ASushma Swaraj
BMargaratt Alwa
CVijayalakshmi Pandit
DIndira Gandhi
Answer:
D. Indira Gandhi
Read Explanation:
Indira Gandhi's Role in Foreign Affairs
Indira Gandhi served as India's Minister of External Affairs in addition to being the Prime Minister. This dual role made her a significant figure in shaping India's foreign policy during her tenure.
Key Milestones and Contributions
Panchsheel Principles: While not solely her initiative, Indira Gandhi upheld and promoted the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the principles of Panchsheel (Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence), which were foundational to India's foreign policy since Jawaharlal Nehru's era.
Bangladesh Liberation War (1971): Her decisive leadership during the 1971 war led to the creation of Bangladesh. This event significantly boosted India's regional standing and international influence.
Simla Agreement (1972): Following the war, she signed the Simla Agreement with Pakistan's Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, aiming to normalize relations between the two countries.
Nuclear Program: Under her premiership, India conducted its first nuclear test, 'Smiling Buddha', in 1974, marking a significant development in India's strategic capabilities.
Relationship with the Soviet Union: She strengthened ties with the Soviet Union, culminating in the signing of the Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation in 1971.