Subcontinental Drift

India's rise to major power status is one of the most significant shifts in the current international order, yet Rajesh Basrur argues that domestic limits are holding the country back. His book examines the recurring pattern of hesitation, postponement and detour in Indian foreign policy, and asks how these tendencies could slow the country's ascent.

Basrur applies neoclassical realist theory to this pattern, which he calls policy drift. He looks at why it keeps appearing and what it means for India's pursuit of great power standing. Four case studies anchor the analysis: the strategic partnership with the United States, relations with Sri Lanka, India's nuclear strategy, and cross-border terrorism. From these cases he distinguishes two sources of indecision. Involuntary drift stems from how domestic material power is distributed, while voluntary drift arises from a shortfall in responsibility.

Beyond the case studies, the author proposes a new theoretical basis for connecting India's domestic and foreign policymaking and adds several refinements to neoclassical realism. The book also offers guidance for policymakers who want to reduce the costs of drift, and it considers how the constraints on India's foreign and domestic security decisions will shape its rise.