India’s Nuclear Policy
India’s first nuclear explosion in May 1974 was a significant development in the country’s industrialization plans, initiated in the late 1940s under the guidance of Homi J. Bhabha. India aimed to generate atomic energy for peaceful purposes, but Nehru opposed nuclear weapons and pleaded for comprehensive nuclear disarmament. The nuclear arsenal continued to grow, and when Communist China conducted nuclear tests in 1964, the five nuclear weapon powers tried to impose the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) on the rest of the world.
India considered the NPT discriminatory and refused to sign it. The period following the nuclear test was a challenging one in domestic politics, as the Arab-Israel War of 1973 led to the Oil Shock, economic turmoil, and high inflation. Indian politics generally agreed on national integration, international boundary protection, and national interest. During the decade of 1962-1971, foreign policy played a limited role in party politics.
Shifting Alliances in World Politics
In 1977, many non-Congress governments came to power, leading to significant changes in world politics. The Janata Party government announced a non-alignment approach, aiming to correct the pro-Soviet tilt in foreign policy. Since then, all governments have focused on restoring relations with China and establishing close ties with the US. India’s foreign policy is closely linked to its stance towards Pakistan and Indo-US relations. Post-1990, the ruling parties have been criticized for their pro-US foreign policy.
Post-1990, Russia lost global preeminence, leading to a more pro-US strategy. Economic interests have also influenced India’s foreign policy choices. Indo-Pakistan relations have seen new developments, with efforts to restore normal relations, encourage cultural exchanges, and encourage economic cooperation. The establishment of a train and bus service between the two countries has been a major achievement. Despite the near-war situation in 1999, efforts at negotiating durable peace continue.
India’s External Relations| Class 12 Political Science
Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 4 India’s External Relations: India’s external relations are a complex and ever-evolving topic. In this chapter, we will explore the history, principles, and challenges of India’s foreign policy. We will also examine India’s relationship with its key partners, including the United States, China, and Russia. India’s foreign policy is guided by the principles of non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, and respect for international law. These principles were laid down by Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, and have remained the cornerstone of India’s foreign policy ever since.
It is an important topic in Political Science Class 12. Students can go through this article to get comprehensive notes on the topic ‘India’s External Relations’.
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