The concept of 'Strategic Autonomy' in Indian foreign policy refers to which of the following?

Correct option is A

The concept of Strategic Autonomy in Indian foreign policy refers to a) Maintaining freedom in making foreign policy decisions.

Detailed Explanation
Strategic Autonomy is a core principle of modern Indian diplomacy, evolving from the Cold War-era policy of Non-Alignment. It is defined as a state's ability to pursue its national interests and adopt its preferred foreign policy without being constrained by other states or forced into formal military alliances.

Key Features of Strategic Autonomy:
Independent Decision-Making: India seeks to make choices based on its own merits and interests rather than adhering to the dictates of a superpower or a specific bloc.

Multi-alignment: Unlike "Non-alignment" (which was often seen as staying away from everyone), Strategic Autonomy involves "Multi-alignment"—engaging with multiple, sometimes rival, powers simultaneously. For example, India maintains a strong strategic partnership with the United States (via the Quad) while continuing its long-standing relationship with Russia and participating in BRICS.

Issue-Based Support: India cooperates with different nations on specific issues (e.g., climate change with Europe, maritime security with the US, and regional stability with Russia/Central Asia) without getting entangled in their bilateral rivalries.

Avoidance of Alliances: A crucial element is the refusal to enter into "mutual defense treaties" or formal military alliances that would mandate India to participate in someone else's war.