Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction (40-50 words)

• Start with a brief overview of India’s independence in 1947 and the evolution of its foreign policy.
• Introduce the linkage: Highlight that post-independence foreign policy was influenced by the ideals of the Indian national movement.
• Thesis statement: Mention that key ideals from the national movement like non-violence, Swaraj, anti-imperialism, and economic self-reliance directly influenced India’s foreign policy choices.

Example: Post-independence, India’s foreign policy was guided by the ideals of the Indian national movement, which emphasized non-violence, self-rule (Swaraj), social justice, and economic independence. These principles helped shape India’s stance on global issues, including its stance on non-alignment, anti-imperialism, and international cooperation.

2. Ideals of the Indian National Movement (80-100 words)

• List and explain key principles promoted by the Indian national movement.
• Mention major figures like Gandhi and Nehru, and how these ideals shaped the movement.
• Provide a concise definition for each ideal and its relevance.

Facts to use:

• Non-Violence (Ahimsa): Central to Gandhi’s philosophy, it was a method of peaceful resistance against colonial rule.
• Swaraj (Self-rule): The demand for self-governance, autonomy, and freedom from British colonialism.
• Unity in Diversity: The movement’s inclusivity in terms of religion, caste, and region, aimed at fostering national unity.
• Social Justice: Addressing social inequalities, including caste discrimination.
• Economic Self-Reliance: Promoting self-sufficiency and reducing economic dependency on Britain.
• Internationalism: Solidarity with global anti-colonial struggles and support for global peace.

3. Linking National Movement Ideals to Post-Independence Foreign Policy (150-180 words)

• Discuss how each ideal translated into actual foreign policy decisions.
• Link specific policies or actions by post-independence leaders like Nehru and Indira Gandhi to the aforementioned ideals.

Facts to use:

• Non-Alignment:
  • India’s policy of non-alignment, emphasized at the 1955 Bandung Conference and institutionalized by Jawaharlal Nehru, was based on the idea of maintaining sovereignty and avoiding alignment with either the US or Soviet blocs during the Cold War.
• Anti-Imperialism:
  • India supported anti-colonial struggles worldwide, such as in Africa and Southeast Asia. Notably, India was a key player in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, despite pressure from the US.
• Peace and Disarmament:
  • India advocated for nuclear disarmament and became a prominent voice in the UN for peaceful coexistence.
• South-South Cooperation:
  • India was central to the formation of the G-77 and promoted South-South solidarity, emphasizing collective action among developing countries.
• Economic Self-Reliance:
  • India followed an import-substitution industrialization policy, emphasizing economic independence and self-reliance in industries like steel, textiles, and agriculture.
• Environmental Sustainability:
  • Reflecting Gandhian thought, India took leadership at the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Environment and more recently, the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance.

4. Conclusion (40-50 words)

• Summarize the key linkage: Conclude by reiterating how India’s foreign policy was shaped by the values of the national movement.
• Mention relevance today: Briefly, mention that these ideals continue to guide India’s foreign relations in the present day.

Example: India’s post-independence foreign policy reflects the core principles of the national movement, such as non-alignment, anti-imperialism, and economic self-reliance. These principles continue to guide India’s diplomatic strategies, balancing national interest with global peace, cooperation, and sustainability.

Additional Relevant Facts and Sources:

• Nehru’s Foreign Policy: Nehru’s emphasis on peaceful coexistence and non-alignment is evident in his role at the Bandung Conference and the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement.
• Gandhi’s Influence on Global Movements: Gandhi’s non-violent methods were adopted worldwide, and his influence is evident in India’s peaceful approaches to global issues.
• India’s Role in UN Peacekeeping: India has been a significant contributor to UN peacekeeping missions since its independence, reflecting its commitment to peace.
• Economic Self-Reliance & Protectionism: India’s post-independence economic policies focused on reducing reliance on foreign imports through state-led industrialization.
• South-South Cooperation: India continues to champion the cause of developing countries through organizations like BRICS, G-77, and the South-South Cooperation office at the UN.