Foreign Policy Making in India

Foreign Policy Making in India falls under the jurisdiction of the Union or Central Government of India. Like any other country, India's foreign policy expands its sphere of influence, strengthens its role across nations, and makes its presence feel like an emerging force. The Prime Minister of India and the Ministry of External Affairs also have an important role in determining Foreign Policy Making in India.

Due to the complicated global economic scenario, it becomes important to understand the Foreign Policy Making in India. We have shared the process of policymaking, along with details about the role of the Parliament in policymaking in India here.

About Foreign Policy Making in India

To achieve the goals of foreign policy making in India, 2023 brings several obstacles and opportunities. The rise of China and its influence on India's neighbourhood, for example, is a source of concern for the country. Moreover, the conclusion of discussions for an EU-China Comprehensive Investment Treaty dispels the idea of Chinese isolation following the Covid-19 outbreak and strengthens China's position.

This brings in the need to pay attention to foreign policy making in India. Some of the steps that the country should take is increasing convergence with the United States. India must carefully address foreign policy difficulties and harness opportunities to shift the regional power balance.

Which Body Formulates the Foreign Policy Making in India?

Foreign Policy Making in India is a complicated process that involves the participation of several senior-level decision makers. One of the organizations involved in this process is the Ministry of External Affairs. This is the central government institution in charge of foreign affairs. It is officially in charge of foreign policy making in India, policy execution, and the day-to-day management of international relations.

Here are the details of everyone involved in the process of foreign policy making in India:

• Ministry of External Affairs
• Prime Minister
• Government Agencies
• Political Parties and other interest groups

About the Ministry of External Affairs

• The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) balances and maintains foreign policy making in India.
• A cabinet minister leads the Ministry, supported by the Deputy Foreign Minister.
• The MEA's administrative structure is divided into two categories: territorial divisions and functional divisions. In its relevant domain, each division is in charge of policy coordination.
• Foreign Policy Making in India is a crucial process directly managed by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Prime Minister of India.
• With the rise of tensions among several foreign countries, Foreign Policy Making in India has become crucial.

Process of Foreign Policy Making in India

Foreign policy is a complicated process mediated by numerous parties' involvement. The issue of international affairs falls under the jurisdiction of the Union or Central government in India, which is a federal country. Political parties, the media, pressure organisations, and government structures and authorities such as the Prime Minister and the Ministry of External Affairs have a vital influence on foreign policy making in India.

• Since India has been a functioning democracy, non-government stakeholders have begun to play a more significant role.
• The administration has also launched a public diplomacy apparatus to gather public support for its foreign policy initiatives both at home and abroad.
• In addition, the development of a new type of information and communication technology has resulted in substantial changes in how foreign policy making in India is created and carried out.

Principles of Foreign Policy Making in India

The process of foreign policy making in India requires following certain principles of international standards. Here, we have shared some of the essential principles of foreign policy making in India are:

• Mutual respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of each other
• Equality and mutual benefit
• Non-aggression pact
• Peaceful coexistence

FAQs on Foreign Policy Making in India

Q.1. Who is responsible for foreign policy making in India?

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) balances and maintains foreign policy making in India. It looks after all the foreign affairs and is in charge of foreign policy making in India, policy execution, and the day-to-day management of international relations.

Q.2. What are some of the important principles of foreign policy making in india?

Some of the essential principles of Foreign Policy Making in India are:

• Mutual respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of each other
• Non-aggression pact
• Equality and mutual benefit
• Peaceful coexistence

Q.3. Who was the pioneer of foreign policy making in India?

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was the pioneer of Foreign Policy Making in India. He was keenly interested in articulating India’s foreign affairs and was an active member of the foreign policy making institutions in India. He also became the Foreign Minister of India.

Q.4. What has impacted foreign policy making in India the most?

Foreign Policy Making in India is impacted by the weakening ties of the country with its neighbours. Since almost all the border areas around the country are conflict, zones, India has been unable to maintain good foreign relations with its neighbours. This has impacted India’s foreign policy making.