India’s Foreign Policy 2024: Milestones Achieved and Strategic Priorities for 2025

By: Saksham Gadia and Lavanya Malani

The authors are final-year law students at Jindal Global Law School and can be reached at sakshamgadia@gmail.com and lavanyamalani123@gmail.com.

The Diplomatist

Introduction

In 2024, India's foreign policy exhibited notable advancements highlighting its transforming position internationally. The country skilfully manoeuvred across intricate geopolitical terrains, building ties and tackling regional issues. As India approaches 2025, it is essential to capitalise on these accomplishments while aggressively tackling impending challenges to elevate its global stature. This article examines significant developments in the Indian geo-political landscape for 2024 and the major avenues it must consider for the forthcoming year. 

Significant Developments

A significant milestone in 2024 was the agreement between India and China over patrolling protocols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This agreement sought to alleviate enduring border conflicts and promote stability in the area. The accord enabled the recommencement of patrols and the withdrawal of forces in contested regions, restoring positions to their pre-crisis condition. This advancement was reinforced by an official meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping, at which both leaders pledged to improve communication and collaboration (MEA, 2024). In its interaction with the West, India also persistently enhanced its strategic alliances, especially with the United States. During a constructive discussion, U.S. President Donald Trump underscored the need for India to acquire further American-manufactured security apparatus and to strive for a more equitable bilateral trade partnership. This discourse highlighted the reciprocal dedication to enhancing defence and commercial relations between the two countries (Schipani & Kaushik, 2025). Further, India's strong engagement in global organisations was shown by its participation in the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. The summit emphasised India's contribution to advancing alternative trade systems and enhancing economic relations among the BRICS countries. This involvement highlighted India's commitment to promoting a multipolar world order and collectively tackling global economic difficulties (Crabtree, 2024). In 2024, India also emerged as a prominent advocate for the Global South, championing equal access to resources and technology. India's plan prominently included initiatives aimed at climate change, digital public goods, and global debt reduction, underscoring its commitment to inclusive growth and the issues underdeveloped countries face.

Strategic Objectives for 2025

Improved relations with market leaders 

In 2025, India needs to prioritise the enhancement of commercial and security relations with neighbouring nations. Improving connectivity and commerce via efforts such as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) may strengthen regional stability and mitigate foreign pressures. Strengthening links with neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka would enhance the 'Neighbourhood First' strategy and facilitate mutual prosperity (Subramanian, 2024).

Further, India should aim to improve its geo-political relations with significant nations such as the United States, China, and Russia which will continue to be essential. India must preserve its strategic autonomy while participating in constructive conversations to address issues and identify areas of shared interest. This equitable strategy would allow India to optimise its collaborations in a multipolar environment (Pandalai, 2024). India needs to maintain an active engagement in multilateral organisations to tackle global concerns like climate change, health emergencies, and economic inequalities. Through the promotion of reforms and egalitarian policies, India may enhance its status as a leader among emerging countries and foster a more balanced global order (Aamer & Crabtree, 2024).  

Emphasising economic diplomacy is crucial for securing foreign investments and fostering regional economic unity. Concentrating on industries such as renewable energy, technology, and infrastructure may facilitate sustainable development. Moreover, broadening trade alliances and diminishing reliance on any one country will bolster economic resilience (Garge, 2025). Initiatives that enhance tourism, educational exchanges, and cultural cooperation would strengthen India's soft power and cultivate enduring connections with other countries.  

Impending Challenges Administration of Persistent Border Conflicts  

The border conflicts of India, especially with China, continue to be a significant issue. Despite the establishment of agreements to mitigate tensions along the Line of Actual Control, the situation continues to be precarious. In October 2024, both countries established patrolling protocols in locations such as Depsang and Demchok, intending to reinstate tranquillity in these territories. The enduring military presence and infrastructure development near the border highlight the need for ongoing diplomatic engagement and confidence-building initiatives to avert escalations. Consistent high-level discussions and military interactions are crucial for managing disputes and fostering confidence between the two nations. 

Impact of Foreign Powers in South Asia  

The increasing influence of foreign countries, particularly China, in South Asia poses threats to India's regional interests. Recent political changes in adjacent nations have indicated a trend towards China. In Bangladesh, the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the ascendance of Muhammad Yunus, who critiques India's prior backing, might result in a foreign policy shift favouring China. Nepal's new administration has shown eagerness to engage in China's infrastructure initiatives, while the Maldives has dismissed Indian military forces and established a military agreement with China. India must aggressively connect with its neighbours via diplomatic efforts and development aid to offset these changes. Fortifying economic relations, advancing connectivity measures, and promoting capacity-building efforts may alleviate external pressures and bolster regional collaboration.  

Transforming the Global Geopolitical Landscape  

The global geopolitical landscape is becoming more complex, characterised by evolving alliances and developing conflicts. The fortification of the China-Russia alliance, ambiguities within Western coalitions, and shifting dynamics in the Indo-Pacific area need adaptability in India's foreign policy. Remaining cognizant and reactive to these changes is essential for protecting national interests. India must diversify its strategic alliances, participate in multilateral forums, and maintain its strategic autonomy to successfully traverse this dynamic terrain. Establishing robust economic and security frameworks would allow India to adjust to global changes while preserving its fundamental interests (AP News, 2025).  

Conclusion

As India approaches 2025, it is essential to consolidate its 2024 accomplishments while confronting future threats. Fortifying regional connections, overseeing main power dynamics, and augmenting multilateral participation will amplify its global impact. Economic diplomacy, cultural exchanges, and strategic alliances may promote stability and sustained development. An anticipatory strategy towards geopolitical changes, coupled with flexible policies, can guarantee resilience in a changing global order. By emphasising diplomatic flexibility and collaboration, India can strengthen its leadership position, foster global peace, and safeguard enduring national interests. Effectively managing these complications with foresight will be crucial for sustaining strategic equilibrium and global confidence.

References

Aamer F.& Crabtree J. (2024) J India's foreign policy 2025: Navigating a shifting geopolitical landscape. Asia Society. https://asiasociety.org/policy-institute/events/indias-foreign-policy-2025-navigating-shifting-geopolitical-landscape.  

AP News (2024). China, India agree to resume pilgrimages, journalist exchanges. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/china-india-border-meeting-himalayas-ladakh-d47371a16f6db412203a5bd060c37d8d.   

Garge R. (2024). A year in review: India's strategic accomplishments in 2024. Fair Observer. https://www.fairobserver.com/politics/a-year-in-review-indias-strategic-accomplishments-in-2024/.  

Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India (2024, October). Recently signed border agreements with China. Ministry of External Affairs, India. https://www.mea.gov.in/rajya-sabha.htm?dtl/38689/QUESTION+NO+1199+RECENTLY+SIGNED+BORDER+AGREEMENTS+WITH+CHINA#:~:text=Ministry%20of%20External%20Affairs%20Government%20of%20India&text=(a%20to%20d)%20India%20and,October%202024%2C%20leading%20to%20disengagement.  

Schipani & Kaushik (2025) India urged to buy more US arms to balance trade. Financial Times. https://www.ft.com/content/a33cdadb-5e09-4dd1-a9be-f995466338b6.  

Subramanian N. (2025). Five challenges that will continue to shape India's foreign policy in 2025. News laundry. https://www.newslaundry.com/2024/12/30/five-challenges-that-will-continue-to-shape-indias-foreign-policy-in-2025.  

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