The ongoing Ukraine-Russia War has been one of the most significant geopolitical events of recent years.
Since its outbreak in 2022, the conflict has had far-reaching consequences for the global political order, and India has been no exception to its impact.
While India is not directly involved in the conflict, it has been closely following the developments and has been a vocal proponent of a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Moreover, India’s geopolitical rise has been catalysed by the conflict, and this article will explore the reasons behind it.
The conflict has brought to the forefront the importance of India’s strategic position. As a rising power, India’s influence has been steadily growing, and its strategic location at the crossroads of East and West has become increasingly important in the context of the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
India’s Diplomatic Efforts During Ukraine-Russia War
India’s role as a bridge between the two regions has been highlighted, and its diplomatic efforts have been appreciated by both sides. This has put India in a unique position, and its growing influence has not gone unnoticed.
India successfully rescued almost all its citizens, mostly students, from parts of Ukraine where violent actions were already underway.
The world was shocked when India rescued students even from war-ravaged Kherson, from which even powerful Western countries were unable to retrieve their citizens.
When western leaders were struggling to rescue their citizens, India had flown more than 90 flights, rescuing not only Indians but also international citizens.
Though there is a huge dissent amongst the western countries about India not choosing sides, the conflict has highlighted the importance of India’s relations with Europe.
India has long been a strategic partner of the European Union, and the conflict has brought the two sides even closer. India has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis, and its efforts have been appreciated by European leaders.
This has strengthened India’s position as a key player in the global arena and has opened up new avenues for cooperation between India and Europe.
The conflict has had a significant impact on India’s energy security. Russia is a major supplier of energy to Europe, and the conflict has disrupted the supply of gas, causing prices to skyrocket.
This has led to a renewed focus on alternative sources of energy, and India has been quick to respond.
India Emerging as a Leader in Renewable Energy
The country has been investing in renewable energy sources and has been exploring new partnerships to secure its energy needs. This has opened up new opportunities for India, and it has emerged as a leader in the global push towards renewable energy.
This led to a huge outcry in the West, with people questioning India’s integrity. Ukranian policy makers quoted “Russian oil has Ukranian blood in it…” and criticised India for ‘funding’ the Russian Invasion.
All western media houses launched attacks on the Indian Government, and even politicians took an active step in spreading the Anti-India propaganda. But our External Affairs ministry, led by Shri S Jaishankar was not ready to be bullied this time by the West.
He resounded the promise of looking out for the best interest of the Indian citizens throughout his tours.
India’s response to the conflict has been notable for its maturity and balance. Unlike many other countries, India has refrained from taking sides and has instead focused on promoting peace and stability in the region.
This has won India praise from both sides and has strengthened its reputation as a responsible global player. S. Jaishankar has been instrumental in shaping India’s response to the conflict, and his befitting replies to European journalists have been particularly noteworthy.
India’s Commitment to a Peaceful Resolution for the War
S. Jaishankar has emphasised India’s commitment to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity and has called for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
The conflict has highlighted the need for India to build its military capabilities. The conflict has shown that the world is becoming more complex and unpredictable, and India needs to be prepared for any eventuality.
India has been investing heavily in its defence capabilities and has been working to modernise its armed forces. This has helped India to project its power in the region and has enhanced its status as a major player in the global arena.
In conclusion, the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict has had a catalytic effect on India’s geopolitical rise. It has highlighted the importance of India’s strategic position, energy security, and relations with Europe.
It has also showcased India’s maturity and balance in responding to the crisis and has emphasised the need for India to build its military capabilities. As India continues to rise as a global power, it will need to navigate an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
However, the Ukraine-Russia conflict has shown that India is up to the challenge and has cemented its position as a key player in the global arena.
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