India's foreign policy in the twenty-first century: The quest for major power status

India's quest for major power status has been a defining feature of its foreign policy since independence. However, except for the initial years of nonalignment, the quest has been hamstrung due to various constraints—economic, political, social and strategic. Keeping its principal goals premised on four objectives— autonomy, economic development, securing the state and attaining status and respect—India has sought to overcome the main challenges. Moreover, China and Pakistan have hampered its rise and as things stand today, dealing with the neighbours will remain a daunting task. Attaining major power status also involves shouldering regional and global responsibilities in diverse domains such as energy, the environment, global trade, human rights, good governance and international security. India also needs to pivot its foreign policy to the Asia-Pacific where the centre of gravity of international relations is shifting.