●  The article discusses the paradoxical nature of India’s foreign policy, where its global rise contrasts with a decline in regional influence, primarily due to China’s ascendance in South Asia.

●  Despite India’s growing power and participation in global forums, its ability to assert dominance in its immediate neighbourhood has weakened.

● The article proposes strategic shifts and leveraging of soft power to navigate this complex geopolitical landscape effectively.

G-20:

●  The Group of Twenty (G-20) is an international forum for the governments and central bank governors from 19 countries and the European Union.

●  Established in 1999 in response to the financial crises of the late 1990s, it aims to discuss policy issues pertaining to the promotion of international financial stability.

● Member countries represent major economies, including the United States, China, India, Japan, Germany, and others.

●  G-20 summits are held annually, providing a platform for leaders to address global economic challenges and coordinate policy responses.

●  Topics discussed include trade, development, climate change, and sustainable development goals.

●  The G-20 accounts for around 80% of global GDP and two-thirds of the world’s population, making it a significant forum for global economic governance.

QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue):

●  The QUAD is an informal strategic forum comprising the United States, Japan, India, and Australia.

●   Formed in 2007 and revived in 2017, it aims to promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.

●  Member countries share common values and concerns regarding maritime security, regional stability, and the rise of China.

●  The QUAD conducts consultations and joint exercises to enhance cooperation on security and defence issues.

●  It seeks to uphold international rules-based order and address common challenges such as terrorism, piracy, and natural disasters.

●       The QUAD serves as a platform for diplomatic engagement and coordination among like-minded democracies in the Indo-Pacific region.

Soft Power of a Country:

●  Soft power refers to a nation’s ability to influence others through culture, values, and diplomatic initiatives rather than military or economic coercion.

●  It includes elements like cultural exports, diplomacy, education, and global leadership in various fields.

● Soft power enhances a country’s reputation, fosters international cooperation, and strengthens diplomatic ties.

●  It complements traditional power resources and promotes goodwill and positive perceptions abroad.

Soft Power of India:

● .Cultural Richness: Bollywood, Yoga, Ayurveda, and diverse cuisine.

●  Historical Legacy: Ancient civilization, philosophy, and spirituality.

● Diplomacy: Non-alignment, peacekeeping efforts, and global advocacy.

● Education: Growing importance of Indian universities and diaspora.

● Economic Growth: Emerging market status and entrepreneurial spirit.

● Technology: IT industry prowess and space exploration endeavours.

● Diversity: Unity in diversity, showcasing pluralism and tolerance.

Myanmar:

● India’s relationship with Myanmar is generally positive, focusing on security cooperation, counterinsurgency efforts, and economic ties.

●  However, India faces challenges related to the Rohingya refugee crisis, as Myanmar’s handling of the minority Rohingya population has drawn international criticism.

●  India balances its support for Myanmar’s democratic transition with concerns over human rights violations and instability in the region.

Maldives:

● India-Maldives relations have experienced fluctuations due to political turmoil and shifts in leadership.

●  The Maldives’ growing engagement with China has strained ties with India.

●  India intervened diplomatically to support democratic institutions and stabilise the political situation during times of crisis.

● The social media spat exposed deeper issues. The Maldives’ new president has called for a more independent foreign policy, including potentially reducing Indian military presence and increasing ties with China.

Sri Lanka:

●  India-Sri Lanka relations have been influenced by the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka, particularly regarding the Tamil minority.

●  India’s intervention in the Sri Lankan Civil War and subsequent peacekeeping efforts strained relations with the Sri Lankan government.

● China’s increasing influence in Sri Lanka, particularly through infrastructure projects like the Hambantota Port, poses challenges for India’s strategic interests in the region.

●  Efforts to improve ties include economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and addressing concerns related to regional security.

Afghanistan:

● India-Afghanistan relations are primarily focused on development assistance, infrastructure projects, and counterterrorism efforts.

●  The Taliban insurgency and Pakistan’s support for militant groups in Afghanistan pose security challenges for both India and Afghanistan.

● India’s role in Afghanistan’s reconstruction and efforts to build diplomatic ties has been met with opposition from Pakistan.

●  Despite these challenges, India remains committed to supporting Afghanistan’s stability and development.

Nepal:

●  India and Nepal have historical and cultural ties, but disputes over border territories strain relations.

● Nepal’s objection to India’s construction of the Lipulekh Pass road and the Kalapani region led to diplomatic tensions.

●  Nepal’s constitutional amendments also sparked concerns in India regarding the rights of the Madhesi community.

●  Efforts to address grievances and maintain goodwill are ongoing, but periodic strains persist.

Bangladesh:

● India-Bangladesh relations have significantly improved in recent years, marked by cooperation in trade, security, and connectivity.

●  Historic issues like the sharing of river waters, particularly the Teesta River, remain unresolved but are being addressed through dialogue.

●  Both countries collaborate closely on issues like counterterrorism and regional stability.

●  Bilateral ties are generally positive, with efforts to address outstanding issues through mutual understanding and cooperation.