IGNOUMATIC

India’s engagement with South-East Asia has evolved significantly over the past few decades, transitioning from limited interactions to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This transformation is primarily driven by the “Act East Policy,” which aims to enhance economic, political, and cultural ties with the region.(Wikipedia)

5.1 Historical Context

India’s historical connections with South-East Asia date back centuries, marked by cultural exchanges, trade, and the spread of Buddhism and Hinduism. However, during the Cold War, India’s focus shifted towards non-alignment and inward-looking economic policies, leading to limited engagement with the region.

5.2 Look East to Act East Policy

In the early 1990s, India initiated the “Look East Policy” under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, aiming to revitalize relations with South-East Asian nations. This policy emphasized economic integration and political cooperation.

In 2014, the policy was rebranded as the “Act East Policy” under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signifying a more proactive and result-oriented approach. The policy focuses on:(Wikipedia)

• Economic Integration: Enhancing trade and investment through agreements like the ASEAN-India Free Trade Area.(Wikipedia)
• Connectivity: Developing infrastructure projects such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway to improve physical connectivity.(Wikipedia)
• Strategic Cooperation: Engaging in defense and security collaborations, including joint military exercises and maritime security initiatives.

5.3 Bilateral Relations

• Vietnam: India and Vietnam share strong defense and economic ties. India has extended lines of credit for defense procurement and participates in joint oil exploration projects in the South China Sea.
• Singapore: As a major financial hub, Singapore is a key partner in trade, investment, and capacity-building initiatives. The two countries collaborate in areas like urban planning, education, and technology.
• Myanmar: India engages with Myanmar to enhance connectivity and counter insurgency in the North-East region. Projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project aim to improve access to the North-Eastern states.
• Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand: India maintains robust economic and cultural relations with these countries, focusing on trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

5.4 Multilateral Engagement

India actively participates in regional forums such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), East Asia Summit (EAS), and the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), contributing to discussions on regional security, economic cooperation, and disaster management.

5.5 Strategic Considerations

India’s engagement with South-East Asia is also influenced by strategic factors, particularly the need to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the region. Collaborations in maritime security, freedom of navigation, and adherence to international laws are central to India’s strategic objectives.

Conclusion

India’s relations with South-East Asia have matured into a multifaceted partnership encompassing economic, strategic, and cultural dimensions. The Act East Policy serves as a cornerstone for India’s aspirations to play a significant role in the Indo-Pacific region, promoting a rules-based order and regional stability.