Archive · 6 Jan 2026
India's 2025: Hits and Misses in Neighborhood Policy
In 2025, India tried to be friends with its neighboring countries by visiting them, helping with big projects, and giving money for development.
They had some successes, like making ports and railways, and helping with disasters.
But there were also challenges, like Bangladesh being angry at India and other countries like China and Pakistan trying to be friends with India's neighbors too.
India also had a tough time with Pakistan, as Pakistan got more support from other countries.
Overall, it was a year with both good and bad things for India's foreign policy.
India focused on its 'Neighborhood First' policy in 2025, with Prime Minister Modi visiting Bhutan, Maldives, and Sri Lanka.
India engaged with various governments in the region, despite some having anti-Indian sentiments, through diplomatic talks and development assistance.
Connectivity initiatives like the Greater Male Connectivity Project in the Maldives and railway links with Bhutan made progress.
India provided financial aid and disaster relief to neighbors like the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, but struggled to prevent them from diversifying their international relationships.
India's policy of isolating Pakistan faced setbacks as Pakistan gained diplomatic support from countries like China, Türkiye, and the US.
- Who
- India and its neighboring countries (Bangladesh, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan)
- What
- India's foreign policy successes and challenges in 2025, including diplomatic engagements, connectivity initiatives, and development assistance
- When
- Throughout 2025, with specific events mentioned in May and October 2025
- Where
- South Asian region, including India and its neighboring countries
- Why
- To analyze India's 'Neighborhood First' policy and its effectiveness in 2025
- Primary Category
- GOVERNMENT
- Secondary Category
- Foreign Policy
- Tertiary Category
- South Asia
- Quaternary Category
- Diplomatic Relations