The basic principles of Indian Foreign Policy are as follows:

(a) Non-Alignment: India’s foreign policy has been based on the principle of non-alignment. This policy means refusal to accept any definite commitment or to join a system of military pacts or alliances. It implies a policy of peace. It is based on the belief that war should be avoided. Nehru declared, In the sphere of foreign affairs. India will follow an independent policy, keeping away from the politics of groups aligned against one another. India is also a leading member of the NAM.

(b) Opposition to Imperialism and Colonialism: Since India itself remained a victim of British imperialism, it has always opposed all forms of imperialism and colonialism. It has supported the cause of the exploited nations against the colonial powers. It popularized feelings and movements against imperialism. It has defended the rights of Indonesia, Namibia. Bangladesh etc. to become Independent nations.

(c) Faith in United Nations of Organisation: India has great faith in the UNO. It is a founder member of the UNO. India stands for the maintenance of international peace and security through the efforts of the UNO. It has always actively participated in all the activities of the UNO. India looks upon the UNO as an important instrument for bringing about a reduction of tensions and the establishment of honourable peace among the nations of the world.

(d) Opposition to apartheid and racial discrimination: India realized that racial discrimination is more dangerous than war itself. It has, therefore, consistently raised its voice against discrimination on the basis of race, religion, caste, colour and sex. It openly condemned South Africa for its policy of apartheid’.

(e) Panchsheel: The term panchsheel is associated with the foreign policy of India. It is based on five principles of international conduct. These principles were enunciated in the agreement of friendship between India and China in 1954. 

The principles are:

• Mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity’ and sovereignty. 
• Non-aggression. 
• Non-interference in internal affairs. 
• Mutual benefit and equality. 
• Peaceful co-existence.

(f) Tie with Commonwealth: Although India got its independence from British imperialism. India decided to remain within the Commonwealth of Nations. It is made up of Britain and other countries which had once been its colonies. Traditionally. India had many economic ties with UK and other member countries of Common wealth Association to get financial aid.

(g) Disarmament: Another essential concern for peace in India’s foreign policy has been arms control, disarmament and related matters, from the very beginning, India has advocated the prohibition of nuclear weapons and check on the proliferation of all kinds of weapons in the United Nations and other forums. In general, a major objective of India’s foreign policy has been comprehensive disarmament.

(h) Sympathy towards divided countries: Partition of India and Pakistan due to divide and rale policy of British in 1947, resulted in terrible communal riots, enormous suffering of people who moved out of their homes and had to begin their life again as refugees. Because of the bitter experience of this incident, India is sympathetic towards divided countries of the world.

(i) Affinity towards Afro-Asian countries: Though India has the relations with all countries of the world, it has special affinity towards the countries in Asia and Africa. India supported the freedom struggle of African countries and Nelson Mandela to become the first black leader as a President. India’s role is significant in the formation of ASEAN, SAARC as regional organisations to promote the regional interests.

(j) Against cold war: Cold war began with the formation of two power blocs at the end of II world war viz., US and USSR. Rivalry between them resulted in the emergence of many military alliances. 

Ex: NATO, ANZUS. SEATO. CENTO. As a leader of NAM, it stayed away from the two blocs. Hence India is emphasizing to end cold war and to restore world peace.