ABSTRACT
Indian foreign policy has undergone a remarkable transformation since Narendra Modi's government came to office in May 2014, something reflected in the academic and policy debates that have emerged in the last few years. The Modi government has been successful in leaving its unique imprint in a short period, making clear its objective of positioning India as a leading global player. This chapter examines the rapidly evolving Indian diplomatic style as well as substantive shifts under Modi's premiership. It is likely to have significant implications for the conduct of Indian diplomacy and the broader role of India in global politics in the coming years. In its own neighbourhood in the Indo-Pacific, India is now perceived as a credible balancer as China's maritime assertiveness has grown, creating space for Indian diplomacy. Modi has been able to give not only a new style to the conduct of Indian diplomacy but also a new sense of purpose to Indian foreign policy.
