In 2024, the world found itself at a critical juncture, grappling with deepening global fault lines and multiplying crises. From wars in Europe and the Middle East disrupting energy markets and food security to escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific, the challenges were vast and interconnected. China’s aggressive manoeuvres in the South China Sea and along its borders with India, conflicts in Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas dispute, internal strife in Myanmar, and political unrest in Bangladesh all underscored the fragility of regional stability in South Asia. Against the backdrop of these crises, the persistent threat of climate change and rising inequality emphasized the urgent need for coordinated responses to global challenges.
Amidst this turbulent environment, India’s foreign policy stood out for its clarity and resilience in 2024. Balancing strategic autonomy with global engagement, India safeguarded its interests while contributing to stability beyond its borders. The country’s economic strategies, including diversifying energy imports and promoting renewable energy partnerships, reflected a pragmatic approach to ensuring energy independence in a volatile global landscape.
Trump’s Presidency
The return of Donald Trump as US President in 2024 brought about shifts in Washington’s foreign policy priorities, presenting both opportunities and challenges for India. While Trump’s focus on ending conflicts, countering China, and strengthening ties with democratic allies aligned with India’s objectives, potential changes in trade policies and his transactional approach to alliances required India to navigate complexities with caution. Additionally, Trump’s immigration policies, such as reforms to H-1B visas and family-based immigration programs, had significant implications for Indian professionals and the diaspora. However, the bipartisan consensus on enhancing India-US relations remained strong, positioning the partnership as a stabilizing force in a polarized world. India’s diplomatic agility would be crucial in managing the evolving dynamics.
India’s impactful legacy in the G20 during its Presidency continued to be upheld by subsequent presidencies of Brazil and South Africa. The country’s commitment to human-centric globalisation and promoting the global common good enhanced its foreign policy influence on the world stage. The concept of Vishwa Mitra (Friend to the World) exemplified India’s dedication to collaborative efforts for global well-being and sustainable development. Whether through leading the G20, engaging in vaccine diplomacy, advocating for equitable access to digital public goods, or providing swift assistance in times of crisis, India embodied the values of inclusivity and shared progress.
Under the leadership of PM Modi, India positioned itself as a key player in addressing global challenges, fostering mutual respect, and advancing a vision of a peaceful and equitable world order. Modi’s commitment to peace through diplomacy was evident in his diplomatic visits to Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing India’s role as a responsible global actor.
Strengthening Defence Capabilities
The global conflicts of 2024 underscored the critical importance of robust defence capabilities. With global military spending reaching unprecedented levels, India’s $81 billion defence budget signaled its dedication to national security. Amid escalating tensions, India’s focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing and emerging technologies showcased its ability to innovate while meeting strategic needs.
Regionally, India faced unique challenges stemming from economic turmoil and great power rivalries in its immediate neighbourhood. From providing financial and technical support to stabilizing economies in Sri Lanka and the Maldives to maintaining diplomatic engagement with Bangladesh, India navigated complex dynamics. To safeguard its interests in Bangladesh amid political unrest, proactive engagement with all stakeholders was deemed essential. The Israel-Hamas conflict tested India’s diplomatic balancing act as it prioritized the safety of its diaspora, extended humanitarian aid, and called for peaceful resolutions.
Embracing Strategic Autonomy
As India approaches 2025, leveraging its strengths while addressing emerging challenges will be paramount. The country’s policy of pragmatic strategic autonomy will be crucial in navigating multilateral platforms and adapting to shifting geopolitics. The unprecedented win of Trump presents an opportunity to deepen strategic ties with the US, while engaging with both trusted and less trusted partners will be necessary to safeguard India’s interests.
Geopolitically, effectively managing China’s assertiveness and ensuring regional stability will require sustained engagement with Quad partners and participation in multilateral forums like BRICS and the SCO. Any potential reconciliation with China must prioritize peace and tranquillity along the border areas.
India’s ‘neighbourhood first’ approach will continue to guide its foreign policy, securing vital national interests and enhancing interactions with key partners. Extending PM Modi’s vision of ‘sabka saath, sabka vikas’ to the immediate neighbourhood will foster trust and cooperation.
On the global stage, India can leverage its G20 legacy to champion the concerns of the Global South, particularly in areas like debt relief and climate financing. Continued support for Africa and developing countries through infrastructure development, healthcare initiatives, and renewable energy projects will showcase India’s commitment to global solidarity. By expanding digital public infrastructure as a global public good, India can not only enhance its technological leadership but also promote inclusivity. Energy security will remain a top priority in 2025, necessitating diversification of energy sources and acceleration of clean energy transitions.
(Harsh Vardhan Shringla is a former Foreign Secretary of India and Ambassador to USA, Bangladesh, and Thailand.)
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author
