Q.12. Discuss the nature of India-China relations in the light of OBOR.

OBOR Overview:

• The OBOR initiative, also known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is a large-scale infrastructure and economic development project initiated by China.
• It aims to connect China with Central Asia, Europe, and Indo-Pacific littoral countries through land-based and ocean-going routes.

Components of OBOR:

• • Belt: Refers to the land-based Silk Road Economic Belt, connecting China’s underdeveloped hinterland to Europe via Central Asia.
  • Road: Refers to the Maritime Silk Road, connecting Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Gulf, and East Africa to China’s southern provinces through ports and railways.

India’s Position:

• India has expressed reservations about OBOR for several reasons:
  • Sovereignty Concerns: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a key component of OBOR, passes through the disputed territory of Gilgit-Baltistan, which India claims as part of Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Strategic Implications: India views OBOR as a geostrategic move by China to expand its influence in the region.
  • Multilateral vs. Unilateral Approach: India prefers multilateral models of regional connectivity and development, while OBOR is a unilateral Chinese initiative.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

• Advantages of India joining OBOR:
  • Access to enhanced trade routes and economic opportunities.
  • Connectivity with Central Asia and Europe.
• Disadvantages:
  • Sovereignty Concerns: India’s objection to CPEC due to territorial disputes.
  • Strategic Rivalry: Balancing China’s influence in the region.
  • Alternative Paths: India seeks its own international transport corridors free from Chinese influence.

Conclusion:

• India’s stance remains cautious. While economic benefits exist, concerns over sovereignty and strategic implications persist.
• Finding a delicate balance between cooperation and safeguarding national interests is crucial for India in navigating the OBOR landscape.

In summary, India’s approach toward OBOR involves weighing economic gains against strategic challenges, all while asserting its sovereignty and regional interests.