Why in news?
In early September 2025 scholars and policymakers revisited India’s approach to foreign policy. As great‑power rivalry intensifies and alliances shift, many argue that India must reinforce its ability to make independent choices. Strategic autonomy is about preserving freedom of action rather than aligning permanently with any bloc.
Historical background
India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy stems from its colonial experience and its aspiration to safeguard sovereignty. After gaining independence in 1947, the leadership adopted Non‑Alignment during the Cold War. Rather than joining the U.S.‑led or Soviet‑led camps, India sought to build partnerships with multiple countries. Over the decades this evolved into a policy of multi‑alignment, where India cultivates relations with competing powers to advance its national interest while avoiding over‑dependence on any one nation. The Constitution emphasises sovereignty, and past leaders from Jawaharlal Nehru to Indira Gandhi repeatedly asserted an independent foreign policy.
Key drivers
- Geopolitical realities: India sits at the intersection of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its security concerns include a hostile neighbour in Pakistan, a complex relationship with China and the need to keep sea lanes open for trade.
- Economic needs: Rapid growth requires access to capital, technology and markets from different partners. Diversifying economic ties reduces vulnerability to sanctions or supply‑chain disruptions.
- Civilisational identity: India sees itself as a civilisational state with its own worldview. Autonomy allows it to take positions based on national values and interests, whether on climate change, WTO reforms or vaccine diplomacy.
- Changing global order: The unipolar moment following the end of the Cold War has given way to multipolarity. New powers like China, the European Union and regional groupings now shape rules. A balanced policy helps India navigate this complexity.
Opportunities and challenges
- Opportunities: Strategic autonomy allows India to act as a bridge between rival blocs, champion the voice of the Global South and leverage its soft power in areas like yoga, Ayurveda and technology diplomacy. It also pushes domestic defence production and reduces dependency on arms imports.
- Challenges: India remains economically vulnerable, with dependence on energy imports and trade. Assertive policies by China, pressure to align closely with the U.S. on Indo‑Pacific security, and institutional capacity constraints in areas like cyber and space pose hurdles. Maintaining neutrality while deterring aggression requires careful balancing.
Way forward
- Strengthen the economy: Boost manufacturing, invest in infrastructure and diversify energy sources to minimise external vulnerability.
- Balanced engagement: Deepen partnerships with major powers but maintain independent positions on issues such as trade rules, digital governance and human rights.
- Defence indigenisation: Promote self‑reliance through Make‑in‑India programmes and strategic partnerships. A strong domestic industrial base supports autonomy.
- Champion the Global South: Speak for developing countries on climate finance, equitable vaccine distribution and United Nations reforms. This builds goodwill and reduces pressure to join rival coalitions.