Abstract

Indias foreign policy has undergone significant transformation in the twenty-first century due to the emergence of a multipolar world order characterized by the rise of new power centers shifting geopolitical alignments and increasing economic interdependence. In this evolving international environment the concept of strategic autonomy has become a central pillar of Indias external engagement. Strategic autonomy refers to a states ability to pursue independent policy choices without excessive dependence on any single power bloc. Indias commitment to strategic autonomy enables it to balance relations with major global actors such as the United States Russia China the European Union and emerging regional powers while safeguarding its national interests. This research examines the evolution of Indias strategic autonomy its role in shaping foreign policy decisions and the opportunities and challenges presented by the contemporary multipolar order. The study argues that strategic autonomy r