India’s Foreign Policy

India’s Foreign Policy

Learning Objectives

After studying this lesson, students will be able to

• Identify the basic principles of India’s foreign policy

• Explain the meaning and significance of non-alignment

• Analyse the stages of our foreign policy

• Explain the importance of foreign policy

• Recognise the difference between domestic policy and foreign policy

Introduction

Foreign policy can be defined as a country’s policy that is conceived, designed and formulated to safeguard and promote her national interests in her external affairs, in the conduct of relationships with other countries, both bilaterally and multilaterally. It seeks to secure the best interests of the people, territory and economy of the country. It is a direct reflection of country’s traditional values and overall national policies, her aspirations and self-perception. Nations have also been interdependent. Interdependence has been an incontrovertible fact of international relations. The main tools of foreign policy are treaties and executive agreements, appointing ambassadors, foreign aid, international trade and armed forces.

The Ministry of External Affairs of India also known as Foreign Ministry comes under Government of India is responsible for the conduct of foreign relations of India. The foreign Service Training Institute, New Delhi established in 1986 provides training for officers of Indian Foreign Services(IFS).

The Constitution of India 1950 Article 51

Lays down Directive Principles of India’s foreign policy.

The state shall endeavour to

• Promote International peace and security

• Maintain just and honourable relations between nations

• Foster respect for international law and international organisation

• Encourage settlement of international disputes by arbitration