How does political leadership of a nation affect its foreign policy? Explain this with the help of examples from India’s foreign policy

Political leadership of a nation reflects its foreign policy. This can be explained with the following examples from India's foreign policy:

a) India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru played an extremely important role in setting the national agenda. He was a major influence in the formulation and implementation of India's foreign policy from 1946 to 1964.

b) The objectives of his foreign policy were three fold- sovereignty, protection of territorial integrity and the promotion of economic development.

c) He wished to achieve these through the policy of nonalignment. This was frowned upon by a few leaders who favoured a pro-US foreign policy.

d) His influence was considerable and he kept a distance from both the superpowers

e) Many prominent leaders have supported him in this policy. Lal Bahadur Shastri gave him immense support during this. He gave the slogan of Jai Jawan Jai Kisan during the 1965 war with Pakistan and the issue of food shortage in India.

f) Indira Gandhi brought a Revolutionary change in India's foreign policy. She signed a Treaty of friendship in 1971 wit the Soviet Union. This decision was heavily criticized by many. However, this was done in the backdrop of the crisis in East Pakistan. But in reality, this did not affect its good relations with the US or any other country. However, India remained non aligned throughout the cold war.

g) In 1977 Janta Party came in the power. It announced that it would also follow a genuine form of non-alignment. It entered into a decision to make a better relationship with China and US.

h) In 1990, Russia lost its global importance. India's foreign policy then shifted toward a pro-US strategy.

i) Sincere attempts were also made to restore relations with Pakistan. Successful development also took place in this regard.

j) Currently, under the leadership of Narendra Modi, India has formed successful ties with many countries. It is also trying to form a balance between the US and Russia.

Political leadership greatly influences the foreign policy of a country. It can either build a strong patriotic country or it can build a weak and divided country. It can also build a strong collision buy fostering common interests or build a powerful military and can even strengthen its technological abilities.