Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India’s ‘Look East Policy’, launched in 1991, and subsequently rebranded as the ‘Act East Policy’ in 2014, marked a strategic shift in India’s foreign policy, focusing on enhanced economic and security cooperation with Southeast and East Asian countries. This policy aimed to leverage India’s geographical proximity and cultural connections to foster trade, investment, and connectivity. However, the implementation of this policy in the North-Eastern region of India, home to a diverse range of indigenous communities, has presented both opportunities and challenges, raising concerns about their socio-economic and cultural well-being. The policy’s impact on land rights, traditional livelihoods, and cultural identity requires careful analysis.
The Look East/Act East Policy: A Brief Overview
The LEP was initially driven by economic considerations, seeking to capitalize on the economic dynamism of ASEAN countries. The AEP broadened the scope to include security cooperation, counter-terrorism, and people-to-people exchanges. Key components include infrastructure development (roads, railways, waterways), trade facilitation, and cultural exchange programs. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, connecting Mizoram to the Sittwe port in Myanmar, exemplifies this focus on connectivity.
Impact on North-East India: Positive Aspects
- Economic Development: Increased trade with Southeast Asia has boosted economic activity in the North-East, creating opportunities in sectors like tourism, handicrafts, and agriculture. Border trade initiatives like the Moreh-Tammu road have facilitated cross-border commerce.
- Infrastructure Development: The AEP has spurred investment in infrastructure projects, improving connectivity within the region and with neighboring countries. This includes road construction, railway extensions, and the development of airports.
- Cultural Exchange: Increased cultural exchange programs have fostered greater understanding and appreciation of the region’s diverse cultures.
- Strategic Importance: The North-East has gained strategic importance as a gateway to Southeast Asia, leading to increased attention from the central government.
Impact on Indigenous Peoples: Concerns and Challenges
- Land Displacement: Infrastructure projects, such as road construction and dam building, have led to the displacement of indigenous communities from their ancestral lands, impacting their livelihoods and cultural practices.
- Loss of Traditional Livelihoods: The influx of migrants and the promotion of commercial agriculture have threatened traditional livelihoods like shifting cultivation (Jhum cultivation), practiced by many tribal communities.
- Cultural Erosion: Increased exposure to external cultures and the dominance of mainstream Indian culture have raised concerns about the erosion of indigenous languages, traditions, and cultural identity.
- Uneven Development: The benefits of the AEP have not been evenly distributed, with some communities benefiting more than others. Marginalized groups often lack access to opportunities and resources.
- Security Concerns: Increased connectivity has also led to concerns about the influx of illegal immigrants and the potential for increased criminal activity, impacting the security and stability of the region.
Addressing the Concerns: Policy Measures and Recommendations
The government has implemented several measures to address the concerns of indigenous communities, including:
- The Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006: Aims to recognize and vest the rights of forest dwellers, including tribal communities, over forest land.
- Special Category Status: Providing special category status to North-Eastern states, entitling them to preferential funding and development assistance.
- North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS): Focused on infrastructure development in the region.
- Promotion of Sustainable Tourism: Encouraging eco-tourism and cultural tourism that respects the environment and local cultures.
However, more needs to be done. This includes ensuring meaningful consultation with indigenous communities in all development projects, strengthening the implementation of the FRA, promoting sustainable livelihood options, and investing in education and healthcare to empower these communities.
| Policy/Project | Positive Impact | Potential Negative Impact on Indigenous Communities |
|---|---|---|
| Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project | Improved connectivity, trade facilitation | Land acquisition, displacement of communities, environmental impact |
| NESIDS | Infrastructure development, economic growth | Potential for uneven development, displacement due to projects |
| Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006 | Recognition of forest rights, empowerment of forest dwellers | Implementation challenges, disputes over land ownership |
Conclusion
The Look East/Act East Policy holds significant potential for the economic and strategic development of North-East India. However, realizing this potential requires a sensitive and inclusive approach that prioritizes the rights and well-being of its indigenous communities. Addressing concerns related to land rights, cultural preservation, and equitable distribution of benefits is crucial for ensuring that the AEP contributes to sustainable and inclusive development in the region. A balance between national interests and the protection of indigenous cultures and livelihoods is paramount for the long-term success of the policy.
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.