INDIA IN WORLD AFFAIRS: THE JOURNEY OF 75 YEARS

Abstract

India marks its 75th Independence Day on 15 August 2021. Global celebrations for the anniversary were formally launched on 12 March 2021 with 75 weeks of festivities called ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’. In 75 years, Indian democracy has come a long way. The Republic of India has diplomatic relations with 201 states around the globe having 199 missions and posts operating globally while plans to open new missions in 2020-21 hosted by 11UN Member States. With the world's expenditure, fourth, fifth largest economy by GDP nominal rates and third largest economy in terms of purchasing power parity, India is a prominent regional power and nuclear power, an emerging global power and a potential superpower. India assumes a growing international influence and a prominent voice in global affairs. This paper intends to examine India’s story from agricultural production to nuclear and space technology, from affordable health care to world-class educational institutions, from Ayurveda to biotechnology, from giant steel plants to becoming an IT power and having the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. This paper outlines the changing dynamics of India’s foreign affairs with international community in general and major powers in particular.

Key words: Amrit Mahotsav, Democracy, Nuclear Power, Superpower, International Community