1. India and the United Nations (UN)
India was a founding member of the UN (1945) and has always viewed it as a vital platform for the voice of the developing world. India’s engagement with the UN is multifaceted, focusing on peacekeeping and institutional reform.
Key Contributions
- Peacekeeping: India is historically one of the largest contributors of troops to UN Peacekeeping Missions (UNPKF), serving in conflict zones from Korea and Congo to South Sudan.
- Decolonization: India led the movement in the UN for the independence of colonized nations in Africa and Asia.
- Human Rights and Development: Strong advocate for social equity and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Demand for UNSC Reform
India is a leading candidate for a Permanent Seat in the UN Security Council. India argues that the UNSC is outdated and doesn't reflect the 21st-century reality.
Basis of India's Claim: Largest democracy, huge population, large economy, and consistent contribution to UN peacekeeping.
2. India's Nuclear Policy and Global Governance
India’s nuclear journey is unique; it developed nuclear weapons while remaining a staunch advocate for global disarmament.
Core Tenets of India's Nuclear Doctrine
- No First Use (NFU): India will only use nuclear weapons in response to a nuclear attack on Indian territory or Indian forces.
- Credible Minimum Deterrence: Maintaining only as many weapons as necessary to deter an enemy.
- Non-proliferation: Although India is not a signatory to the NPT (calling it discriminatory), it maintains an impeccable record of not sharing nuclear technology with other states.
3. India and Emerging Forums: BRICS, G20, and SCO
As the global power balance shifts toward the East, India has become a key player in new multilateral groups.
Major Forums
- G20: India hosted the G20 Summit in 2023, positioning itself as the "Voice of the Global South" and focusing on digital public infrastructure and climate finance.
- BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa): A forum for major emerging economies to challenge Western dominance in global financial institutions (IMF/World Bank).
- SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation): Focuses on regional security, counter-terrorism, and connectivity in Central Asia.
4. Look East to Act East: ASEAN and East Asia
India's engagement with Southeast Asia has evolved significantly over three decades.
Evolution of the Policy
- Look East Policy (1991): Launched by P.V. Narasimha Rao to reconnect with Southeast Asia after the Cold War.
- Act East Policy (2014): Launched by Narendra Modi, this policy is more proactive, focusing on the 4 Cs: Culture, Commerce, Connectivity, and Capacity building.
- ASEAN Centrality: India views the 10-member ASEAN group as the center of its Indo-Pacific strategy.
[Image showing India's Act East policy and connectivity projects like the Kaladan Multi-modal project]
5. Exam Focus: Tips and FAQs
Exam Tips
- G4 Nations: Mention the G4 (India, Brazil, Germany, Japan)—a group that supports each other's bids for permanent UNSC seats.
- Voice of Global South: This is a very "current" term. Use it when discussing India's role in the G20 or BRICS.
- Disarmament: Be clear that India wants Universal and Non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament, not just for some countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the 'Veto Power' and why does India want it?
A: The Veto is the power of a permanent member to block any resolution. India wants it to have a decisive say in global security matters and to protect its national interests from being blocked by rivals.
Q: How is 'Act East' different from 'Look East'?
A: 'Look East' was primarily economic; 'Act East' includes a strong strategic and security dimension, involving military cooperation with nations like Vietnam and Singapore.