Former US president Barack Obama called India-US relationship as the most defining partnership of the 21st century. However, in recent years there has been friction in ties due to geopolitical and geoeconomic divergence.
Roots of Friction- Divergent Strategic Worldviews
India’s Pursuit of Strategic Autonomy vs US Alliance Model – India’s “strategic hedging” with neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war (2022-24) frustrated the US. Eg- 50% Tariff
USA’s relationship with Pakistan (recent mineral deal) weakens India’s efforts against Terrorism.
Fear of USA’s policy of Bait and Bloodletting in India-China relations
Gap between expectation and recognition – Eg- While the US promotes India as a “pillar of the Indo-Pacific strategy,” it doesn’t offer India the same status as treaty allies like Japan or Australia
Divergence in Regional Priorities – India’s immediate concerns include China, Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), whereas US priorities Pacific Ocean in QUAD.
Geoeconomic Issues – US tightening H-1B visa policies or reinstate Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).
U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan (2021) and its aftermath posed regional security concerns for India
Multilateralism issues – Eg- Disputes on data localization, intellectual property, and agricultural access under WTO
US sanctions under CAATSA threatened S-400 missile system deal and Chabahar port in Iran
Human Rights – US criticism of India’s domestic policies (e.g., on religious freedom, digital regulation, or Kashmir) is viewed by India as interference in internal affairs.
India’s National Self-Esteem and Strategic Ambitions
Strategic Autonomy and issue based partnerships based on enlightened self interest
Recognition as an independent global power – Rightful Place in comity of nations.
Permanent membership in the UN Security Council.
Technology access and defense co-production as an equal partner.
Leadership in Global South diplomacy.
Efforts to Bridge the Gap
India-US civil nuclear deal of 2008
Initiatives on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) aim for joint R&D in AI, 5G, and quantum tech.
GE-HAL jet engine co-production, semiconductor MoUs, and defense logistics agreements (LEMOA, COMCASA, BECA).
Framework agreement to expand defence cooperation over the next 10-years.
Way Forward
Balance Strategic Autonomy with Global Cooperation on shared interests – counterterrorism, climate change, and technology governance.
Engage more actively in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), promote supply chain resilience, and sustainable infrastructure partnerships.
Prioritize co-production and joint R&D in advanced defense technologies such as cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and surveillance.
A stronger India-US partnership anchored in mutual respect, collaboration, and global leadership can advance regional stability and multipolar global governance