Hyper-Nationalism, Hindutva, and the Transformation of Indian Strategic Culture (2014–2025): Challenges for Pakistan

Abstract

The transformation of Indian strategic culture during Narendra Modi's tenure (2014–2025) represents one of the most consequential developments in South Asian security. This article examines how the consolidation of Hindutva ideology, hyper-nationalism, and centralized political leadership has reshaped India's strategic behaviour and security outlook. Employing Strategic Culture Theory, particularly Johnston's concept of strategic preferences and Katzenstein's constructivist emphasis on norms and identity, the study argues that India's strategic culture has increasingly integrated civilizational nationalism into foreign and security policy. Rather than representing a complete rupture from earlier traditions, the Modi era demonstrates a selective reinterpretation of historical strategic narratives through Hindu nationalist ideology, stronger military posturing, and a willingness to undertake coercive diplomacy below the nuclear threshold. The article adopts a qualitative analytical approach based on academic literature, official policy documents, and major strategic developments between 2014 and 2025. The findings indicate that ideological narratives have become increasingly intertwined with defence modernization, regional diplomacy, and military signalling. These developments have significantly influenced Pakistan's security environment by increasing crisis instability, accelerating conventional and technological competition, and reducing diplomatic space for conflict management. The study concludes that Pakistan should respond through a combination of strategic deterrence, diplomatic engagement, economic resilience, and enhanced regional partnerships while avoiding reactive escalation. The article contributes to the literature on South Asian strategic studies by explaining the interaction between ideology and strategic culture in shaping contemporary Indian security behaviour.