Introduction
India's foreign policy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has seen dramatic shifts — from assertive diplomacy to strategic alignments with global powers. Yet, in recent years, critics and foreign policy experts have raised serious concerns about its direction and execution. From strained relations with neighbors to a loss of influence on the global stage, some are even calling it a foreign policy disaster.
This blog dives deep into the alleged failures, missed opportunities, and the complexities behind India's current diplomatic standing.
1. The Shift from Non-Aligned to Strategic Alignment
India traditionally followed a non-aligned foreign policy, staying equidistant from major global power blocs. Under Modi and Jaishankar, India moved closer to the U.S., QUAD (with Australia, Japan, and the U.S.), and even Israel — which signaled a more West-leaning approach.
⚠️ Criticism:
- This shift alienated traditional allies like Russia and Iran.
- Created an impression that India was abandoning its independent voice on global issues.
2. The Neighborhood First Policy — A Missed Opportunity
Modi launched the “Neighborhood First” policy with much enthusiasm. Yet, relations with almost every neighboring country have worsened:
- China: Ongoing military standoff since Galwan 2020. No clear resolution.
- Nepal: Diplomatic row over border claims; loss of public goodwill.
- Sri Lanka: Strategic ground lost to China despite emergency aid during their crisis.
- Maldives: New government openly "anti-India"; removal of Indian military presence.
- Pakistan: No formal dialogue for years; increased hostility.
⚠️ Criticism:
- Lack of consistent diplomacy.
- Failure to counter Chinese influence in South Asia.
- More focus on speeches than on-ground engagement.
3. Weak Stand on Global Issues
India’s stance on Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Palestine, and Myanmar’s military coup has often been labeled as vague, neutral, or opportunistic.
⚠️ Criticism:
- Viewed as diplomatic fence-sitting.
- Lost opportunity to emerge as a strong moral voice among developing nations.
4. Overemphasis on Image and Global Tours
PM Modi has made over 100 foreign visits in 10 years — making headlines and projecting a strong image of India. But many question the real outcomes of these visits.
⚠️ Criticism:
- More PR, less policy.
- Big announcements often lacked follow-up execution.
- Focus on optics while key regional issues remained unresolved.
5. Diplomatic Isolation in International Forums
- India was left out of the peace talks on Afghanistan post-U.S. withdrawal.
- Failed to secure a permanent seat at the UN Security Council, despite lobbying.
- Not part of RCEP, Asia’s largest trade bloc, while China, Japan, and ASEAN moved ahead.
⚠️ Criticism:
- Economic nationalism over global engagement.
- Missed strategic opportunities in trade and diplomacy.
6. Domestic Politics Affected Diplomacy
- Rising reports of religious intolerance and press freedom concerns in India have drawn criticism from Western governments and media.
- This has created discomfort even among traditional partners in the Middle East and Europe.
7. China's Strategic Edge Over India
- China has deeper economic and military influence in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
- Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) continues to expand, while India has no comparable counter-strategy.
Conclusion: Diplomacy in Decline or Transition?
Foreign policy is not about instant results; it’s about long-term positioning and global trust. While India has gained some leverage in multilateral forums and bolstered ties with the U.S., it has lost ground in its neighborhood, faced diplomatic pushback, and failed to deliver on big promises.
Critics argue that Dr. Jaishankar's foreign policy has become reactive, not proactive, and Modi’s diplomatic overtures have become too personality-driven. If India wants to be seen as a true global power, it must recalibrate — with more listening, less lecturing, and a return to inclusive diplomacy.
Final Thought
Foreign policy should not just be about winning headlines; it should be about winning trust. The world is watching, and India's next move could define its global standing for decades to come.
