Page 52 - NIS English 1-15 June, 2026

Cover Story
Foreign Policy
Years
of Vikas Yatra

India Shining on the Global Stage

Over the past decade, under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, India’s foreign policy has not only expanded beyond
its traditional boundaries but has also redefined the country’s role on the global stage. Amidst a changing international
landscape, a multipolar world order, and emerging geopolitical challenges, India has strengthened its diplomatic identity by
adopting a balanced, proactive, and strategic approach. From prioritizing relations with neighboring nations to deepening
partnerships with global powers, India’s foreign policy has played a pivotal role in safeguarding national interests while
simultaneously promoting global peace, stability, and cooperation...

Free Trade Agreements A Credible Voice for Developing Nations
n India has redefined the trajectory of global n India emerged as a credible voice for developing nations
trade, paving the way for a new era of during the COP26 summit in Glasgow and the COP27
Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). summit in Sharm El-Sheikh.

n Over the past few years, India has
significantly expanded the scope of its Vaccine Maitri
Free Trade Agreements. To date, a total
of nine FTAs have been concluded with
38 countries. This initiative commenced in
2021 with the India-Mauritius agreement.

G20 Presidency: Cham-
pioning ‘One Earth, One
Family, One Future
n From December 1, 2022, to November 30,
2023, India’s G20 Presidency marked the
beginning of a significant chapter in global
diplomacy.
n The 18th G20 Leaders’ Summit, held n During the COVID-19 crisis, India
at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on launched the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative as a
September 9–10, 2023, witnessed the testament to its human-centric diplomacy.
participation of 20 member nations, nine
invited countries, and 14 international n Since January 2021, India has provided
organizations. over 301.2 million vaccine doses to
99 countries and two United Nations
n India hosted over 200 meetings across bodies.
60 cities, attended by more than 100,000
delegates. n This swift and comprehensive
assistance reinforced India’s image as a
reliable partner for global health and a
compassionate voice from the Global
South.
50 countries were gifted

Over 1.51 crore vaccine doses.