Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India’s engagement with East and Southeast Asia has undergone a significant transformation over the past three decades. Initially conceived in 1991, the ‘Look East Policy’ (LEP) aimed to cultivate economic and diplomatic ties with the ASEAN region, recognizing its growing economic dynamism. However, with the rise of China and evolving geopolitical realities, the LEP was formally upgraded to the ‘Act East Policy’ (AEP) in 2014. This shift signified a more proactive and comprehensive approach, extending beyond economic cooperation to include strategic partnerships, security collaboration, and cultural exchange, fundamentally altering the strategic landscape of the Indo-Pacific region.
From Look East to Act East: A Paradigm Shift
The ‘Look East Policy’ was largely driven by economic considerations, focusing on trade, investment, and connectivity with ASEAN nations. It aimed to leverage the economic growth of Southeast Asia and integrate India into regional value chains. However, the LEP was criticized for being somewhat reactive and lacking a strong security dimension. The AEP, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, represents a qualitative shift, characterized by a more assertive and proactive engagement.
Key Differences: LEP vs. AEP
| Feature | Look East Policy (LEP) | Act East Policy (AEP) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Primarily economic engagement | Comprehensive strategic partnership (economic, security, political, cultural) |
| Scope | Limited to ASEAN countries | Expanded to include Australia, Japan, and other Indo-Pacific nations |
| Approach | Reactive and largely economic | Proactive, multi-dimensional, and security-focused |
| Emphasis | Trade and investment | Connectivity, capacity building, maritime security, and people-to-people ties |
Strategic Implications
Enhanced Security Cooperation
The AEP prioritizes security cooperation with countries in the Indo-Pacific region. This includes joint military exercises, maritime domain awareness initiatives, and intelligence sharing. India’s increased engagement with countries like Vietnam, Japan, and Australia is a direct outcome of the AEP, aimed at countering China’s growing influence in the region. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) – India, Japan, Australia, and the US – is a prime example of this enhanced security cooperation.
Countering China’s Influence
China’s assertive behavior in the South China Sea and its growing economic and military power have prompted India to strengthen its strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. The AEP is seen as a key component of India’s strategy to balance China’s influence and maintain a rules-based international order. India’s support for freedom of navigation and its commitment to resolving disputes peacefully are central to this approach.
Connectivity and Infrastructure Development
The AEP emphasizes infrastructure development and connectivity projects in the region. India is investing in projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (linking India with Myanmar) and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade. These projects aim to reduce India’s dependence on sea routes and provide alternative access to Southeast Asian markets.
Strengthening ASEAN Ties
While the LEP laid the foundation for India-ASEAN relations, the AEP seeks to deepen and broaden this partnership. India provides capacity-building assistance to ASEAN countries in areas like disaster management, cybersecurity, and counter-terrorism. The ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (AIFTA), signed in 2009, has boosted trade and investment between the two regions.
Maritime Security and Indo-Pacific Vision
The AEP recognizes the importance of maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. India is actively involved in initiatives to promote maritime domain awareness, combat piracy, and ensure freedom of navigation. India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific is based on the principles of inclusivity, openness, and respect for international law.
Conclusion
The transformation from the ‘Look East Policy’ to the ‘Act East Policy’ represents a significant evolution in India’s foreign policy. The AEP signifies a more proactive, comprehensive, and strategically focused approach to engaging with the Indo-Pacific region. While economic cooperation remains important, the AEP prioritizes security cooperation, infrastructure development, and strengthening partnerships to counter China’s influence and promote a rules-based international order. The success of the AEP will depend on India’s ability to sustain its engagement, build trust with regional partners, and adapt to the evolving geopolitical landscape.
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.