Policy: Challenges and Strategies” are given which is helpful for the students doing graduation this year.

1. Introduction

What Are Emerging Powers in Global Politics?

Emerging powers are countries that are growing economically, gaining influence in world affairs, and strengthening their military. These nations are transitioning from regional importance to a global role, competing with major powers like the U.S. and China.

Key features of emerging powers:

• Strong economic growth
• Increasing diplomatic and military influence
• Participation in global groups (UN, BRICS, G20)
• Advancements in technology and innovation

India’s Path: From a New Nation to a Global Player

After gaining independence in 1947, India faced challenges like a weak economy and poverty but has since made significant progress to become an emerging power.

Key developments:

1. Economic Reforms (1991): Opened up the economy, leading to rapid growth.
2. IT & Services Boom: Became a global leader in IT and outsourcing.
3. Diplomatic Expansion: Strengthened ties with major global powers (U.S., Russia, Japan, ASEAN).
4. Military Strengthening: Nuclear power since 1998 (Pokhran tests), advanced defense, and space achievements (ISRO).
5. Cultural Influence: Bollywood, yoga, and democratic values enhanced India’s global appeal.

Signs of India’s Growth

1. Economic Success: 5th largest economy, projected to be 3rd largest by 2030.
2. Military Power: Among the top five military forces, with nuclear weapons, advanced missiles, and a growing navy.
3. Diplomatic Role: Key player in BRICS, G20, QUAD, and SAARC.
4. Technological Progress: Space missions (Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan), AI, and digital revolution.
5. Young Workforce: A large, youthful population driving IT, innovation, and startups.

2. India in the Changing World

Historical Background

The Cold War and India’s Neutrality

During the Cold War (1947–1991), the world was divided between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. India, under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, chose a Non-Alignment Policy (NAM).

Key aspects of India’s foreign policy during this period:

• Maintained independence while cooperating with both sides.
• Supported decolonization and helped newly independent nations.
• Promoted peace through the United Nations (UN).
• Built strong ties with the Soviet Union for military and economic support while keeping good relations with the West.

Changes After the Cold War

The fall of the Soviet Union (1991) forced India to adjust to a U.S.-led global order and overcome economic challenges.

Key shifts in India’s approach:

• Economic Reforms (1991): Opened markets, increasing trade and foreign investment.
• Stronger U.S. Relations: Developed strategic and economic partnerships.
• Joining Global and Regional Groups: Became active in ASEAN, BRICS, and G20.
• Multipolar Strategy: Advocated for a world with multiple power centers to balance China.

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India’s Role in the 21st Century

Economic Growth and Influence

• One of the fastest-growing economies, projected to be 3rd largest by 2030.
• Key player in global supply chains, IT, pharmaceuticals, and emerging technologies.
• Enhancing energy security through partnerships with the Middle East and Africa.

Strategic Partnerships and Multipolarity

• Supports a multipolar world, avoiding dominance by any single country.
• Strengthening ties with U.S., Russia, Japan, and ASEAN while maintaining independence.
• Active in QUAD (U.S.-India-Japan-Australia) to counterbalance China in the Indo-Pacific.
• Expanding defense and economic relations with Europe, Africa, and Latin America.

India’s Role in Global Organizations

• G20: Advocates for developing nations, hosted the 2023 G20 Summit.
• United Nations (UN): Seeks a permanent seat in the UN Security Council (UNSC).
• World Trade Organization (WTO): Pushes for fair trade policies benefiting developing nations.
• BRICS & SCO: Strengthens ties with Russia, China, and other emerging economies to reduce Western influence.

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Challenges in the Changing World

Balancing Independence and Cooperation

• Maintaining an independent foreign policy while deepening ties with the U.S. and Russia.
• Managing tensions with China while continuing trade and dialogue.
• Aligning national priorities with global expectations on climate change, security, and trade.

Rivalries with Other Major Powers

• China: Border disputes (Doklam, Galwan), economic competition, and regional influence struggles.
• Pakistan: Ongoing conflicts over Kashmir, terrorism, and diplomatic tensions.
• Russia vs. U.S.: Balancing historic ties with Russia while strengthening defense and trade with the U.S..
• Western Regulations: Navigating EU and U.S. trade and technology policies while promoting self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

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India’s rise as a global power depends on its ability to balance economic growth, diplomatic strategy, and security challenges in a rapidly evolving world.

3. Soft Power Diplomacy

Soft power is when a country influences others through culture, values, and policies instead of military or economic pressure. India, with its rich culture, democratic beliefs, and technological advancements, has become a major soft power globally.

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Understanding Soft Power

Definition and Importance in International Relations

• Soft power, a term coined by Joseph Nye, means influencing others through attraction and persuasion rather than force.
• It helps countries form alliances, improve their global image, and create goodwill.

India’s Strengths in Soft Power

• Cultural Diversity: Many traditions, languages, religions, and festivals.
• Democracy & Pluralism: India’s democratic model is admired by many developing nations.
• Historical Influence: Ancient philosophy, spirituality, and traditions attract global interest.
• Economic & Technological Growth: India’s booming tech sector and startups boost its global influence.

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Cultural Diplomacy

Promotion of Indian Culture: Yoga, Food, Movies, and Heritage

• Yoga & Ayurveda: India’s promotion of yoga led to the UN declaring June 21 as International Yoga Day. Ayurveda is gaining global recognition for wellness.
• Indian Food: Dishes like curry, biryani, and samosas are loved worldwide.
• Bollywood & Cinema: Indian movies, music, and dance have a massive audience in South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Global Impact of Indian Media and Entertainment

• Indian films are influencing Hollywood, Netflix, and global film festivals.
• Streaming platforms (Netflix, Amazon Prime) are increasing Indian content worldwide.
• Cricket Diplomacy: The IPL (Indian Premier League) attracts international players and fans, strengthening India’s global presence.

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Educational and Technological Diplomacy

Academic Exchanges and International Student Programs

• India hosts thousands of international students from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
• Scholarship programs like ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) promote education and goodwill.
• IITs & IIMs’ Global Reputation: These institutions attract international students and partnerships.

Technology as a Tool for Influence: Digital India and IT Leadership

• IT & Software Leadership: India is a global leader in IT with companies like TCS, Infosys, and Wipro.
• Startups & AI Growth: Strong presence in fintech, edtech, and AI sectors.
• Digital Public Services: India’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is being adopted by Singapore, UAE, and other nations.

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Developmental Diplomacy

India’s Role in Humanitarian Aid and Development Partnerships

• Neighbourhood First Policy: Supports Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka with infrastructure and trade.
• Africa Outreach: Investments in healthcare, education, and infrastructure across Africa.
• South-South Cooperation: Engages in financial aid, trade partnerships, and skill development programs.

Contributions to Global Health Initiatives (e.g., Vaccine Diplomacy)

• COVID-19 Vaccine Diplomacy: India provided vaccines to 100+ countries through Vaccine Maitri.
• Affordable Medicines & Generic Drugs: India is the “Pharmacy of the World”, supplying low-cost medicines.
• WHO Collaborations: Supports global health initiatives, including polio eradication and pandemic response.

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Challenges to Soft Power Diplomacy

Addressing Negative Views and Global Criticism

• Internal Issues: Concerns about religious tensions, press freedom, and human rights impact India’s global image.
• Diplomatic Tensions: Political disputes with neighbors can weaken India’s soft power efforts.

Improving Soft Power Strategies

• Government Actions: Strengthening institutions like ICCR, promoting cultural exchanges, and engaging with the Indian diaspora.
• Using Technology & Media: Leveraging social media, documentaries, and digital platforms to enhance India’s image.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging businesses, tourism, and entertainment to promote India’s global presence.

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India’s soft power diplomacy plays a vital role in shaping its global influence. By leveraging culture, technology, and humanitarian efforts, India is solidifying its position as an emerging global power.

4. India’s Growth Compared to Other Countries

India is emerging as a major global power, often compared to China and Brazil, which are also growing economically and politically. However, India stands out due to its democratic governance, independent decision-making, and strong use of soft power in diplomacy.

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Differences from Other Growing Countries

Factor	India	China	Brazil
Political System	Democracy with many parties	One-party rule (Communist Party)	Presidential democracy
Economic Model	Mixed economy (strong in IT & services)	Government-led (manufacturing focus)	Resource-based economy (commodities, agriculture)
Global Influence	Soft power & diplomacy	Military & economic dominance	Strong in Latin America, weaker globally
Military Strength	4th largest military, nuclear power, growing navy	2nd largest military, advanced defense tech	Limited military, mostly regional influence
Technology & Innovation	IT hub, space tech (ISRO), strong startups	Leader in AI, 5G, and industrial tech	Growing tech sector, but not globally dominant
Trade & Economy	Strong services, rising manufacturing	Largest exporter, infrastructure focus	Dependent on commodity exports (soy, oil, minerals)
Diplomatic Strategy	Balanced approach (QUAD, BRICS, G20)	Assertive (Belt and Road Initiative, BRICS)	Regional focus in Latin America
Challenges	Infrastructure gaps, job creation, inequality	Aging population, U.S. tensions, authoritarian rule	Political instability, economic fluctuations, corruption

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India’s Special Path: Democracy and Strategy

1. Democracy as an Advantage

• Political stability, individual freedoms, and market-friendly policies attract global investors.
• Policy decisions continue based on legal frameworks, not just party rule (unlike China).
• Encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, making it a global startup hub.

2. Growth through Services and Digital Development

• India’s economy is service-driven (IT, finance, digital economy), unlike China’s manufacturing-led growth.
• Digital India initiative is increasing access to financial and government services.
• Cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad are competing with Silicon Valley in tech and startups.

3. Strategic Vision: Working with Global Powers

• India follows a balanced foreign policy, engaging with:
  • U.S. (Defense, trade, tech collaboration)
  • Russia (Energy, military cooperation)
  • Europe (Green energy, trade expansion)
  • Asia & Africa (Infrastructure, development aid)
• Unlike China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea, India prioritizes diplomacy.

4. Military Strength and Stability

• India has a strong military and is increasing domestic defense production (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
• Strengthening its navy in the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s influence.
• Actively engages in UN peacekeeping missions and defense partnerships with the U.S., France, and Israel.

5. Soft Power in Global Influence

• India promotes cultural diplomacy (Yoga, Bollywood, cuisine) instead of economic pressure like China.
• The Indian diaspora (33 million people worldwide) strengthens global ties.

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Conclusion

India’s rise is unique because it balances economic power, democratic stability, soft power, and independent decision-making. Unlike China’s aggressive approach or Brazil’s regional focus, India aims to be a responsible global leader that prioritizes development, diplomacy, and inclusive growth.

5. Future Outlook

India is at a crucial stage in becoming a global power. With fast economic growth, technological advancements, and strategic diplomacy, it has the potential to shape the future world order. However, to achieve this, India must leverage its strengths and address key challenges.

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Opportunities for India as a Global Leader

1. Economic Growth & Innovation
   • India is projected to be the third-largest economy by 2030, driven by manufacturing, digital services, and green energy.
   • Advancements in AI, fintech, space tech, and renewable energy will enhance its global role.
   • Strengthening trade partnerships with the EU, UK, and ASEAN through free trade agreements.
2. Geopolitical Strength
   • Expanding its leadership in G20, QUAD, BRICS, and the UN for a balanced global order.
   • Increasing presence in the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s regional dominance.
   • Strengthening defense strategies and military self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
3. Young Workforce & Talent
   • With the largest young population, India can become a global hub for innovation and technology.
   • Investing in education, healthcare, and research to maximize human potential.
4. Green Leadership & Climate Efforts
   • India’s Net Zero by 2070 goal positions it as a key player in global climate policy.
   • Leading sustainability projects like the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

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Strategies to Boost India’s Power Status

1. Economic Reforms & Infrastructure Development
   • Improving ease of doing business and boosting infrastructure to attract global investments.
   • Strengthening Make in India & Start-up India to enhance manufacturing and entrepreneurship.
2. Strengthening Foreign Relations
   • Deepening ties with the U.S., EU, ASEAN, while maintaining strategic relations with Russia and China.
   • Expanding defense collaborations and pushing for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
3. Advancing Technology & Innovation
   • Investing in semiconductors, AI, cybersecurity, and space exploration to lead in global technology.
   • Expanding digital diplomacy by exporting UPI, Aadhaar, and Digital India solutions.
4. Enhancing Cultural & Soft Power Influence
   • Strengthening India’s global cultural presence through Bollywood, yoga, cuisine, and diaspora ties.
   • Increasing educational exchange programs, scholarships, and skill development initiatives.

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Vision for India’s Role in the Future World

1. Champion of a Balanced Global Order
   • Advocating for fair global governance reforms for better representation of developing nations.
   • Expanding influence in Africa and Latin America through economic and diplomatic cooperation.
2. Contributor to Global Peace & Security
   • Supporting peaceful conflict resolutions and playing a key role in UN peacekeeping missions.
   • Strengthening anti-terrorism efforts and cybersecurity defenses.
3. Leader in Sustainable & Inclusive Growth
   • Promoting clean energy, smart cities, and climate resilience as a global green leader.
   • Leading sustainability projects like ISA, Climate Finance, and Green Hydrogen Mission.

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6. Conclusion

Summarizing India’s Growth as a Global Power

India’s transformation from a post-colonial nation to a rising global power is driven by:
Rapid economic growth and technological innovation.
Military modernization and strategic diplomacy.
Soft power influence through culture, education, and humanitarian aid.

Despite challenges like infrastructure gaps, global tensions, and social inequalities, India’s future remains strong and optimistic.

Reflection on India’s Soft Power Strengths & Challenges

• India’s cultural, diplomatic, and technological leadership will be key to its global rise.
• Addressing misinformation, global criticism, and geopolitical conflicts will require careful strategy.
• Strengthening public-private partnerships, digital diplomacy, and global cooperation will further boost India’s soft power.

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Final Thought:

India’s path to global leadership depends on a clear vision, innovation, and inclusive development. By effectively using its strengths and overcoming key challenges, India is set to become a leading force in democracy, development, and diplomacy in the 21st century.