Originally published in The Hindu on 6 January 2025.
While 2024 saw political uncertainty across the globe, India charted a broadly stable strategic course. The 2024 Indian general elections produced a third consecutive mandate for the BJP-led NDA government, though with a reduced majority that has introduced new coalition dynamics.
The Strategic Landscape for 2025
India enters 2025 with a complex set of strategic opportunities and challenges. The disengagement process at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China has made tentative progress — but the fundamental trust deficit between the two nations remains deep.
The US Dimension
The return of Donald Trump to the White House introduces significant uncertainty into US foreign policy. India will need to carefully manage its relationship with the new administration, leveraging areas of convergence on China while managing potential friction on trade.