Relationship with the Soviet Union under Indira Gandhi

After assuming office in 1966, Indira Gandhi not only strengthened her position domestically but also played a significant role in international affairs. During this period, India faced threats from both China and Pakistan, and the USA openly supported Pakistan. These geopolitical circumstances led India and the Soviet Union to move closer in their relationship.

Factors Strengthening Ties:

1. Common Threats: India was under threat from both China and Pakistan. The shared challenges and security concerns brought India and the Soviet Union closer.
2. Soviet Support for Indian Policies: Indira Gandhi's bold decisions, such as the abolition of privy purses, nationalization of banks, and the establishment of a socialist pattern of society, resonated with the Soviet Union's own ideological leanings.
3. Economic Cooperation: By the 1970s, the Soviet Union emerged as the second-largest buyer of Indian goods. They also assisted India in setting up heavy industries, which was crucial for India's economic development.
4. Military Support: The Soviet Union supplied India with sophisticated military equipment, further strengthening India's defense capabilities.
5. Support on Kashmir Issue: The Soviet Union consistently supported India's stance on the Kashmir issue in the United Nations, providing India with diplomatic backing.

The relationship between India and the Soviet Union during Indira Gandhi's tenure was characterized by mutual interests, shared ideological leanings, and strategic cooperation in various domains. This partnership played a pivotal role in shaping India's foreign policy and securing its interests on the global stage.

Indo-Soviet Treaty of 1971

The Indo-Soviet Treaty of 1971 marked a significant milestone in the relationship between India and the Soviet Union. This treaty, signed for a period of 20 years, formalized and elevated the rapidly developing friendship and cooperation between the two nations. It represented a new and more advanced stage in their mutual relations.

Key Aspects of the Treaty:

1. Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation: The treaty emphasized the values of peace, friendship, and cooperation, setting the tone for the bilateral relations between India and the Soviet Union.
2. Endorsement of Nuclear Test: When India conducted a nuclear test in Pokhran in 1974, most of the established nuclear powers criticized the action. However, France and the Soviet Union maintained a steady silence. This silence was interpreted as an endorsement of India's position on the matter.
3. Support for Bilateral Resolution: The Soviet Union welcomed and supported the Shimla Agreement, which aimed to resolve outstanding issues between India and Pakistan through bilateral negotiations.
4. Indian Ocean as a Zone of Peace: The Soviet Union also appreciated Mrs. Gandhi's stance on making the Indian Ocean a zone of peace, indicating their alignment on certain strategic issues.
5. Collaboration in Science, Technology, and Trade: The relationship between India and the Soviet Union extended beyond diplomatic and strategic matters. It also encompassed significant collaboration in the fields of science, technology, and trade.

The Indo-Soviet Treaty of 1971, along with subsequent developments, solidified the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. It also highlighted the shared values and interests that underpinned their relationship during this period.

Indo-U.S. Relations during Indira Gandhi's Leadership

During Indira Gandhi's tenure, the relationship between India and the United States underwent significant shifts and challenges. Here are some key aspects:

1. Deterioration of Relations (First Phase):
• China-Pakistan Relations: The U.S. sought to build closer ties with China during this period, which raised concerns in India. The normalization of relations between the U.S. and China had implications for India's security dynamics, as it was dealing with border disputes with both China and Pakistan.
• Bangladesh Crisis: The U.S. sided with Pakistan during the Bangladesh Liberation War, which strained relations with India. India's active involvement in the conflict further contributed to the tension.
2. Diego Garcia Dispute:
• Strategic Naval Base: The U.S. decision to develop Diego Garcia as a naval base in the Indian Ocean was met with strong opposition from India. India viewed this development as a manifestation of superpower rivalry in the region, which could lead to increased tensions.
3. Shifts in Relations (Second Phase):
• IMF Loans and Fuel for Tarapur Plant: During the later phase of Indira Gandhi's leadership, the U.S. provided support to India by facilitating loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and supplying fuel for the Tarapur Nuclear Plant. This signaled a thaw in bilateral relations.
4. Cooperation in Trade, Science, and Technology:
• Increased Collaboration: There was a notable increase in cooperation between India and the U.S. in various fields, including trade, science, and technology. This indicated a positive shift in the relationship.

Overall, the relationship between India and the U.S. during Indira Gandhi's leadership was characterized by a mix of challenges and opportunities. The first phase saw strains due to geopolitical considerations, while the second phase witnessed efforts to build cooperation in various areas.