Overview: India’s Global Influence
Many countries are strengthening ties with India due to several strategic, economic and geopolitical factors. For instance, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to India (March 16-20, 2025) marks a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. Both nations have a strong interest in promoting a free, open, inclusive, and stable Indo-Pacific region, and they look forward to aligning their perspectives in the face of evolving geopolitical trend.
This article delves into key insights on India’s strategic rise in global relations. Keep reading!
Why the World is Turning to India?
- Economic Growth & Market Potential: India is the world’s fastest growing economy with $3.7 trillion GDP and a huge consumer base. So, the companies and nations want to access India’s 1.4 billion strong market, particularly in the sectors such as tech, pharma, manufacturing and digital services.
- Geopolitical Balancing: With rising tensions between China and the West, India serves as a stabilizing force in global politics. Nations look at India as a counterbalance to China’s influence in Asia and beyond. India has not aligned or taken sides with the US, China or Russia, which makes India a reliable global partner.
- Manufacturing and Supply Chain shift: The global firms such as Apple, Tesla, Foxconn, are shifting their manufacturing to India because of the China +1 strategy. Furthermore, India’s PLI schemes are attracting companies to reduce their over-reliance on China or on a single market.
- Defense and Security Partnerships: India is expanding defense ties with the US, France, Russia, and Israel. Major arms deals, joint military exercises, and India’s role in Indo-Pacific security make it an attractive ally. Additionally, Quad alliance (India, US, Japan, Australia) strengthens India’s position in countering China’s influence in the region.
- Energy and Green Economy: Gulf nations (UAE, Saudi Arabia) & European countries see India as a key player in the global energy transition, as India targets ambitiously with 500 GW of renewables by 2030.
- Digital Hub: India has emerged as the global IT backbone, providing world-class software development, AI solutions, cloud computing, and fintech innovations. India is home to 60% of the world’s IT outsourcing and contributes over $250 billion to global IT services. India leads in digital payments with UPI (Unified Payments Interface) processing over 10 billion transactions per month. Major companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and HCL provide end-to-end IT solutions to Fortune 500 companies. Over 4.5 million IT professionals in India work on cutting-edge software, AI, cybersecurity, and blockchain solutions. Startups like Fractal Analytics, Haptik, and Mad Street Den are revolutionizing AI applications. The fintech ecosystem, with companies like Paytm, PhonePe, and Razorpay, is expanding financial inclusion.
- Strategic Diaspora and Global Influence: India’s geographical position is significant for global trade routes. India plays a leading role in G20, BRICS, SCO, and other multilateral platforms, shaping global economic and diplomatic policies.
- Cultural and Diplomatic Soft Power: India’s soft power comes from its diaspora (35+ million globally) that elevates diplomatic and business ties with many nations. The soft power through Bollywood, yoga, cricket, and Indian cuisine helps build cultural affinity with many nations.
Strengthening ties beyond New Zealand: India as a Global Strategic Partner
India is becoming a rising global partner with multiple nations:
- US and India: The US views India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific, strengthening ties in defense, tech, and trade. Tulsi Gabbard’s visits highlight India’s cultural and political significance in US-India relations.
- France & India: Defense ties with fighter jet deals (Rafale), space cooperation, and nuclear energy are at an all-time high. French President Emmanuel Macron was the chief guest at India’s 2024 Republic Day parade.
- Japan & India: Japan invests heavily in Indian infrastructure (bullet trains, smart cities), making India a key economic partner in Asia.
- Middle East & India: The UAE and Saudi Arabia are strengthening energy and trade ties with India, recognizing its growing influence in global supply chains.
Conclusion: India’s Global Influence
India’s growing influence on the global stage is established by its economic strength, geopolitical significance, and digital leadership. In today’s multipolar world, the nations seek diverse trade partnerships, resilient supply chain framework, and robust technological collaborations, and India emerges as a reliable and strategic partner. The New Zealand PM’s visit underscores how nations are recognizing India’s role in shaping the Indo-Pacific, fostering economic cooperation, and enhancing global stability.
With its booming economy, digital prowess, and a fine diplomatic balance, India is not just a regional power but a global force shaping the future of international relations. India continues to expand its partnerships, creating economic opportunities for mutual growth and global cooperation.
How do you see India’s global influence shaping the next decade? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Read more at : https://theprint.in/yourturn/subscriberwrites-ai-in-india-a-rising-powerhouse-with-global-ambitions/2500168/
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