मुश्किल पड़ोसी एक हकीकत हैं, लेकिन भारत… S Jaishankar का इशारों-इशारों में Pakistan को संदेश

India’s Neighborhood Policy and Challenges

India cannot ignore its difficult neighbors, no matter how unpleasant the reality may be. Since independence, India’s foreign policy has shifted from being closely linked (“hyphenated”) with Pakistan to a more independent approach (“dehyphenation”). However, recent events suggest some rehyphenation, raising questions about the gap between policy intentions and diplomatic outcomes.

India’s “Neighborhood First” policy aims to prioritize relationships with neighboring countries. The policy’s goal is not to solve every problem but to manage relationships for national advantage. Over the last decade, India has invested heavily in regional cooperation—through infrastructure projects, energy grids, and support during crises like COVID-19 and Sri Lanka’s financial troubles.

Despite these efforts, neighbors remain challenging, as is the case for any country in the world. India tries to accommodate its neighbors as much as possible, but national interests always come first. The best way to maintain independence in foreign policy is to strengthen India’s own capabilities and become an attractive, impactful partner in the region.

India’s rise depends on managing its neighborhood effectively, balancing cooperation with self-interest, and remaining prepared for disruptions. The journey is complex, but India continues to focus on being the “go-to country” in South Asia.