Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The end of the Cold War dramatically altered the global geopolitical landscape, prompting India to reassess its foreign policy orientation. Traditionally rooted in non-alignment, India recognized the rising economic dynamism of East and Southeast Asia and the need to forge stronger ties. This led to the formalization of the ‘Look East Policy’ in 1992 under Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, shifting India’s focus towards greater engagement with the ASEAN region. Initially primarily economic, the LEP gradually incorporated strategic dimensions, aiming to secure India’s interests in a rapidly changing Indo-Pacific region. This policy has since evolved into the ‘Act East Policy’ under the Modi government, signifying a more proactive and comprehensive approach.
Economic Dimensions of the Look East Policy
The primary driver of the LEP was economic. Post-1991 liberalization opened India to global trade and investment, and Southeast Asia presented significant opportunities.
- Trade Expansion: India’s trade with ASEAN countries witnessed substantial growth. In 1992, trade was around $2.8 billion; by 2023, it exceeded $110 billion (Source: Department of Commerce, as of knowledge cutoff 2023). Key exports included petroleum products, gems & jewellery, and machinery, while imports comprised electronics, chemicals, and agricultural products.
- Investment Flows: The LEP encouraged Indian companies to invest in Southeast Asia, particularly in sectors like infrastructure, manufacturing, and IT. Conversely, ASEAN investments into India also increased, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
- Connectivity Projects: Recognizing the importance of infrastructure, India actively participated in connectivity projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway (IMTTH) and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transport Project. These projects aimed to enhance trade routes and reduce transportation costs.
- Regional Economic Cooperation: India became a dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1992 and a full dialogue partner in 1996. It also joined the East Asia Summit (EAS) in 2005, providing a platform for regional economic cooperation and dialogue.
Strategic Dimensions of the Look East Policy
As China’s economic and military power grew, the LEP took on a significant strategic dimension, aimed at balancing China’s influence in the region.
- Security Cooperation: India strengthened security cooperation with countries like Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia through joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and defense equipment sales. This aimed to enhance maritime security and counter-terrorism efforts.
- Balancing China’s Influence: The LEP was seen as a way to counter China’s growing assertiveness in the South China Sea and its increasing influence over ASEAN countries. India’s engagement with Vietnam, in particular, was viewed as a strategic counterbalance to China.
- Maritime Security: The Indian Navy increased its presence in the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, participating in joint patrols and exercises with regional navies to ensure freedom of navigation and protect sea lanes of communication.
- Act East Policy (AEP): The AEP, launched in 2014, built upon the LEP, emphasizing greater connectivity, cultural exchange, and people-to-people ties. It also focused on strengthening India’s role as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific region.
Evaluation of the Look East/Act East Policy
The LEP/AEP has yielded significant benefits for India, but also faces challenges.
| Successes | Challenges |
|---|---|
| Increased trade and investment with ASEAN countries. | Infrastructure projects like the IMTTH have faced delays due to political instability in Myanmar. |
| Enhanced strategic partnerships with key regional players. | China’s continued economic and military dominance in the region remains a significant challenge. |
| Improved India’s image as a responsible and engaged regional power. | Bureaucratic hurdles and lack of coordination between different government agencies can hinder implementation. |
| Greater focus on connectivity and infrastructure development. | Maintaining a balance between economic and strategic objectives requires careful calibration. |
Conclusion
The Look East/Act East Policy has been a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy, successfully integrating the country with the dynamic economies of East and Southeast Asia. While economic gains have been substantial, the strategic dimension remains crucial in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific. Addressing the existing challenges related to infrastructure development, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and China’s growing influence will be vital for ensuring the continued success of this policy and solidifying India’s position as a leading regional power. The future success hinges on a continued commitment to proactive engagement and a nuanced understanding of regional dynamics.
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.