As India’s Independence Day festivities subside, we remember the sacrifices and the dual forces of Bhagat Singh-style freedom fighters, and Mahatma Gandhi’s civil disobedience, as India shook the shackles of British rule in order to live as a sovereign, independent Bharat. From the Red Fort ramparts of 1947 “tryst with destiny” to the 2024 hosting of the G20, India has made great strides forward towards becoming a global economic, political and international trade powerhouse. India’s actions on the global stage are watched closely by nations beyond our borders as India has, through its diplomatic engagement, soft cultural power, and geopolitical acumen, embraced its newfound position as a global, neutral great power player.
Given his carefully constructed position on the world stage, Prime Minister Modi has been no stranger to having to navigate India through turbulent international waters on many fronts. With an overwhelming focus on China and the economic and military threats it poses, Modi’s foreign policy has been dominated by aggressive braggadocio while maintaining seeming ‘neutrality’ towards superpowers and global struggles. Also Read Ukraine Peace Summit: India Needs to Step Up Its Role in Conflict Resolution ADVERTISEMENT REMOVE AD India’s position on the conflict in Ukraine , however, remains one of the most complicated demonstrations of this robust defensiveness of self-interest while also keeping values such as humanitarian engagement, a seeming.