Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), originally known as ‘One Belt One Road’ (OBOR), launched in 2013 by Chinese President Xi Jinping, is a massive infrastructure development strategy adopted by the Chinese government. It aims to connect Asia with Africa and Europe via land and maritime networks, improving regional integration, increasing trade, and stimulating economic growth. Encompassing over 150 countries and international organizations, the BRI represents a significant shift in China’s foreign policy, projecting its economic and political influence globally. However, the initiative has raised substantial concerns for India, stemming from issues of sovereignty, debt sustainability, and strategic implications.
China’s ‘One Belt One Road’ Initiative: A Brief Description
The BRI comprises two main components: the ‘Silk Road Economic Belt’ (SREB), focusing on land-based infrastructure projects, and the ‘21st Century Maritime Silk Road’ (MSR), concentrating on sea routes. Key projects include the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar Economic Corridor (BCIM-EC), and various port developments across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The initiative is funded primarily through Chinese institutions like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Silk Road Fund.
India’s Major Concerns Regarding OBOR
1. Geopolitical Concerns: Sovereignty and Regional Influence
India’s primary concern revolves around the CPEC, which passes through Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). India views this as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. India has consistently protested against the CPEC, refusing to participate in BRI-related forums that include the CPEC. China’s growing influence in South Asia, particularly through infrastructure projects, is perceived as an attempt to encircle India and undermine its regional dominance. The increasing dependence of smaller nations on Chinese funding and infrastructure also raises concerns about China’s political leverage.
2. Economic Concerns: Debt Sustainability and Trade Imbalance
India is wary of the debt trap diplomacy associated with the BRI. Several countries, including Sri Lanka (with the Hambantota port lease in 2017), have struggled with unsustainable debt burdens after taking on Chinese loans for BRI projects. This raises concerns about the potential for China to gain control over strategic assets in indebted nations. Furthermore, India is concerned about the widening trade deficit with China, which the BRI could exacerbate. The focus on Chinese companies and materials in BRI projects limits economic benefits for Indian businesses. According to a 2021 report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), BRI projects often lack transparency and environmental safeguards, leading to economic and social risks.
3. Security Concerns: Strategic Ports and Military Presence
China’s control over strategic ports along the maritime Silk Route, such as Gwadar in Pakistan, Hambantota in Sri Lanka, and Djibouti, raises security concerns for India. These ports could potentially be used for military purposes, allowing China to project its naval power in the Indian Ocean region. India is also concerned about the dual-use nature of some infrastructure projects, which could have both civilian and military applications. The increased Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean region challenges India’s traditional maritime dominance and poses a threat to its security interests. The development of ports like Kyaukpyu in Myanmar, though currently stalled, also contributes to these anxieties.
4. Lack of Transparency and Environmental Impact
The BRI has been criticized for its lack of transparency in project selection, financing, and implementation. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to assess the true costs and benefits of the projects and raises concerns about corruption and mismanagement. Furthermore, many BRI projects have been criticized for their negative environmental impact, including deforestation, pollution, and disruption of ecosystems. India emphasizes the need for sustainable and environmentally responsible infrastructure development, which it believes is often lacking in BRI projects.
India’s Response to OBOR
India has not officially joined the BRI but has actively promoted alternative connectivity initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the India-Japan Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC). These initiatives aim to promote sustainable development, transparency, and inclusivity, offering a counterweight to the BRI. India also focuses on strengthening its bilateral ties with countries in the region to enhance regional cooperation and counter China’s influence.
Conclusion
China’s BRI is a transformative initiative with far-reaching implications for global trade, connectivity, and geopolitics. While offering potential economic benefits, it presents significant concerns for India related to sovereignty, debt sustainability, security, and transparency. India’s response has been to advocate for alternative connectivity initiatives and strengthen regional partnerships. A balanced approach, focusing on promoting sustainable and inclusive development, is crucial for navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by the BRI in the evolving geopolitical landscape. Future developments will depend on China’s willingness to address India’s concerns and ensure greater transparency and inclusivity in the implementation of the initiative.
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.