While systemic instability in the international order can benefit rising powers, it can also create unforeseen and unintended consequences, especially if these powers end up on the wrong side as and when order and stability return to international politics.

Given the instability and indeterminacy of the current international system, India, as a key rising power with global ambitions, must make its strategic choices carefully. This is even more important because it is perhaps the first time in independent India’s history that it has the opportunity and ability to help create a new global order, and perhaps even secure a seat at the high table of international politics.

The current instability in the global order is neither India’s making, nor can it alter it. However, India can choose the manner of its engagement with this instability and potentially influence outcomes in its favour. If so, what should be some of the fundamental tenets of India’s engagement with the current instability in the global order? Let me outline five broad strategies for India that I believe will result in the least costly geopolitical outcomes for the country.

Instability and indeterminacy call for hedging one’s bets rather than revealing one’s cards. Such a strategy would avoid committing to any specific side in geopolitical competitions among rival powers or blocs, given........

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