Siddharth Mallavarapu, in Classical Realism and Indian Foreign Policy: Some Cautionary Notes(Studies in Indian Politics, Vol 13, Issue 1), offers a “thought experiment” to assess Indian foreign policy through the theoretical lens of classical realism. The author examines five key claims of classical realism: purpose and power, the role of history, domestic politics, national interest, and navigating uncertainty, to evaluate the last decade (2014-2024) of Indian foreign policy. Mallavarapu asserts, “the role that purpose and power conjoined play in influencing outcomes, an acknowledgment of the weight of the past on the present in terms of orientations and subsequent trajectories, the role of domestic politics, the fluid constitution of national interests, and accounting for complexity are all part of a rich classical realist inventory.”
Over the past decade, Indian foreign policy has been characterized by ambitions to elevate India’s global standing, lead reforms in the international system, and expand cooperation while cultivating allies and engaging multilaterally. India has sought to build partnerships with the U.S., manage its relations with China and Russia, deepen neighborhood initiatives, and position itself as a key player in the Indo-Pacific. These foreign policy practices demonstrate that ‘multi-alignment’ and ‘multipolarity’ are India’s guiding principles, rooted in preserving the “freedom to choose an independent stance on issues and relationships premised on India’s national interest.” However, the author notes that India’s power, or material capabilities—not only in terms of the economy but also defense capabilities, security preparedness, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence—still impose constraints on its global aspirations and necessitate reinforcement.
Classical realism emphasizes history as a significant force shaping foreign policy. The article traces the evolution of India’s foreign policy commitments, particularly during the Nehru era, when South-South solidarity and leadership in global governance became central. Despite limited material capabilities, India’s commitments to anti-colonialism, global equity, human rights, and nuclear restraint informed its international engagement and generated influence. The author argues that India’s current engagement with the world is partly a continuation of these earlier ambitions, now framed through civilizational narratives.
Domestic politics also plays a crucial role in the classical realist framework. The author highlights transformations in India’s domestic sphere, noting that the BJP has aggressively utilized narratives of foreign policy successes for domestic audiences, projecting India as a muscular and confident global power. However, fundamental gaps in economic fundamentals persist. Consequently, classical realists emphasize the need for concrete progress in all aspects that “contribute to a fundamental bolstering of a state’s power.”
The article further discusses national interests in foreign policy. Classical realists recognize that national interests are malleable, shaped by values, priorities, and larger purposes. In democracies, this raises questions about who defines and shapes national interests: the elites or the public? While major decisions, such as going to war, remain in the elite domain, public opinion does influence some foreign policy decisions. Nevertheless, realists argue for a sober assessment of capabilities and the likely outcomes of using force before engaging in any form of adventurism.
Finally, classical realism identifies uncertainty as an enduring feature of world politics. India’s hedging strategies, reluctance toward formal alliances, and cautious posturing toward China reflect a realist appreciation of unpredictable future contingencies. Rather than offering prescriptive policy solutions, classical realists advocate for prudence and restraint in the face of unpredictable geopolitical shifts.
The article employs classical realism to understand India’s foreign policy by emphasizing history, power, domestic politics, and complex national interests. It contends that India has always sought status and influence, and this ambition is likely to persist as its power grows. Classical realism underscores that politics is uncertain and outcomes are shaped by choices, making humility and prudence essential. These ideas help explain both India’s achievements and its challenges, particularly in a diverse and complex society where mistakes can have serious consequences.