Q10. Discuss India’s regional policy towards South-East Asia.

India’s regional policy towards South-East Asia has evolved from the “Look East Policy” (LEP) initiated in the 1990s to the more dynamic and action-oriented “Act East Policy” (AEP) announced in 2014. This policy places South-East Asia, particularly the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) bloc, at the center of India’s foreign and economic policy.

Key Pillars of the “Act East Policy”

• Strategic and Security Engagement:
  • India aims to promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific (FOIP), countering China’s assertiveness.
  • This involves strengthening defense cooperation (joint exercises, training) and strategic partnerships (e.g., with Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia).
  • India actively participates in ASEAN-led forums like the East Asia Summit (EAS), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and ADMM-Plus.
• Economic Cooperation (Commerce):
  • The focus is on enhancing trade and investment. India has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in goods with ASEAN.
  • Key infrastructure projects aim to improve connectivity, such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project.
• Cultural and People-to-People Ties (Culture):
  • This pillar leverages India’s historical and cultural linkages (Buddhism, Hinduism) with the region.
  • It promotes educational scholarships (e.g., at Nalanda University), tourism, and cultural exchanges to build soft power and deepen mutual understanding.

Conclusion

India’s “Act East Policy” is a multidimensional strategy that moves beyond just economic integration. By emphasizing the “3 Cs” (Commerce, Connectivity, and Culture) alongside security, India seeks to solidify its role as a key player and a net security provider in the South-East Asian region.