India's Neighborhood Policy and Regional Geopolitics

Understanding India's foreign policy begins with a deep dive into its immediate neighborhood. These relationships drive regional security, economic stability, and global engagement. This course provides a structured, analytical framework for understanding the complex dynamics between India and its nine key neighboring countries, equipping you with the knowledge to assess current geopolitical challenges. What you'll learn: * Understand the historical and geographical foundations influencing India's bilateral relationships with key states like China and Pakistan. * Analyze the strategic imperatives and evolving security challenges, including border disputes and maritime cooperation strategies. * Examine the role of economic diplomacy, trade agreements, and connectivity projects in shaping contemporary regional ties. * Compare and contrast India’s major foreign policy doctrines, such as the Neighborhood First policy, across different contexts. * Apply critical reading and analytical skills to synthesize complex geopolitical information into structured arguments. The course begins by defining key concepts in international relations and regional studies, followed by detailed, country-by-country analysis focusing on political, economic, and strategic dimensions. We conclude with an examination of contemporary regional challenges and multilateral cooperation frameworks. This course is designed for absolute beginners in international relations or anyone seeking a rigorous, foundational understanding of South Asian geopolitics. No prior knowledge of diplomacy or foreign policy is required. Start building your expertise in regional foreign policy today.