The original Great Game was a geopolitical struggle in the mid-1800s between the Russian Empire and the British, French, and Ottoman Empires over control of Central Asia.
2. How has the Russia-Ukraine war influenced a new Great Game?
The Russia-Ukraine war has triggered a new Great Game with different actors and motives, primarily involving the US, China, and Russia. The contest now mirrors the historical rivalry but with a modern geopolitical context.
3. What is India’s role in the new Great Game?
India, as a rising power and expected to be the world’s third-largest economy by 2028, plays a critical balancing role between the US and China. India asserts its independence in foreign policy and aims to leverage its strategic position in the Indian Ocean Region.
4. Why is the US displeased with India?
Washington is displeased with India for several reasons:
• Standing up to Western criticism over alleged assassinations of Indian-origin extremists on Western soil.
• Operationalizing Chabahar Port in Iran, which the US views as a pariah state.
5. How is India asserting its independence in foreign policy?
India is asserting its independence by:
• Maintaining and increasing trade with China, which became India’s largest trading partner in 2023-24.
• Managing ports in Iran, such as Chabahar Port, despite potential risks of sanctions from the US.
• Buying crude oil from Russia, securing the best deals for its energy needs.
6. What message is India sending to the US and China?
India is sending a powerful message to both Washington and Beijing that it will pursue its national interests independently. This includes trading with China, managing strategic ports, and sourcing energy from Russia, all of which underline India’s strategic autonomy.
7. What are the implications of India’s actions on its foreign relations?
India’s actions highlight its emergence as a key player in global geopolitics, balancing relations with major powers while safeguarding its strategic interests. This approach reflects a shift from past foreign policy inhibitions to a more assertive and independent stance.
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