India in the Asia-Pacific power dynamics: Problems and prospects

Since the end of the Cold War, the Asia-Pacific has undergone significant changes in the pattern of power balancing. The breakup of the Soviet Union left an indelible and drastic impact on the overall strategic scenario. On the one hand, two major powers—China and Russia—have come closer together, while on the other the US and its allies have sought to maintain hegemony. The American presence however is facing a stern challenge from the rising dragon. The incessant formation of alliances and counteralliances creates new power dynamics. During the Cold War, despite its policy of nonalignment, India had been associated more with the former Soviet Union. However, in the post-Cold War era, the Nonaligned Movement has been left in the lurch and a paradigmatic shift has been seen in New Delhi's overseas strategy. This study analyses the hurdles and problems the new power dynamics pose for Indian foreign policy goals.