Global Engagement and Strategic Positioning for India

The analysis focuses on the implications of global tariffs and penalties on India's strategic decisions, particularly in light of the actions by the US.

Key Observations

• India's Strategic Misstep: India overestimated its "counterbalance to China" role, failing to anticipate the repercussions of U.S. tariffs and penalties aimed at nations engaging with Russia. 
• Shift in Global Focus: As the US's tariffs failed to sway China and Russia, attention turned towards Europe and India, leading to a disruption in the longstanding India-US bipartisan consensus. 
• Importance of Strategic Autonomy: India's global approach must emphasize autonomy, transcending its current state as a liminal power, which balances precariously in a multipolar world where influence is fragmented. 

Recommendations for India

• Reposition as a Bridging Power: India should capitalize on its capability to connect with a diverse range of economies, from the least to the most developed, and engage across varied sectors. 
• Pursue Unconventional Spaces: Beyond traditional topics like terrorism, India should build its reputation in areas such as health, climate change, and the environment to strengthen its global standing. 
• Leverage Multilateralism: By delivering on multilateral promises and fostering prosperity, India can enhance its leverage on the global stage.