Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The ‘Look East Policy’ (LEP), formulated in early 1990s, marked a significant shift in India’s foreign policy, moving away from its traditionally inward-looking approach. Driven by economic liberalization and the end of the Cold War, the LEP aimed to cultivate extensive economic and strategic relations with the dynamic Southeast Asian nations. Initially conceived by Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, it sought to leverage India’s growing economic strength and geographical proximity to forge stronger ties with ASEAN countries. The policy was rooted in the recognition that India’s future prosperity was inextricably linked to the economic dynamism of East and Southeast Asia, and it represented a conscious effort to integrate India into the regional and global economic order.
Historical Context and Evolution
Prior to the LEP, India’s engagement with East Asia was limited, largely due to the constraints of the Cold War and a focus on domestic development. The collapse of the Soviet Union and the economic reforms of 1991 created a conducive environment for a more proactive foreign policy. In 2014, the LEP was officially renamed the ‘Act East Policy’ (AEP) by the Modi government, signifying a more vigorous and action-oriented approach to engagement with the region.
Hopes and Aspirations: Economic Dimension
The primary hope of the LEP was to unlock economic opportunities in Southeast Asia. This involved:
- Boosting Trade and Investment: India aimed to increase bilateral trade with ASEAN countries. For example, trade with ASEAN grew from USD 2.9 billion in 1992 to over USD 81.5 billion in 2022-23 (as per Ministry of Commerce & Industry data - knowledge cutoff 2023).
- Promoting Connectivity: The policy emphasized improving physical and digital connectivity through projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway (IMTTH) and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project.
- Enhancing Economic Cooperation: India sought to establish Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with ASEAN members to reduce trade barriers and promote economic integration. The India-ASEAN FTA in Goods was implemented in 2015.
- Leveraging Demographic Dividend: India aimed to tap into the skilled labor markets of Southeast Asian countries and attract investment in sectors like manufacturing and services.
Hopes and Aspirations: Strategic Dimension
Beyond economics, the LEP had significant strategic objectives:
- Countering China’s Influence: The LEP was partly motivated by a desire to balance China’s growing influence in the region. By strengthening ties with ASEAN countries, India aimed to create a network of partners to promote a multipolar Asia.
- Ensuring Maritime Security: The Indian Ocean and the South China Sea are vital sea lanes for India’s trade. The LEP aimed to enhance maritime security cooperation with Southeast Asian nations to protect these crucial routes.
- Promoting Regional Stability: India sought to play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the region, particularly in addressing issues like terrorism and piracy.
- Strengthening Defence Cooperation: Increased joint military exercises, defence equipment sales, and intelligence sharing were key components of the strategic dimension.
Hopes and Aspirations: Cultural and People-to-People Dimension
The LEP also recognized the importance of cultural ties and people-to-people exchanges:
- Promoting Cultural Understanding: India aimed to increase cultural exchanges, scholarships, and tourism to foster greater understanding and goodwill between India and Southeast Asian countries.
- Reviving Historical Connections: The policy sought to revive historical links with Southeast Asia, particularly through the promotion of Buddhism and shared cultural heritage.
- Educational Exchanges: Increased student and faculty exchanges were envisioned to promote academic collaboration and knowledge sharing.
The Transition to ‘Act East Policy’
The ‘Act East Policy’ builds upon the foundations laid by the LEP, but with a greater emphasis on practical implementation and tangible outcomes. It focuses on:
- Infrastructure Development: Accelerating infrastructure projects like the IMTTH and the Kaladan project.
- Digital Connectivity: Promoting digital connectivity and cooperation in areas like cybersecurity and e-commerce.
- Capacity Building: Providing assistance to ASEAN countries in areas like skill development and disaster management.
Conclusion
The ‘Look East/Act East Policy’ has been instrumental in transforming India’s relationship with Southeast Asia. While significant progress has been made in economic and strategic cooperation, challenges remain in fully realizing the policy’s potential, including infrastructure bottlenecks and geopolitical complexities. The AEP’s success hinges on sustained commitment, effective implementation of connectivity projects, and a proactive approach to addressing regional security concerns. Continued engagement and a focus on mutual benefit will be crucial for strengthening India’s role as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
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.