Abstract
India’s foreign policy is deeply rooted in its rich civilisation, culture and history. Throughout, India has followed the principles of non-alignment and the values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning the ‘world is one family’. Over the past 78 years since independence, India has evolved from ‘non-alignment’ to ‘strategic autonomy’ to ‘multi-alignment’, keeping its national interest always prime. Thus, in the contemporary multi-polar world, India’s pursuit of ’strategic autonomy’ also reflects its evolving foreign policy. Today, India looks at a new international order with better representation of the Global South, more inclusivity and mutual respect among nations. This paper analyses India’s march through non-alignment and multi-alignment, focusing on how India maintains its ‘strategic autonomy’ for a better, sustainable world order.
Keywords: Non-alignment, Strategic Autonomy, Atmanirbhar, Global South, Quasi-alliance, Cold War
