4 India’s External Relations
The chapter explores India's external relations, focusing on its foreign policy's evolution amidst global conflicts and internal challenges. Key historical moments, including wars with China and Pakistan, illustrate the complexities of India's diplomatic strategies, particularly its policy of non-alignment. The chapter concludes by addressing India's nuclear policy and the shifting dynamics of international relations in the contemporary era.
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What we have learnt
- India's foreign policy was shaped significantly by its non-alignment stance during the Cold War.
- The relationship with neighboring countries, particularly China and Pakistan, was influenced by historical conflicts and geopolitical strategies.
- Nehru played a pivotal role in defining India’s foreign relations, advocating for peace and development while managing international tensions.
Key Concepts
- -- NonAlignment
- A foreign policy approach whereby a nation maintains its independence from major power blocs, particularly during the Cold War.
- -- Panchsheel
- The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence guiding India's relationship with other nations, emphasizing mutual respect and non-interference.
- -- Nuclear Policy
- India's strategy regarding nuclear weapons and energy, emphasizing peaceful use while maintaining a credible defense capability.
- -- Bangladesh War
- The 1971 conflict resulting from East Pakistan's struggle for independence, which India supported, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.
- -- AfroAsian Conference
- A 1955 conference in Bandung advocating solidarity among newly independent nations and leading to the establishment of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
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