This seminar offers an introduction to India's foreign and defense policy. Students will begin to understand the world from the point of view of Indian national security planners. We will examine first their strategic context: the multiple, sometimes contradictory ideas that motivate policy goals; the historical background on India's role in the region; and the structural limits on Indian power. We will then trace the evolution of India's most pressing strategic challenges: the causes and outcomes of India's wars against Pakistan and China; the threats and crises of more recent years, from Kashmir to Ladakh; and how India sees security threats and opportunities across the wider region, as its national interests expand. Finally, we will examine the key planks of India's strategic responses: the halting pace of military reforms; the blossoming relationship with the United States; and the partnerships that may see India emerge as a global player in coming years.
3-4 units · Letter (ABCD/NP)
This seminar offers an introduction to India's foreign and defense policy. Students will begin to understand the world from the point of view of Indian national security planners. We will examine first their strategic context: the multiple, sometimes contradictory ideas that motivate policy goals; the historical background on India's role in the region; and the structural limits on Indian power. We will then trace the evolution of India's most pressing strategic challenges: the causes and outcomes of India's wars against Pakistan and China; the threats and crises of more recent years, from Kashmir to Ladakh; and how India sees security threats and opportunities across the wider region, as its national interests expand. Finally, we will examine the key planks of India's strategic responses: the halting pace of military reforms; the blossoming relationship with the United States; and the partnerships that may see India emerge as a global player in coming years.
Offered in Winter 2027 at Stanford University.