China’s push for greater influence in the Indo-Pacific region has highlighted the geopolitical importance of island states. In what ways does it affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to the situation? (200 Words)
Refer-The Indian Express
Enrich the answer from other sources, if the question demands.
IAS Parliament 6 years
KEY POINTS
China’s influence affecting India’s National interest
· Hambantota port was leased to China for 99 years by SriLanka. This was a strategic port for India with regard to crude oil supplies.
· China’s Dominance in major choke points(naval base in Djibouti, dominance in St of Malacca which connects to the South China Sea) of Indo-Pacific region will affect the trade and commerce for India, as more than 70% of trade takes place via sea route.
· China’s heavy investment in India’s neighbourhood region has affected India’s strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region. Eg: China Myanmar Economic Corridor.
· Belt Road Initiative enables Mauritius, SriLanka, Seychelles tilting towards China due to huge investments, thus weakening India’s foreign policy. Eg: China won strategic contracts to build the Colombo port city in SriLanka.
India’s Response
· Completing the unfinished infrastructure projects like the Kaladan multi-modal project, Indo-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway etc.
· Effectively applying the I.K.Gujral doctrine to strengthen the relationship with neighbourhoods, especially with SriLanka, Mauritius.
· According to the World Bank, SAARC is the least integrated regional grouping in the world(economically). This needs to be strengthened to establish a close relationship with the Maldives.
· Effective implementation Project Sagarmala and Project Mausam will help in strengthening the influence of India in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sahitya 6 years
Please review
IAS Parliament 6 years
Be more specific in India's response. Mention about Gujral Doctrine, Project Mausam, etc. Keep Writing.
