India’s external relations — Important Questions

Preserve hard-earned sovereignty, Protect territorial integrity, Promote rapid economic development

The three major objectives of Nehru's foreign policy were: (1) to preserve the hard-earned sovereignty, (2) protect territorial integrity, and (3) promote rapid economic development. Nehru aimed to achieve these objectives through the strategy of non-alignment, avoiding military alliances while focusing on India's core national interests.

1962

The Sino-Indian War took place in 1962 when China launched a swift and massive invasion in October on both disputed regions (Aksai Chin and NEFA/Arunachal Pradesh). The war occurred while the world's attention was focused on the Cuban Missile Crisis involving the superpowers.

Aksai Chin in Ladakh region, NEFA (now Arunachal Pradesh)

The main border dispute between India and China was about two areas: Aksai Chin in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, and NEFA (North Eastern Frontier Agency, now Arunachal Pradesh). China had occupied Aksai Chin and built a strategic road there between 1957-1959, and both these areas became focal points of the 1962 conflict.

1959

The Dalai Lama crossed over into the Indian border and sought asylum in 1959, which was granted by India. This happened after an armed uprising in Tibet against China's occupation in 1958 was suppressed by Chinese forces. The Chinese government strongly protested against India's decision to grant asylum.