How has India’s international role changed?

Edexcel B GCSE Geography > Development Dynamics > How has India’s international role changed?

India’s rapid economic development has significantly enhanced its geopolitical influence, reshaping its international relationships and roles in global organisations.

Geopolitical Influence and International Organisations

BRICS Membership: India is a founding member of BRICS, a coalition that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. As of 2024, BRICS represents approximately 45% of the world’s population and 35% of global GDP when measured at purchasing power parity. The bloc has recently expanded to include Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, further increasing its global economic and political clout.
G20 Participation: India is an active member of the G20, a forum comprising the world’s largest economies. In 2023, India held the G20 presidency, hosting the summit in New Delhi and emphasising issues such as sustainable development, climate change, and digital innovation.

Relations with the European Union (EU) and the United States (USA)

Trade with the EU: The EU is one of India’s largest trading partners. In 2022, bilateral trade in goods reached €120 billion, with India exporting goods worth €60 billion and importing €60 billion from the EU. Both parties are negotiating for a comprehensive free trade agreement to enhance economic ties further.
Trade with the USA: The USA is a significant destination for Indian exports. In 2022, India’s exports to the USA were valued at approximately $76 billion, while imports stood at $50 billion. The two nations collaborate on various fronts, including defence, technology, and climate change initiatives.

Political Ambitions and Global Leadership

India’s economic ascent has fueled its aspirations for a more prominent role in global governance:

United Nations Security Council (UNSC): India seeks a permanent seat on the UNSC and advocates for reforms that reflect contemporary global realities.
International Financial Institutions: India aims for greater influence within institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, emphasising the need for these bodies to better represent emerging economies.

Climate Change and Environmental Initiatives

Recognizing the challenges posed by climate change, India has committed to substantial environmental initiatives:

Renewable Energy Targets: India has set ambitious goals to increase its renewable energy capacity, aiming for 500 GW by 2030.
International Solar Alliance (ISA): India co-founded the ISA, promoting solar energy adoption globally, particularly in developing countries.

In summary, India’s rapid economic growth has transformed its international role, enhancing its geopolitical influence, strengthening relationships with major global powers, and positioning it as a key player in addressing global challenges.

Summary

Geopolitical Influence through BRICS and G20
India’s founding membership in BRICS, now expanded to include new countries, represents 45% of the world’s population and 35% of global GDP, enhancing India’s economic and political influence. In 2023, India also led the G20, focusing on sustainable development and climate change.
Strengthened Trade Relations with the EU and USA
In 2022, India’s bilateral trade with the EU reached €120 billion, with both exports and imports balanced at €60 billion. India’s trade with the USA was equally significant, with exports at $76 billion, highlighting key partnerships in defence, technology, and climate change.
Global Leadership Aspirations
India is pushing for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and seeks greater influence in the World Bank and IMF to represent emerging economies better.
Environmental Initiatives and Renewable Energy Goals
India has set a renewable energy target of 500 GW by 2030 and co-founded the International Solar Alliance, demonstrating a commitment to global climate change solutions and supporting renewable energy adoption, especially in developing countries.