This article reviews the evolving attitude of Indian policymakers towards the role of the country’s armed forces in diplomacy. From an official pacifist philosophy and reluctance to project military power despite having developed a nuclear deterrent capability, India has moved into a more assertive role in reaction to the continuing strategic challenges posed by Pakistan and China. New Delhi has multiplied military-to-military collaboration agreements and training exercises with countries on all continents, increasing arms sales, while remaining a major contributor to United Nations peacekeeping missions.
