From Strategic Autonomy to Global Leadership: India’s Evolving Role in the Emerging Multipolar World Order

Abstract

The contemporary international system is undergoing significant changes characterised by the diffusion of economic influence, geopolitical competition and demands for more representative global governance. Within this evolving environment, India has pursued a foreign policy combining strategic autonomy, diversified partnerships and active participation in multilateral institutions. This article examines the evolution of India's international role and the relationship between its traditional commitment to independent decision-making and its growing engagement in global governance.

Employing historical, descriptive, comparative and analytical research methods, the study draws upon official diplomatic documents, international institutional reports and relevant scholarly literature. It investigates seven interconnected dimensions: the historical foundations of strategic autonomy, India's relations with major powers, its participation in multilateral institutions, its engagement with the Global South, economic and technological diplomacy, security cooperation and the structural limitations affecting its international influence.

The analysis identifies continuity between India's earlier foreign-policy principles and its contemporary practice of maintaining multiple international partnerships. Its G20 presidency, participation in BRICS and the Quad, development cooperation initiatives and advocacy of multilateral reform demonstrate an increasingly diversified diplomatic agenda. However, these activities do not establish that India has achieved comprehensive global leadership. Its influence remains conditioned by economic capabilities, regional security concerns, institutional constraints and differences among its international partners.