India's Stress Test: How global pressure is shaping New Delhi’s next moves

In this episode of Unconventional Knowledge, Andrew Kureth speaks with Dr. Aparna Pande about how India is navigating the geopolitical fallout of the Iran war.

The discussion outlines India’s strategy of strategic autonomy and multi-alignment, and how growing instability in the Middle East is testing its ability to balance relations across competing powers. With deep energy dependence and critical trade routes at stake, a prolonged conflict could force India to shift from neutrality toward more explicit alignment.

The episode also examines regional ripple effects, from Pakistan and Afghanistan to shifting global partnerships, as well as the economic consequences for India, including energy pressures, inflation, and supply chain risks.

A focused look at whether India can maintain its balancing strategy, or will be pushed into clearer geopolitical choices.