Archive · 30 Jan 2026
Critics question India's foreign policy under Modi
The article criticizes India's foreign policy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, arguing that despite claims of global influence, India has struggled to assert its power.
The US has imposed tariffs and tightened immigration rules, while Russia has recruited Indian citizens for the Ukraine war.
China has increased its trade deficit with India and harassed Indian citizens.
Europe has embarrassed Indian leaders despite trade deals.
Domestically, India faces poor governance, environmental issues, and ongoing conflicts like in Manipur.
The article suggests that Modi's leadership has not lived up to its promises, leading to a loss of ambition and standing both globally and at home.
India has reportedly unwound its involvement in the Chabahar port project due to US sanctions threats.
The US has imposed prohibitive tariffs on Indian goods and tightened immigration rules, detaining Indian nationals.
Hundreds of Indian citizens have been recruited as contract fighters for Russia's war in Ukraine, with the Modi government providing little help.
China's trade deficit with India has increased significantly, and it has harassed Indian citizens, with India's response being ineffective.
Europe has embarrassed Indian leaders despite trade deals and a Republic Day invite, with foreign leaders defining and explaining Indian policy.
- Who
- Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar.
- What
- Criticism of India's foreign policy and domestic governance.
- When
- Ongoing issues with recent focus on current administration's actions.
- Where
- India and its relations with the US, Russia, China, Europe, and neighboring countries.
- Why
- Critics argue that India's foreign policy is hollow and domestic governance is poor, leading to a loss of global standing and internal issues.
- Chabahar Port Project
- India has reportedly unwound its involvement due to US sanctions threats.
- US Relations
- Prohibitive tariffs on Indian goods and tightened immigration rules.
- Russia-Ukraine War
- Hundreds of Indian citizens reportedly recruited as contract fighters.
- China Relations
- Trade deficit with China increased from $37.8 billion in 2014 to $116.1 billion in 2025.
- Europe Relations
- India's trade deal and Republic Day invite to Europe, but leaders still embarrass Indian officials.
- Domestic Issues
- Poor governance, policy driven by optics, and erosion of trust in state institutions.
- Manipur Conflict
- Ongoing violence with prime minister's evasive silence.
- Economic and Environmental Issues
- Air pollution, contaminated water, and environmental disasters remain unresolved.