As part of the 2025–2026 Annual India Lecture Series, The India Center at UCF welcomed Amitendu Palit, Ph.D., Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead at the Institute of South Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore, for a timely discussion on India’s evolving global trade strategy.

Palit’s lecture focused on a notable shift in India’s approach to free trade agreements (FTAs) in recent years. After a period of caution, India has adopted a more proactive stance — finalizing agreements with countries such as Australia and the United Arab Emirates, while advancing negotiations with partners including the United Kingdom and the European Union.

He placed these developments within the broader context of shifting global geopolitics, highlighting the strategic motivations behind India’s renewed engagement.

The talk also explored how this evolving trade strategy is positioning India to expand its influence globally. By aligning economic policy with strategic interests, India is leveraging trade partnerships to enhance its ability to shape external economic and political outcomes.

The event brought together students, faculty, and members of the broader UCF community, reflecting The India Center’s commitment to fostering informed discussions on India’s role in global affairs. Through expert-led conversations like this, the Annual India Lecture Series continues to create space for deeper understanding of contemporary issues shaping India and the world.