Journal of Contemporary Politics

Abstract

While Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is predominantly recognized for his seminal role in drafting the Indian Constitution and championing social justice, his perspectives on India’s foreign policy have remained relatively underexplored in academic discourse. This study revisits Ambedkar’s lesser-known yet intellectually robust contributions to India’s international outlook, situating his views within the broader framework of strategic pragmatism. Contrary to the dominant doctrine of non-alignment, Ambedkar advocated for a realist and interest-driven foreign policy grounded in the principles of national sovereignty, reciprocal diplomacy, and geopolitical foresight. Through a qualitative analysis of his speeches, parliamentary interventions, and writings complemented by relevant secondary sources this research highlights Ambedkar’s critiques of ideological rigidity and his forward-looking stance on global power dynamics. By contextualizing his views within the immediate post-independence milieu and India's evolving domestic imperatives, the paper argues that Ambedkar’s strategic pragmatism offers enduring insights into contemporary foreign policy challenges. Ultimately, this exploration expands the understanding of Ambedkar’s political thought beyond constitutionalism, affirming his relevance as a theorist of international affairs.

Keywords: Foreign Policy, National Interest, Geopolitics, Realism & Strategic Pragmatism