India’s leading newspaper The Hindu has described 2025 as a year of major foreign policy failures for the government led by Narendra Modi, marking a sharp public critique of New Delhi’s external engagement.
In a detailed analysis, the newspaper said the high expectations linked to Modi’s global image did not translate into real diplomatic gains.
It argued that symbolic gestures, personal chemistry with world leaders and strong narrative-building failed to replace actual economic, military, and diplomatic power.
According to the paper, India made ambitious promises to both domestic and international audiences without having the influence or capacity to deliver.
The analysis said these gaps became increasingly visible throughout 2025, exposing deep structural weaknesses in India’s foreign policy approach.
Strained ties with major powers
On relations with the United States, The Hindu described 2025 as India’s most difficult year in decades.
A 25 per cent tariff, restrictions linked to Russian oil imports, and tighter H-1B visa rules showed that Washington’s partnership with India remains conditional and driven by interests.
The paper also noted that India’s role in the 2025 US National Security Strategy was reduced compared to 2017.
On China and Russia, the analysis said repeated high-level meetings failed to deliver security progress along the Line of Actual Control. Investment barriers remained, while India’s regional presence stayed largely symbolic.
US pressure also forced New Delhi to soften its stance on Russian oil imports.
Regional challenges and credibility questions
The paper termed the Pahalgam false flag operation a serious security failure and said India failed to gain international diplomatic backing afterward. Silence over aircraft losses by the IAF further hurt credibility.
It also called the defence cooperation agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan a diplomatic blow, noting that even Indian analysts now describe Pakistan’s leadership as “hardline and organizationally capable.”
The analysis added that India’s relations with Bangladesh are at their lowest point in history.
Warning of a broader trend, ‘The Hindu’ said India risks shifting from claiming to be a “Vishwaguru” to portraying itself as a “Vishwa Victim,” with blame replacing reform and realism.
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