The Re-making of Indian Foreign Policy

Abstract

The article examines the reasons for the absence of effective but informal networks in India that help make and remake a nation’s foreign policy, generate domestic political consensus and win international support. As a rising India reconstructs its foreign policy, a small proto-network that defines its core principles is beginning to emerge. A foreign policy vanguard, however, is no substitute to a more broadly based and deeply rooted structure of decision making. As the new foreign policy network evolves, the International Relations (IR) community can claim its legitimate role in shaping India’s new foreign policy. By shedding its old conformist trap, joining the vigorous public square at home and reconnecting with the world, India’s IR community can set a new foreign policy direction for the nation and offer course corrections when needed.