Consolidating Bilateral Ties Between India and the United States: A Post-Galwan Study

Abstract

This paper was composed in an effort to comprehend the nature of Indo-American relations after the 2020 Galwan Clash between India and China. The paper argues that the increasing Chinese aggression left India with no choice but to respond militarily. In light of the growing asymmetry of power between India and China, which favours China, India requires foreign assistance to strengthen its defence capabilities against China. The United States is a natural choice because it has sophisticated military technology and, like India, feels threatened by China’s rise. Washington’s leadership views India as a natural ally against China in Asia. After the Galwan Clash, significant developments between Washington and New Delhi occurred, such as the QUAD revitalisation and the BECA agreement. However, bilateral relations are not immune to the challenges highlighted in this paper. If both nations collaborate, these obstacles can be overcome, and the potential of ties can be realised.