Harsh Pant Books

India now plays an important role on the global stage. Its political clout has increased along with its economic and military growth. Considered a balancing power in Asia-Pacific, it is also seen as democratically in the West even as it challenges it on issues such as non-proliferation and global trade. This volume provides a comprehensive overview of Indian foreign policy today. It looks at the range of factors that are shaping India's foreign policy, from domestic politics to material capabilities as well as India's relations with the world's major powers and neighbouring countries. Key global issues, such as the role of India in international and regional organisations, nuclear proliferation, democracy and climate change are also discussed. In addition, 'snapshots' focus on important issues such as the strategic triangle: Russia, China and India. Written by an expert in the field, Indian foreign policy will be a key resource for anyone studying Indian or Asian politics, comparative international relations and globalisation.

This short introduction provides a clear and succinct account of the evolution of Indian nuclear policy over six decades since Independence. Situating India's nuclear behaviour in its quest for global status, demands of national security, vagaries of domestic politics and the idiosyncrasies of the individuals who led its nuclear program, it explains how India's engagement with the atom is unique in international nuclear history and politics.