India’s Diplomatic and Strategic Setbacks amid Regional Conflicts
India faces diplomatic isolation and loss of strategic assets following defeat by Pakistan, including withdrawal from the Ayni Air Base in Tajikistan. Despite significant diplomatic spending and numerous foreign visits, India’s regional standing is diminishing as neighbors stay neutral or align elsewhere. Domestic policies and foreign strategy, particularly regarding Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban, have damaged India’s credibility and regional influence.
The article discusses India’s declining regional and diplomatic stature following military setbacks against Pakistan and poor strategic decisions. India lost access to the Ayni Air Base in Tajikistan, a key military asset due to its overtures to the Afghan Taliban and conflicting regional alliances. This loss highlights India’s shrinking influence as even smaller Central Asian states expelled it. During recent clashes with Pakistan, India had limited international support, with only Israel and Afghanistan standing by it while many countries remained silent or sided with Pakistan. Additionally, India’s neighbors like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives have maintained neutrality or leaned towards other powers such as China, further isolating New Delhi. Domestic policies under the BJP government, including rigid Hindutva-driven security controls, have contributed to this diplomatic isolation. Despite India’s extensive diplomatic expenditure, large-scale foreign trips by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and high-profile outreach, the country remains diplomatically vulnerable. Former National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon predicted such a fallout due to Modi government’s reckless strategies that prioritize domestic political gains over international relationships. The article uses social stratification theories to frame India’s diminished status, implying that a meritocratic system rewards capable actors with power and status, a position India currently is losing. Overall, India’s foreign policy and military setbacks have led to loss of friends, assets, and credibility on the global and regional stage.
