Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Look East Policy (LEP) was a key strategic initiative of India, formally launched in 1991 under Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, marking a pivotal shift in India’s foreign policy orientation. Prior to 1991, India’s foreign policy was largely focused on its western neighbours and the Soviet Union. The LEP aimed to cultivate extensive economic and strategic relations with the dynamic and growing economies of East and Southeast Asia. This policy was a response to several factors, including the end of the Cold War, the economic liberalization of India, and the rise of ASEAN as a significant regional bloc. It represented a recognition of the economic potential and strategic importance of the Asia-Pacific region.
Origins and Initial Phase (1991-2004)
The genesis of the LEP can be traced to the economic crisis of 1991, which necessitated a re-evaluation of India’s economic strategy. The policy was initially driven by economic considerations, focusing on trade, investment, and tourism. Key elements included:
- Strengthening ties with ASEAN: India became a sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1992 and a full dialogue partner in 1996.
- Bilateral Trade Agreements: India pursued bilateral trade agreements with countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia.
- Focus on Connectivity: Recognizing the importance of infrastructure, India began exploring possibilities for improving connectivity with the region.
However, the initial phase was characterized by slow progress due to domestic constraints and limited engagement with the region.
Expansion and Deepening of Engagement (2004-2014)
The UPA government (2004-2014) significantly expanded the scope and depth of the LEP. This phase witnessed a more proactive and comprehensive approach, encompassing political, security, and cultural dimensions.
- Increased High-Level Visits: Frequent exchange of high-level visits between India and Southeast Asian countries fostered greater understanding and cooperation.
- Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): India signed FTAs with ASEAN in 2009, boosting trade and investment flows.
- Security Cooperation: India enhanced security cooperation with countries like Vietnam and Indonesia, particularly in areas like maritime security and counter-terrorism.
- India-Myanmar Border Area Development Programme: Launched in 2004, this program aimed to improve infrastructure and socio-economic conditions in the border areas.
The LEP also extended to East Asian countries like Japan, South Korea, and China, with India forging strategic partnerships with these nations.
The ‘Act East’ Policy (2014-Present)
In 2014, the Modi government rebranded the Look East Policy as the ‘Act East’ Policy (AEP). This signified a more proactive and action-oriented approach, emphasizing greater connectivity, infrastructure development, and people-to-people exchanges.
- Focus on Connectivity Projects: The AEP prioritizes infrastructure projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (linking India with Myanmar) and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.
- Enhanced Security Cooperation: Strengthened security cooperation with countries like Vietnam, particularly in the South China Sea.
- Digital Connectivity: Promoting digital connectivity and cooperation in areas like cybersecurity and fintech.
- Northeast India as Gateway: Recognizing the strategic location of Northeast India, the AEP aims to transform the region into a hub for trade and connectivity.
Comparison between LEP and AEP:
| Feature | Look East Policy (LEP) | Act East Policy (AEP) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Primarily economic engagement | Comprehensive engagement (economic, strategic, cultural, security) |
| Approach | More passive and reactive | Proactive and action-oriented |
| Connectivity | Limited focus on infrastructure | Strong emphasis on infrastructure development and connectivity projects |
| Regional Focus | Southeast Asia primarily | Southeast Asia and East Asia equally |
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its successes, the LEP/AEP faces several challenges:
- Infrastructure Deficiencies: Poor infrastructure in Northeast India remains a major bottleneck.
- Political Instability: Political instability in some countries in the region can hinder progress.
- China’s Growing Influence: China’s increasing economic and political influence in Southeast Asia poses a challenge to India’s interests.
- Bureaucratic Hurdles: Delays in project implementation due to bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Looking ahead, the AEP has the potential to further strengthen India’s ties with the Asia-Pacific region. Continued investment in infrastructure, enhanced security cooperation, and greater people-to-people exchanges will be crucial for realizing its full potential. India needs to proactively engage with regional forums like ASEAN and the East Asia Summit to promote its interests and contribute to regional stability.
Conclusion
The Look East/Act East Policy represents a significant evolution in India’s foreign policy, reflecting its growing economic and strategic engagement with the Asia-Pacific region. While challenges remain, the policy has yielded substantial benefits in terms of trade, investment, and security cooperation. The continued success of the AEP will depend on India’s ability to address infrastructure deficiencies, navigate geopolitical complexities, and maintain a proactive and consistent approach to regional engagement. It is vital for India’s long-term economic prosperity and strategic influence.
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.