Key Drivers of Soviet Foreign Policy Towards India

Three main factors shaped Soviet foreign policy towards India from 1955 to 1991. The spread of communism acted as a domestic political ideology influencing both nations, though India remained non-communist while adopting socialist elements under Jawaharlal Nehru. The Cold War rivalry with the United States also played a critical role, as India’s significance grew as a non-aligned country that could counterbalance U.S. influence in Asia. Lastly, the Sino-Soviet relationship impacted India’s standing, especially after the 1962 war, leading the Soviet Union to view India as a partner against a common Chinese adversary.