Overview
The Act East Policy is India’s diplomatic and strategic initiative aimed at strengthening economic, political, cultural, and strategic relations with countries in East Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Indo-Pacific region. It was announced in 2014 as an upgraded and more action-oriented version of India’s earlier Look East Policy launched in 1991.
The policy seeks to deepen India’s engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and other regional partners while promoting regional connectivity, trade, and security cooperation.
Evolution of the Policy
Look East Policy (1991)
- Introduced during economic liberalisation.
- Focused mainly on economic engagement and trade with Southeast Asia.
- Aimed at integrating India with the Asia-Pacific region.
Act East Policy (2014)
- Expanded the scope beyond economic ties to include strategic, cultural, connectivity, and defence cooperation.
- Emphasises active implementation and deeper regional integration.
Objectives
- Strengthen economic and trade relations with East and Southeast Asian countries
- Enhance connectivity between India and ASEAN, especially through the Northeast region
- Promote strategic and defence cooperation in the Indo-Pacific
- Strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties
- Ensure a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region
Key Areas of Cooperation
Economic Cooperation
India aims to increase trade and investment with ASEAN and other East Asian economies through regional partnerships and trade agreements.
Connectivity Projects
Infrastructure projects aim to connect India’s Northeast with Southeast Asia, improving trade and mobility.
Examples include:
- India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway
- Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project
Strategic and Security Cooperation
India has increased defence cooperation with several countries in the region through joint military exercises, maritime cooperation, and strategic dialogues.
Cultural and Civilisational Links
The policy also highlights historical and cultural connections between India and Southeast Asia through shared heritage, religion, and traditions.
Role of Northeast India
The Northeastern states are considered the gateway to Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy. Infrastructure development, border trade, and connectivity initiatives are aimed at transforming the region into a hub for regional commerce and cultural exchange.
Significance
- Strengthens India’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region
- Promotes regional economic integration
- Counters emerging geopolitical challenges
- Boosts development in Northeast India
- Enhances India–ASEAN strategic partnership
Conclusion
The Act East Policy represents India’s proactive approach toward engaging with the dynamic economies and strategic partners of East and Southeast Asia. By combining economic integration, connectivity, and security cooperation, the policy aims to position India as an important stakeholder in the evolving Indo-Pacific order.
