UPSC Notes

India's Multilateral Diplomacy and UN Security Council

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

This concept is crucial for understanding India's foreign policy, its global aspirations, and the ongoing challenges of international institutional reform, particularly within the United Nations system.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is the primary global body responsible for maintaining international peace and security. India actively participates in multilateral forums, including the UN, to advance its foreign policy objectives and advocate for a reformed global order, including a permanent seat in the UNSC.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

UNSC Composition

5 permanent members (P5) with veto power, 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.

India's Aspiration

Seeks permanent membership, citing its population, economy, democratic values, and contributions to peacekeeping.

Current Bid

Campaigning for a non-permanent seat for the 2028-29 tenure.

Reform Efforts

India is part of groups like G4 (with Brazil, Germany, Japan) advocating for UNSC expansion.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaInternational Relations

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
United Nations Security Council (UNSC)Primary global body for peace and security
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Multi-statement analysis

Prelims angle: Factual recall

Quick revision

  • UNSC: 5 permanent, 10 non-permanent members.
  • India's goal: Permanent seat, greater global role.
  • Current bid: Non-permanent seat for 2028-29.
  • Part of G4 for UNSC reform.
  • Reflects India's multilateral foreign policy.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

International Relations

EAM Jaishankar to embark on 6-nation tour from July 5

05 Jul 2026 · India's active pursuit of a non-permanent UNSC seat and its broader advocacy for UNSC reforms underscore its commitment to multilateralism and its ambition for a greater role in global governance.

Read article

Related topics

Current topic

India's Multilateral Diplomacy and UN Security Council

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 8 linked questions on India's Multilateral Diplomacy and UN Security Council in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.