In recent years, India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has demonstrated a firm stance in its diplomatic relations, particularly with the United States under President Donald Trump. This assertive approach has garnered worldwide respect for Modi and highlighted India's growing influence on the global stage.

Modi's government has shown a willingness to stand its ground on issues of trade, defense, and international sovereignty, signaling that India will not be easily swayed by external pressures, even from powerful nations. This resolve has been particularly evident in response to tariff threats and demands for access to India's agricultural and dairy markets.

One instance of India's firm stance was its refusal to abandon Russian oil to satisfy Washington's posturing. Despite pressure from the U.S., India has maintained its sovereign choices and protected its red lines, including safeguarding the interests of its farmers, dairy workers, and fishermen. This unwavering commitment to its own interests has solidified India's resolve and demonstrated that capitulation only invites more bullying.

Furthermore, India has avoided becoming a prop in Trump's media stunts, learning from past experiences where the U.S. president made announcements without actual agreements, leaving other countries in difficult positions. This cautious approach reflects a determination to protect India's interests and avoid being manipulated for political gain.

India's strengthened relationships with Russia and China, both bilaterally and at forums like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), have also signaled a shift in its foreign policy. Visuals of PM Modi and Russia's Putin engaging in candid conversations and taking car rides together have likely been noted by the U.S.. At the SCO meet, Modi sent a clear message that India will not bow to pressure, reflecting the growing confidence of nations that respect the authority of the U.S. president but reject the idea that he rules the world.

Despite the tensions, there have been signs of a tempered tone from the Trump administration recently. Trump himself has stated that the U.S. gets along with India very well and expressed respect for Modi and the Indian people. This shift in tone may be attributed to criticism Trump faced for jeopardizing the carefully built India-U.S. ties.

India's diplomatic resilience has been further highlighted by visits from Singaporean PM Lawrence Wong and German FM Johann Wadephul. These visits underscore India's ability to leverage diplomacy to strengthen trade and defense partnerships while asserting its self-respect and independence.

Madhav Nalapat, Editorial Director at TSG, noted that India is focusing on double-digit growth and needs to access different markets and sources of materials at the best possible price. He also pointed out that Prime Minister Modi did not participate in the Chinese military parade, sending a message that the Indo-Pacific should be free, open, and inclusive.

Overall, India's firm stance against pressure, its commitment to its own interests, and its growing global influence have contributed to Prime Minister Modi winning worldwide respect. This approach has solidified India's position as a key player in global geopolitics and demonstrated its willingness to take on the responsibility of being a central pole.