International Relations: India and Its Immediate Neighbors

Understanding India's foreign policy is crucial for grasping the geopolitical dynamics of South Asia. The relationships India maintains with its neighbors shape global trade, security, and stability. This course provides a foundational understanding of the historical context, current challenges, and strategic frameworks defining India's international relations with its immediate neighborhood. You will gain the ability to analyze current events through a geopolitical lens. What you'll learn: * Understand the foundational theories of international relations applied specifically to the South Asian context. * Analyze the historical evolution and current status of India’s bilateral relationships with key neighbors such as Pakistan, China, Nepal, and Bangladesh. * Examine critical issues defining regional stability, including border disputes, water-sharing agreements, and cross-border security challenges. * Evaluate the strategic implications of major connectivity projects and the growing influence of external powers in the neighborhood. * Apply diplomatic frameworks to practice reading and interpreting foreign policy statements and official communiqués. The course begins by establishing key terminology and historical context, then moves into detailed case studies of major bilateral relationships, concluding with an overview of regional multilateral institutions and future challenges. This course is designed for absolute beginners interested in diplomacy, political science, or regional studies. No prior knowledge of international relations or Indian foreign policy is required. Start building your expertise in South Asian geopolitics today.