Abstract. In 2021, India faced a new wave of the pandemic, which dealt a serious blow to its economy. Nevertheless, the leadership and society managed to cope with the threat by organizing mass vaccination. During the year, the Indian government faced a number of domestic political challenges, including farmer protests and unrest in the Northeast India. However, thanks to  timely measures and concessions, the government kept the situation under control. The gradual recovery of the economy and stability within the country allowed the Indian leadership to increase its external policy activity.