Abstract

The digital age has ushered in a new system of how democracy operates and expresses itself in the world. The interplay of the digital age and democratic governance is transforming the way foreign policy is practiced in the world. In India which is a largest democracy and an emerging world power transformation is especially important. As discussed in this paper, digital democracy whereby there is increased access to the internet, social media and participation by citizens, has started to shape the foreign policy making and diplomatic outreach of India. E-government projects, on-line political mobilization and enhanced access to information have enhanced democracy and citizen-state relations. It analyzes the duality of digital platforms as a means of public diplomacy and a space where the opinion of the domestic population is capable of influencing or limiting international decision-making. Although digital tools have increased the soft power of India and allowed real-time diplomatic interaction, new complexities have also been noted. Social media has led to pressure on the policymakers by the people and has in some instances hastened or limited choices in the foreign policy. Also, the possibility of misinformation, the issue of digital surveillance and cyber diplomacy must be approached carefully in the interconnected world. Also addressed in this article is the need by India to change its foreign policy strategy to include digital diplomacy in a more strategic manner without losing the balance between statecraft and the populace. In the era of digital democracy, foreign policy control will be instrumental in maintaining the Indian democratic spirit and global reputation as India tries to establish itself on the world stage. The key to the Indian democracy in the digital age is the capacity to adjust to the technological change and protect the democratic principles.