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Question #19

"The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised Nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order." Elaborate.

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The phrase "The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalized Nations has disappeared on account of its new-found role in the emerging global order" suggests that India's image as a champion for the rights of oppressed and marginalized nations has diminished due to its evolving role in the global landscape. Let's elaborate on this statement.

  1. Shift in Focus: Historically, India has been seen as a leader in various global movements, such as the Non-Aligned Movement, where it advocated for the rights and interests of developing nations. During this period, India aligned itself with countries seeking decolonization, independence, and social justice. However, in recent times, India's focus seems to have shifted towards its own economic development and geopolitical interests, possibly diluting its commitment to the cause of marginalized nations.

  2. Economic Growth: India's rapid economic growth in the past few decades has made it a significant player in the global economy. As it continues to pursue economic liberalization and attract foreign investments, its policies may prioritize trade and economic partnerships over addressing widespread global issues of inequality and marginalization. This shift in priorities might have contributed to the disappearance of the long-sustained image of India as a leader for the oppressed and marginalized.

  3. Geopolitical Considerations: India's rising influence in regional and global politics has necessitated forging alliances and partnerships with countries that may not share similar values or priorities regarding marginalized nations. In pursuit of its national interests, India may need to compromise on its advocacy for marginalized nations in order to gain the support of powerful allies. This strategic shift could, over time, erode India's reputation as a leader fighting for the rights of the oppressed.

  4. Internal Challenges: India's own complex internal dynamics, including deeply ingrained social, economic, and political inequalities, may also contribute to the fading image of a leader for marginalized nations. Addressing internal challenges like poverty, caste discrimination, and religious tensions can be absorbing, diverting attention and resources from the global fight against oppression and marginalization.

  5. Controversial Policies: Some of India's recent policies, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act and the revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, have sparked criticism and debate regarding their implications on human rights and the treatment of marginalized communities within the country. These controversial decisions have raised questions about India's commitment to protecting the rights of marginalized groups, further impacting its global image.

In summary, the emergence of India as a significant player in the global order, driven by its economic growth and geopolitical considerations, has led to a shift in its priorities. As India focuses more on its national interests, its image as a leader for the oppressed and marginalized nations seems to have diminished. However, it is important to note that despite these changes, India's commitment to addressing global issues of inequality and marginalization should not be overlooked, as it continues to contribute to various international efforts.

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The statement that India's "long-sustained image as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised Nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order" is a complex and debatable one. While it's true that India's international posture has shifted in recent years, it's inaccurate to suggest that its commitment to the oppressed and marginalized has vanished entirely. Here's a nuanced look at the arguments:

Arguments supporting the statement:

  • Shifting Priorities: India's economic rise has led to a focus on national interests and economic growth. This has resulted in a more pragmatic foreign policy, prioritizing strategic partnerships with powerful nations and pursuing its own economic goals.
  • Strategic Ambiguity: India has become more cautious in its pronouncements on global issues, often choosing a path of non-alignment or strategic ambiguity. This is seen by some as a departure from its previous role as a vocal advocate for the marginalized.
  • Geopolitical Realpolitik: India's engagement with powerful countries like the US and its growing economic and military ties with them, while advantageous for its national security, can be perceived as distancing itself from the struggles of developing nations.
  • Domestic Challenges: India's own internal challenges, including poverty, inequality, and religious tensions, have also contributed to a less outward-looking approach.

Arguments against the statement:

  • Continued Support for Developing Nations: India continues to provide significant aid and support to developing countries, particularly in South Asia and Africa. It actively participates in international organizations like the UN and pursues development initiatives through institutions like the BRICS bank.
  • Voice for the Global South: India continues to raise its voice on issues of global inequality and climate change, often aligning itself with developing nations in international forums. It also actively advocates for reform within global institutions to better reflect the interests of developing countries.
  • Soft Power Diplomacy: India uses cultural diplomacy, promoting its heritage and promoting Indian values, to connect with other nations, especially in the Global South. This fosters a sense of commonality and shared values.
  • Multi-faceted Approach: India's foreign policy is not simply about siding with the oppressed or the powerful. It involves a complex balancing act, seeking to secure its national interests while also promoting a more equitable global order.

Conclusion:

While India's international role has undoubtedly evolved, it's overly simplistic to say that its commitment to the oppressed and marginalized has completely disappeared. The reality is more nuanced. India's focus on national interests and its growing strategic partnerships with powerful nations have undoubtedly shifted its focus, but it continues to engage with developing nations and advocate for a more just global order. The key question is how India can balance its own national aspirations with its historical role as a leader for the Global South in the emerging world order.

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What a fascinating topic! Let me break it down for you.

Historically, India was seen as a beacon of hope for many oppressed and marginalised nations, particularly during the Cold War era. India's non-aligned movement, led by Jawaharlal Nehru, was a symbol of resistance against colonialism, imperialism, and domination by powerful nations. India's independence movement, led by Mahatma Gandhi, inspired many other struggles for independence across the world. India was seen as a champion of the global South, advocating for the rights and interests of developing countries.

However, over the years, India's role in the global order has undergone a significant transformation. With its rapid economic growth, increasing global influence, and shifting foreign policy priorities, India's image as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised nations has begun to fade.

Here are some reasons why:

  1. Economic growth and rising global influence: India's rapidly growing economy has made it an attractive partner for both developed and developing countries. India has become a significant player in global governance, joining the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) grouping and participating actively in international organisations like the G20. While this growth has lifted millions out of poverty, it has also led to a shift in India's priorities, from championing the causes of the global South to pursuing its own economic interests.
  2. Changing foreign policy priorities: Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, India's foreign policy has become more pragmatic and pragmatic. India has increasingly engaged with the United States, the European Union, and other developed countries, which has led to a decrease in its focus on South-South cooperation and its traditional role as a leader of non-aligned nations.
  3. Shift from Non-Alignment to Multi-Alignment: India's foreign policy has evolved from non-alignment to multi-alignment, where India seeks to engage with multiple powers and multilateral organisations to advance its own interests. While this approach has brought benefits, it has also led to accusations that India is no longer committed to its traditional role as a champion of the global South.
  4. Rise of India as a regional power: India's growing military and economic power has led to concerns among its smaller neighbours, such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. India's neighbourhood first policy, which aims to strengthen ties with its immediate neighbours, has sometimes been seen as assertive and even dominant. This has led to perceptions that India is no longer the champion of the weak and marginalised.
  5. Domestic challenges and priorities: India's domestic challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and social unrest, have led to a growing focus on internal development and economic growth. While this is understandable, it has led to a decrease in India's international activism on issues like human rights, democracy, and global governance.

In conclusion, India's new found role in the emerging global order has led to a decline in its image as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised nations. While India is still an important player in global governance, its shift in priorities, foreign policy, and economic growth have led to a change in its international perception. However, it is essential for India to strike a balance between its domestic priorities and its international responsibilities, lest it loses its credibility as a champion of the global South.