India's Neighbors: Geopolitics, History, and Current Relations

India shares some of the world's most complex and strategically vital borders. Understanding its foreign policy approach to immediate neighbors is crucial for grasping regional stability and global power dynamics. This course provides a structured analytical framework for understanding the historical context, economic drivers, and current geopolitical challenges that shape India’s relationships with countries across South Asia and beyond. What you'll learn: * Understand the foundational principles and historical evolution of India's neighborhood policy and strategic culture. * Analyze the bilateral relations with key neighbors including Pakistan, China, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, focusing on areas of cooperation and strategic friction. * Examine the role of economic diplomacy, trade agreements, and major connectivity initiatives in shaping regional interdependence. * Apply concepts of regionalism and multilateral engagement through forums such as SAARC and BIMSTEC. * Identify current security challenges, including border management, maritime security, and non-traditional threats in the neighborhood. We begin by defining the core concepts of foreign policy and strategic environment before moving into detailed country-by-country analysis. The course concludes by exploring India's role in contemporary regional forums and global strategic competition. This course is designed for absolute beginners interested in international relations, geopolitics, and Indian policy. No prior knowledge of diplomacy or area studies is required. Start reading today to unlock a deeper understanding of South Asian geopolitics.