Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The ‘Look East Policy’ (LEP), initiated in 1991 by Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, marked a pivotal shift in India’s foreign policy, aiming to cultivate economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia. This policy was later rebranded as the ‘Act East Policy’ (AEP) in 2014 by the Modi government, signifying a more proactive and result-oriented approach. While the LEP/AEP has yielded considerable benefits in terms of trade and diplomatic engagement, evolving regional dynamics and internal constraints necessitate a significant course correction to fully realize its potential and address emerging challenges, particularly concerning China’s growing influence.
Initial Successes and Potentialities
The LEP initially focused on economic integration with ASEAN nations. Key achievements include:
- Increased Trade: India’s trade with ASEAN countries grew significantly, from USD 2.9 billion in 1993 to over USD 81.5 billion in 2022-23 (Ministry of Commerce & Industry data, knowledge cutoff 2023).
- Enhanced Diplomatic Ties: Strengthened relationships with countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia through regular summits and dialogues.
- Strategic Partnerships: Development of strategic partnerships, particularly in maritime security, with countries concerned about China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea.
- Cultural Exchange: Promotion of cultural ties and people-to-people contact, fostering mutual understanding.
Areas Requiring Course Correction
Geopolitical Shifts and China’s Rise
China’s increasing economic and military power presents a major challenge. The LEP/AEP initially underestimated the speed and scale of China’s rise. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has made significant inroads in Southeast Asia, offering substantial infrastructure financing that India struggles to match. This has led to increased dependence on China and diluted India’s influence.
Connectivity and Infrastructure Deficits
India’s connectivity projects in the region have lagged behind. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMPT), aimed at connecting India to Myanmar and then to Southeast Asia, has faced significant delays due to political instability in Myanmar and logistical challenges. Similarly, the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project has also experienced setbacks. These delays hinder trade and economic integration.
Limited Security Cooperation
While India has enhanced security cooperation with some ASEAN members, it remains limited compared to China’s extensive military engagement and arms sales in the region. India needs to proactively offer more robust security assistance and joint exercises to address shared concerns about maritime security and terrorism.
Economic Asymmetry and Trade Imbalance
A significant trade deficit exists between India and several ASEAN countries. India needs to diversify its export basket and reduce its reliance on primary commodities. Promoting value-added exports and attracting investment in manufacturing are crucial.
Political Instability in Myanmar
The 2021 military coup in Myanmar has severely impacted India’s connectivity projects and regional security. India needs to adopt a nuanced approach, balancing its strategic interests with its commitment to democratic values.
Suggested Course Correction
- Increased Investment in Connectivity: Prioritize completion of key infrastructure projects like KMMPT and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway. Explore alternative routes and modes of transport.
- Enhanced Economic Engagement: Focus on promoting trade and investment in high-growth sectors like digital economy, renewable energy, and healthcare.
- Strengthened Security Cooperation: Expand maritime security cooperation, offer capacity building assistance, and conduct joint military exercises with ASEAN partners.
- Proactive Diplomacy: Engage with all stakeholders in the region, including Myanmar, and advocate for a peaceful and democratic resolution to the crisis.
- Diversification of Partnerships: Strengthen ties with countries like Japan, Australia, and the US to counterbalance China’s influence.
Conclusion
The ‘Act East Policy’ remains a vital pillar of India’s foreign policy, offering significant opportunities for economic and strategic engagement with Southeast Asia. However, to overcome existing challenges and fully realize its potential, a major course correction is essential. This requires increased investment in connectivity, enhanced economic engagement, strengthened security cooperation, and proactive diplomacy. A more nuanced and pragmatic approach, acknowledging the evolving geopolitical landscape and addressing internal constraints, will be crucial for India to effectively navigate the complexities of the Indo-Pacific region and secure its interests.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.