Recent events point to India's declining smart power in its neighbourhood and extended neighbourhood. Examine the factors that could explain these changes. 10 marks

Recent events point to India’s declining smart power in its neighbourhood and extended neighbourhood. Examine the factors that could explain these changes. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/needed-a-map-for-indias-foreign-policy/article32206877.ece In the intro, mention the declining relation and influence in Nepal, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Iran etc. In the body mention various factors like increasing alignment with the U.S., domestic politics like CAA, overambitious moves etc. Conclude by mentioning the need to have a strategic plan to maintain relations with the neighbourhood.