The elements of foreign policy are:
1. Geography.
2. Natural resources-minerals, food production, energy and power.
(3) Industrial establishment.
(4) Military establishment.
(5) The role of ideology, culture, history etc.
Factors determining the foreign policy of India are discussed below:
1. Political History: Although India is a young nation, its civilization is ancient. India has been a victim of a series of foreign invasions. For this reason India has decided the foreign policy of supporting the freedom struggles of other nations and to fight against imperialism.
2. Culture: The most important factor of Indian culture in the world is a single entity. The spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumb Kam (the whole world is a family for the whole population), influenced India's foreign policy. India has been trying to establish good relations with all nations, whichever group they belong to.
3. Geography: The geo-political location of a country is another important determining factor. India's location between West Asia and South East Asia is an important trade route and defence zone. The two major powers Russia and China on the north are its neighbours. The Himalayas in the north and the vast expanse of sea and ocean from part of the natural borders between India and her neighbours. Safeguarding those borders India has to make its policy accordingly.
4. Domestic Context: The foreign policy of India has been based on strong domestic consensus and support. Various pressure groups such as the chambers of commerce, health and women groups, non-resident Indians, all seek to lobby hand to influence foreign policy.
5. Economy: The nature of India's economy also plays a major role in shaping of the country's foreign policy. India needed technological help as well as financial help from the Industrial advanced countries. Her consistent support to non-aligned nations helps to receive assistance from all quarters and not washing score resources on arms bail up.
6. International political environment: The general climate prevailing in the world also influences the foreign policy of a country. India's more in Non-aligned movement (NAM) and her support to Afro-Asian countries and the United Nations efforts at peace keeping were all largely responses to the international politics of the cold war era. The changing trend in Indian foreign policy is being seen now due to the unipolar situation of the world. The United States of America and India are coming near each other. To fight against terrorism and to establish peace they are trying to maintain friendly relations.
