India’s foreign policy is characterized by several major features that have evolved over time to reflect its changing priorities, global circumstances, and national interests. These features provide insights into India’s approach to international relations. Here are the major features of India’s foreign policy:

1. Non-Alignment: One of the most enduring features of India’s foreign policy is its commitment to non-alignment. During the Cold War, India adopted a non-aligned stance, refusing to align itself with either the United States or the Soviet Union. This policy aimed to preserve India’s sovereignty, maintain its independence in international affairs, and promote peace and cooperation among nations.
2. Strategic Autonomy: India values its strategic autonomy and resists becoming overly reliant on any single power. It seeks to maintain flexibility in its foreign relations and decision-making, allowing it to pursue its interests while avoiding undue external influence.
3. Multi-Alignment: While upholding its non-alignment principles, India has embraced the concept of “multi-alignment” in the contemporary international landscape. It actively engages with a diverse set of countries, including the United States, Russia, China, and the European Union, to advance its economic, security, and diplomatic interests.
4. Focus on Neighbors: India places a strong emphasis on its relationships with neighboring countries. The “neighborhood first” policy prioritizes regional cooperation and stability. India has both bilateral and multilateral initiatives to enhance ties with countries in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.
5. Economic Diplomacy: India’s foreign policy increasingly integrates economic diplomacy as a central feature. It seeks to promote economic growth and development by engaging in trade, investment, and economic cooperation with various countries and international organizations.
6. Act East Policy: Building on the “Look East” policy, India has expanded its engagement with Southeast Asia and East Asia under the “Act East” policy. This approach aims to strengthen economic and strategic ties with countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
7. Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy: India leverages its rich cultural heritage, including yoga, Bollywood, and Indian cuisine, to enhance its global influence. Cultural diplomacy and the promotion of its ancient civilization are important aspects of India’s foreign policy.
8. Security and Counterterrorism: India’s foreign policy focuses on countering terrorism and ensuring regional security. It has actively engaged in counterterrorism cooperation with various countries and supported international efforts to combat terrorism.
9. United Nations and Multilateralism: India places great importance on the United Nations and other multilateral organizations. It advocates for multilateral solutions to global challenges, including climate change, disarmament, and development.
10. Diaspora Engagement: India maintains strong links with its vast diaspora communities around the world. It considers the Indian diaspora a valuable asset for building economic, cultural, and political connections with other countries.
11. Nuclear Policy: India’s nuclear policy is characterized by a commitment to a minimum credible deterrent. It conducted nuclear tests in 1998, leading to the declaration of a no-first-use (NFU) nuclear doctrine, which means India will not use nuclear weapons first in a conflict.
12. Regional and Global Leadership: India aspires to be a regional and global leader. It seeks to play a prominent role in regional forums like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and in global forums such as the G20 and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa).
13. Climate and Environment: India emphasizes its commitment to sustainable development, climate change mitigation, and environmental protection. It actively participates in international climate agreements and seeks to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.

These major features of India’s foreign policy reflect the country’s complex and multifaceted approach to international relations. India’s foreign policy is characterized by a balance of pragmatism, principles, and adaptability as it navigates a rapidly changing global landscape while safeguarding its national interests and values.