How did the cold war influence India principle of non alignment?

The Cold War significantly influenced India's principle of non-alignment as the country sought to maintain its independence from the rival blocs led by the United States and the Soviet Union. By adopting non-alignment, India aimed to avoid entanglement in superpower politics and focus on its own national interests, promoting a policy of peaceful coexistence and fostering relationships with multiple nations. This stance allowed India to advocate for decolonization and support newly independent nations, while also securing economic and military aid from both blocs without fully aligning with either. Non-alignment became a cornerstone of India's foreign policy, reflecting its commitment to sovereignty and global peace.