India’s neighbourhood policy is examined within the context of its global outreach, highlighting its role as a rising power. While India aspires to global influence, its regional relationships, particularly in South Asia, present challenges. Differing views exist on the changes in India’s foreign policy since 2014, with an emphasis on cultural and civilisational virtues alongside security concerns. India’s Neighbourhood First Policy aims to integrate South Asian countries, but regional dynamics and bilateral tensions complicate this. India’s approach has broadened to include Southeast Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific region. Despite efforts to promote regional cooperation through South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), progress has been slow, with security concerns and historical legacies hindering deeper integration. China’s growing involvement in the region through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative poses a challenge to India’s influence. India’s regional policymaking in the post-Cold War years shows trends of internationalisation, diaspora influence, and geo-economics. A more institutional approach to South Asia is needed, with a focus on human security and multi-track projects to build regional consensus.