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Home/upsc: india & neighbourhood/Page 4

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Tanu Singh
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Tanu SinghLearner
Asked: June 7, 2024In:
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For Nepal to benefit from the “Neighbourhood First” strategy, India must be a kind and giving partner. Mention the current obstacles in the Indo-Nepali relationship in this context, and offer a solution. (Answer in 250 words)

upsc: india & neighbourhood
  1. Kamini g
    Kamini g Learner

    Answer: India, through its Neighbourhood First policy, strives to build cordial and synergetic relations with its South Asian neighbors in various areas such as economy, science and technology, research, and education, among others. Though India has used this policy for cordial relations with NepalRead more

    Answer: India, through its Neighbourhood First policy, strives to build cordial and synergetic relations with its South Asian neighbors in various areas such as economy, science and technology, research, and education, among others. Though India has used this policy for cordial relations with Nepal (like the India-Nepal treaty of trade in 2009, Vaccine Maitri, etc.), there remain certain roadblocks in the Indo-Nepal relationship, highlighted below:

    • Perception of Big Brother attitude: There are arguments that Nepal perceives India as having a ‘big brother attitude’ in its neighborhood. The unrevised Treaty of Peace and Friendship, 1950, and India’s perceived intervention in Nepal’s Constitution-making is seen as an unequal relationship between the two countries.
    • Kalapani boundary issue: While 98% of the India-Nepal boundary was demarcated, two areas, Susta and Kalapani remained in limbo. Nepal expanded the Kalapani area dispute by raising nationalist sentiment, and ultimately it soured relations with India and added a new and emotive irritant.
    • 2015 economic blockade: An economic blockade in 2015 in the Terai region along India’s border with Nepal, which led to acute shortages of fuel, cooking gas, etc., and also a price rise in land-locked Nepal has made Nepal more apprehensive towards its dependency on India for trade routes.
    • Role of China: China is investing heavily in Nepal. Nepal also supports China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China has also given access to Nepal to use its port for trade, which reduces Nepal’s dependence on India. China’s growing role is a cause of concern for India’s strategic interest in the neighborhood.
    • Transboundary water conflicts: Agreements on major rivers like Kosi, Gandak, etc. have been signed; however, there are disputes, which keep arising as fuelled by floods in the Kosi region. Nepal and India disagree on various construction projects on these rivers. Both India and Nepal are lacking in effort and political will to translate potential into reality.

    In this context, India needs to be a sensitive and generous partner to Nepal and improve the ties by incorporating the following measures:

    • It is argued by Some that India should try to shed its image of big brother in the neighborhood and revisit the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship in order to reflect changes and new realities of contemporary bilateral ties.
    • India and Nepal have long historical and cultural ties, which must be leveraged and more people-to-people engagements should be focused upon to reduce the trust deficit that has increased over the period.
    • India and Nepal must chalk out their border issues in a formal and friendly manner, to avoid other disputes, such as the one over the Kalapani area.
    • India should offer a ready and dynamic market for Nepal’s hydropower generating resources. Further, an integrated water management system for the transnational rivers of India and Nepal could also be outlined in the long run.
    • China is winning hearts and minds in Nepal through generous strategic charity. Therefore, the way forward for India is to depart from its exclusively traditional security angle and be proactive with innovative strategies and policies.

    The need today is to avoid rhetoric on territorial nationalism and lay the groundwork for quiet dialogue where both sides display sensitivity as they explore what is feasible.

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Adheesh Raman
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Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: February 11, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Introduce the context of India’s traditional influence in South Asia. Briefly mention the growing presence of China and its implications for India. 2. Impact of China’s Presence on India Security and Sovereignty Challenges Discuss the CPEC’s route through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Fact: ...

upsc: india & neighbourhood
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction China's growing presence in India's neighboring countries has significantly impacted India's strategic interests, necessitating a more active approach in executing its Neighborhood First policy. Challenges to India's Interests Security and Sovereignty: The China-Pakistan EcRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    China’s growing presence in India’s neighboring countries has significantly impacted India’s strategic interests, necessitating a more active approach in executing its Neighborhood First policy.

    Challenges to India’s Interests

    1. Security and Sovereignty: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) traverses through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which India claims as its territory. This not only challenges India’s territorial integrity but also enhances China’s strategic foothold in the region. Additionally, China’s increasing assertiveness on border issues with India and Bhutan has created a security dilemma for New Delhi.
    2. Infrastructure Projects: Chinese investments in critical infrastructure, such as the Hambantota and Colombo ports in Sri Lanka and Gwadar port in Pakistan, have increased China’s proximity to India. These projects are often viewed as part of China’s broader strategy to encircle India.
    3. Debt Trap Diplomacy: China’s financial engagements often lead to unsustainable debt for neighboring countries, compelling them to align their policies against India’s interests. This has been evident in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, where Chinese influence has grown at India’s expense.
    4. Political Interference: China’s involvement in local politics, particularly in Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, undermines India’s traditional influence and complicates its diplomatic relations.
    5. Cultural Relations: China’s soft power initiatives, including COVID-19 assistance and educational scholarships, have enhanced its appeal in the region, diminishing India’s role as the primary developmental partner.

    India’s Response: Neighborhood First Policy

    In response to these challenges, India has actively pursued its Neighborhood First policy, which aims to strengthen ties with its immediate neighbors through:

    • Economic Diplomacy: India has extended lines of credit and developmental assistance to South Asian countries, excluding Pakistan, to foster economic ties.
    • Connectivity Projects: Initiatives like the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal) connectivity project aim to enhance regional cooperation and infrastructure development.
    • International Cooperation: India has engaged with countries like Japan and the USA to undertake developmental projects, thereby countering China’s influence.
    • Political Engagement: India has maintained proactive diplomatic relations, as seen in its quick engagement with the new government in Sri Lanka and similar approaches in Nepal and Bangladesh.

    Conclusion

    India’s Neighborhood First policy is crucial for countering China’s expansionism and reshaping its narrative in the region. Sustaining this proactive approach will be essential for India to reinforce its influence and ensure long-term stability in South Asia.

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Adivk Rawat
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Adivk RawatBegginer
Asked: July 13, 2024In:
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India’s perception as a hegemon and the rise of nationalistic fervor in Nepal suggest that the relationship between the two countries has to be fundamentally reset. Examine.

upsc: india & neighbourhood
  1. Ranjan Gaikwad
    Ranjan Gaikwad Begginer

    India and Nepal share historical, cultural, and religious ties dating back to the era of Gautam Buddha. These ties continued in the modern era too, reinforced by the 1950 Indo-Nepal friendship treaty, economic and strategic compulsions, and people to people relations, commonly called Roti-Beti relatRead more

    India and Nepal share historical, cultural, and religious ties dating back to the era of Gautam Buddha. These ties continued in the modern era too, reinforced by the 1950 Indo-Nepal friendship treaty, economic and strategic compulsions, and people to people relations, commonly called Roti-Beti relations. However, from the past couple of years, Indo-Nepal relations are under severe strain with the Kalapani territorial dispute being the recent one in a long list of grievances Nepal has against India.

    Reasons For Raising Nationalistic Fervor In Nepal

    1. The rise of a new generation of Nepali youth and political elite who does not share the same emotional bond with India.
    2. Nepal was the only officially Hindu state resulting from the Hindu empires from the 18th century to 2006 and was never colonized. But the promulgation of the new secular constitution in 2006 and the abolition of monarchy in 2008, led to resentment contributing to the rise of aggressive Hindu nationalism.
    3. A substantial number of Nepali society believes that India is excessively interfering in Nepal’s internal affairs. The argument is that as long as India continues to meddle in Nepal, there will be nationalism which could lead to ultranationalism, and eventually even militancy.
    4. There are internal differences in Nepal between the prosperous hilly regions and the less developed southern region. To reduce this difference Nepal is institutionalizing federalism.
    5. However, a section of Nepal political parties who stand to lose their hold on power due to this development are using the anti-Indian sentiment to stir nationalistic fervour to foil the attempts of decentralization.
    6. Nepal politics also have a very crucial role to play in this phenomenon. The current Prime Ministers’ domestic position was weakening for some time and the inept handling of the COVID crisis added fuel to fire. Under pressure, he utilized anti-Indian sentiment and nationalism to stir up the Kalapani issue.

    Why India Is Perceived As Hegemon By Nepal

    The rise of Anti-Indian sentiments and nationalism in India was mainly because Nepal is considering India as a hegemon and irked by its big brother attitude. Recent incidents between these two countries have contributed a lot to this sentiment.

    1. Both Nepali Congress — often considered pro-India — and the Communists have decried the alleged “big brother” attitude of India.
    2. Since the 1950s, India has treated Nepal as an extension of its own geographic reality, so much as those allegations of New Delhi’s intervention in Kathmandu’s domestic affairs have been raised at regular intervals.
    3. India’s prompt response in the aftermath of the devastating Nepal earthquake was appreciated. However, the way Indian media presented the whole rescue effort as some kind of a favour bolstered the local antipathy towards Nepal.
    4. The Pro India group enforced a blockade on the India-Nepal border, unhappy over the new constitution which it believed did not do justice to the people of the Terai plains. Nepal alleged this to be planned by India to create internal unrest.
    5. Though Nepal is dependent on India for much of its trade and other infrastructure projects, as a sovereign nation, it is also free to chart its own foreign policy course. However, India’s staunch opposition to Nepal-China relations also is a cause of upset for Nepal.

    Fundamental Reset In Relations

    Apart from the rise of nationalism and India’s perceived hegemony, there are also other reasons for the downturn of relations between these two countries. India is unhappy about closer ties between China-Nepal. Nepal’s developing economy needs huge investments which China is providing, whereas there are extraordinary delays in the completion of infrastructure projects by India, the territorial disputes between the two countries all caused a downturn in the relationship which at this point in time needs a fundamental reset.

    1. Though India has always claimed that two countries claim a special relationship, Nepal for a very long time has been alleging that the terms of the relationship are mostly one-sided.
    2. In light of rising nationalism and anti-Indian sentiment, India needs to renegotiate the 1950 peace treaty incorporating changed circumstances.
    3. Instead of bowing down to political opportunism and rhetoric, both counties should make diplomatic efforts to resolve the territorial disputes.
    4. India should stop looking at Nepal purely from a security prism and be a part of the zerosum game with China and realize the changed ground realities.
    5. Any drastic reset in relations will affect Nepal enormously in the form of ending visa-free travel, disbanding the Gorkha regiment, difficulties for students coming to study in India, etc.
    6. Nepal should also understand these realities and address India’s concerns with regard to China. Nepal ensures that any of its developmental activities with China does not jeopardize India’s strategic interests.

    India in accordance with its neighbour’s first policy must have deeper and meaningful engagement with its smaller neighbours, to understand their fears and concerns, and try to address them in a responsible way.

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Ananya Patel
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Ananya Patel
Asked: July 16, 2024In:
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Analyze India’s “Neighbourhood First” strategy and how it is being applied in real life throughout South Asia. Talk about India’s achievements and difficulties in fostering economic integration, people-to-people ties, and regional connectivity with its neighbors.

upsc: india & neighbourhood
  1. Kusum Mehara
    Kusum Mehara Begginer

    India's "Neighbourhood First" policy aims to prioritize and strengthen relations with its immediate neighbors in South Asia. The practical implementation of this policy has seen a mix of successes and challenges across various dimensions such as regional connectivity, economic integration, and peoplRead more

    India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy aims to prioritize and strengthen relations with its immediate neighbors in South Asia. The practical implementation of this policy has seen a mix of successes and challenges across various dimensions such as regional connectivity, economic integration, and people-to-people ties.

    Successes of India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
    Regional Connectivity Initiatives:

    Infrastructure Projects: India has initiated several infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity with its neighbors. For instance, projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project aim to enhance road and sea connectivity in the region.
    Energy Cooperation: Initiatives like the Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal (BBIN) Initiative for Energy Cooperation have facilitated cross-border energy trade and connectivity.
    Economic Integration:

    Trade Agreements: India has signed bilateral and multilateral trade agreements with neighboring countries to facilitate trade and economic cooperation. For example, the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) aims to promote trade within South Asia.
    Investment: India has made efforts to invest in neighboring countries, supporting infrastructure development, industrial projects, and capacity-building initiatives.
    People-to-People Ties:

    Cultural Exchanges: India promotes cultural exchanges, scholarships, and academic collaborations with neighboring countries to strengthen people-to-people ties.
    Visa Facilitation: Efforts have been made to simplify visa procedures and enhance people-to-people contacts through easier travel arrangements.
    Challenges Faced by India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
    Political Sensitivities:

    Historical Issues: Historical grievances and political differences sometimes hinder cooperation and trust-building efforts between India and its neighbors, especially with countries like Pakistan and Nepal.
    Security Concerns: Security dynamics and border disputes (e.g., with Pakistan and China) can overshadow cooperative efforts and strain relations.
    Infrastructure and Connectivity Constraints:

    Infrastructure Delays: Implementation of infrastructure projects faces challenges such as funding constraints, bureaucratic delays, and logistical issues, which can slow down connectivity improvements.
    Physical Geography: Geographic barriers like mountainous terrain and rivers pose challenges to building efficient transport and connectivity networks.
    Economic Disparities:

    Development Disparities: Economic disparities among South Asian countries affect the pace and extent of economic integration efforts. Less developed countries may struggle to benefit equally from regional economic initiatives.
    Geopolitical Competition:

    External Influences: Geopolitical competition from external powers in South Asia, such as China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), can complicate India’s efforts to assert its influence and maintain leadership in the region.
    Conclusion
    India’s Neighbourhood First policy reflects its commitment to enhancing regional cooperation, connectivity, and economic integration within South Asia. While there have been notable successes in initiatives like infrastructure development and economic cooperation, persistent challenges including political sensitivities, infrastructure constraints, economic disparities, and external geopolitical pressures continue to shape the regional dynamics. Moving forward, addressing these challenges through sustained dialogue, mutual cooperation, and inclusive development strategies will be crucial for realizing the full potential of India’s engagement with its neighbors and fostering stability and prosperity in South Asia.

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Devika C
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Devika CBegginer
Asked: July 19, 2024In:
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How can candidates maintain motivation and mental well-being throughout the long and often strenuous UPSC preparation journey?

upsc: bilateral relationsupsc: elections & representation of people’s actupsc: features of indian constitutionupsc: important international institutionsupsc: india & neighbourhood
  1. Varun Nautiyal
    Varun Nautiyal Begginer

    The UPSC marathon requires mental fortitude alongside intellectual muscle. Here's how aspirants can stay motivated and well: Fuel the Mind and Body: Prioritize quality sleep (7-8 hours) for focus and memory. Eat a balanced diet to keep energy levels high. Schedule regular exercise to combat stress aRead more

    The UPSC marathon requires mental fortitude alongside intellectual muscle. Here’s how aspirants can stay motivated and well:

    1. Fuel the Mind and Body: Prioritize quality sleep (7-8 hours) for focus and memory. Eat a balanced diet to keep energy levels high. Schedule regular exercise to combat stress and improve concentration.
    2. Structure and Breaks: Create a realistic study plan with achievable goals. Break down the syllabus into manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Take short breaks every 45-60 minutes to prevent mental fatigue. Step away from books and unwind with activities you enjoy.
    3. Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate small wins and milestones. Reward yourself for completing tasks to maintain motivation. Track progress in a journal to visualize your journey.
    4. Mindfulness and Support: Practice meditation or deep breathing exercises to manage stress and anxiety. Connect with fellow aspirants for support and share experiences. Talk to friends and family who believe in you. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
    5. Focus on the Why: Remind yourself of your purpose for pursuing the UPSC dream. Visualize the impact you can make as a civil servant. Keep the bigger picture in mind during challenging moments.
    Remember, the UPSC journey is a marathon, not a sprint. By prioritizing well-being alongside studies, aspirants can stay motivated and focused on achieving their dream.
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Diya Desai
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Diya Desai
Asked: July 17, 2024In:
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Talk about how state governments and local communities, for example, play a sub-national role in establishing India’s neighbourhood policy. Examine the prospects and difficulties of including these parties into India’s plans for regional participation.

upsc: india & neighbourhood
  1. Anirudh Singh
    Anirudh Singh Learner

    Sub-national actors, including state governments and local communities, play a significant role in shaping India’s neighborhood policy. Their influence manifests in various ways, impacting regional engagement strategies, diplomatic relations, and economic cooperation. Here’s an analysis of the roleRead more

    Sub-national actors, including state governments and local communities, play a significant role in shaping India’s neighborhood policy. Their influence manifests in various ways, impacting regional engagement strategies, diplomatic relations, and economic cooperation. Here’s an analysis of the role of these stakeholders, along with the challenges and opportunities in integrating them into India’s regional engagement strategies:

    Role of Sub-National Actors
    1. State Governments
    Economic and Trade Relations: State governments in border regions or those with significant economic ties to neighboring countries can influence trade policies, cross-border economic initiatives, and infrastructure projects. For instance, states like West Bengal, Assam, and Punjab have direct economic and cultural interactions with neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan.

    Diplomatic Engagement: State governments often engage in diplomatic activities and exchanges with neighboring countries. They may participate in regional forums, sign bilateral agreements, and host delegations, thereby contributing to the overall neighborhood policy.

    Infrastructure and Development Projects: States involved in cross-border infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and trade routes, play a crucial role in implementing and managing these initiatives. Their local expertise and administrative capabilities are vital for successful project execution.

    Cultural and Social Ties: States with significant border populations often engage in cultural and social exchanges with neighboring regions. This includes organizing cultural festivals, educational exchanges, and community programs that foster goodwill and mutual understanding.

    2. Local Communities
    Cross-Border Relations: Local communities living in border areas frequently interact with communities across the border, impacting grassroots diplomacy and local perceptions of neighboring countries. Their experiences and interactions can influence broader regional policies and cooperation.

    Humanitarian Assistance: Local communities often play a role in providing humanitarian assistance and support during cross-border crises, such as natural disasters or refugee influxes. Their contributions can enhance bilateral relations and regional solidarity.

    Security and Border Management: Local communities can be involved in local security and border management efforts, providing valuable insights and cooperation to state and central authorities.

    Challenges in Integrating Sub-National Actors
    1. Coordination and Alignment
    Policy Alignment: Ensuring that state governments and local communities align with national foreign policy objectives can be challenging. Differences in priorities and perspectives between central and sub-national levels may lead to conflicting approaches or goals.

    Coordination Mechanisms: Effective coordination between central authorities and sub-national actors requires robust mechanisms and communication channels. The lack of formal structures can lead to fragmented efforts and inefficiencies.

    2. Geopolitical Sensitivities
    Regional Disputes: Sub-national actors in border regions may have their own perspectives on regional disputes and relationships with neighboring countries, which may not always align with national policies. Managing these local sentiments can be complex.

    Political Sensitivities: State governments may pursue their own regional agendas, which can sometimes conflict with national interests or broader regional strategies.

    3. Resource Constraints
    Capacity and Resources: Local governments and communities may face limitations in terms of resources, expertise, and capacity to engage effectively in regional diplomacy or cross-border initiatives.

    Implementation Challenges: States and local communities may encounter challenges in implementing cross-border projects or agreements due to administrative, financial, or logistical constraints.

    Opportunities in Integrating Sub-National Actors
    1. Enhanced Regional Engagement
    Localized Initiatives: Leveraging the knowledge and expertise of state governments and local communities can lead to more effective and regionally relevant initiatives. Local insights can inform policies and projects that better address the needs and priorities of border regions.

    Grassroots Diplomacy: Integrating local communities into regional engagement strategies can enhance grassroots diplomacy and foster deeper connections with neighboring countries. This can lead to more sustainable and mutually beneficial relationships.

    2. Strengthened Cooperation
    Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between state governments, local businesses, and communities can facilitate cross-border trade, investment, and infrastructure development. Public-private partnerships can drive economic growth and regional integration.

    Cultural and Educational Exchanges: State and local initiatives in cultural and educational exchanges can promote people-to-people connections and build long-term goodwill with neighboring countries.

    3. Increased Support and Buy-In
    Local Support: Engaging sub-national actors can increase local support for national policies and initiatives, leading to more successful implementation and greater public backing for regional strategies.

    Enhanced Policy Implementation: Local actors can contribute to more effective policy implementation by providing on-the-ground insights and facilitating practical solutions to regional challenges.

    Conclusion
    Sub-national actors, including state governments and local communities, play a crucial role in shaping India’s neighborhood policy through their economic, diplomatic, and cultural interactions. While there are challenges related to coordination, geopolitical sensitivities, and resource constraints, there are also significant opportunities for enhancing regional engagement and cooperation. By integrating these stakeholders into India’s regional strategies, the country can leverage local expertise, foster deeper connections, and achieve more effective and sustainable outcomes in its neighborhood policy.

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Tanu Singh
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Tanu SinghLearner
Asked: June 7, 2024In:
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The need for cross-border connection through sub-regions is growing as India reimagines its surroundings. Examine and evaluate. (Answer in 250 words)

upsc: india & neighbourhood
  1. Kamini g
    Kamini g Learner

    Answer: The idea of re-integrating India's neighborhood through a sub-regional approach began to emerge in the late 1990s, but it was only in the mid-2000s that a sustained push for sub-regional connectivity started to take concrete shape. Recently, marking 50 years of Bangladesh's independence, IndRead more

    Answer: The idea of re-integrating India’s neighborhood through a sub-regional approach began to emerge in the late 1990s, but it was only in the mid-2000s that a sustained push for sub-regional connectivity started to take concrete shape. Recently, marking 50 years of Bangladesh’s independence, India and Bangladesh made a joint decision to explore sub-regional connectivity initiatives with additional road and railway connectivity links to Nepal as well as rail links to Bhutan via Indian Territory. Various steps taken in sub-regional connectivity

    • BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal) sub-regional Motor Vehicle Agreement (MVA) in 2015 bringing together the Bay of Bengal and the Himalayan sub-regions.
    • The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project and the sea-river-land Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project aim to develop transport infrastructure in western Myanmar and North-eastern India to form the key connectivity projects in linking India with the Mekong subregion.
    • The Chabahar agreement between Afghanistan, India, and Iran aims to fulfill the idea of building a sub-region around the Arabian Sea.

    Importance of sub-regional connectivity for India in its neighbourhood

    • To boost trade & commerce: Transport corridors are the arteries through which trade, commerce, and people flow within and across countries.
      • They become platforms for reducing poverty, generating employment, and promoting sustainable development by creating new economic opportunities for the countries being connected.
      • For example, seamless transport connectivity between India and Bangladesh has the potential to increase the national income of Bangladesh by 17 percent and 8 percent in India.
      • Further, improved transport connectivity between India and Bangladesh could increase India’s exports by 172 percent while Bangladesh’s exports to India could almost rise 3 times.
    • Geostrategic response to China: China has massively expanded its diplomatic, economic, and political footprint across South Asia.
      • India needs to rethink its strategy because the default outcome of what the BRI is likely to accomplish in India’s periphery is its steady economic integration with China and the marginalization of India in its own neighborhood.
      • India is the largest transit country in the subcontinent and India’s geographic location and size make it a natural connector for its immediate neighbours and beyond.
    • Countering terrorism and extremism: Improved sub-regional connectivity can also help counter terrorism and extremism by promoting greater understanding and cooperation between neighboring countries and by reducing the opportunities for extremist groups to operate across borders.
    • Better diplomatic relations in the region: Better connectivity in India’s sub-regions will support the idea of wider integration between South Asia, Southeast Asia, West Asia, Central Asia, eastern Africa, and the Indian Ocean where India can take the leading role.
    • Foster Cultural exchange: Sub-regional connectivity will increase India’s engagement with other countries in its neighborhood and help in the development of the region based on the principles of cultural thinking and civilizational ethos.

    However, India’s sub-regional approach towards its neighborhood faces several challenges such as political instability as well as economic imbalances between countries in the region. Further, border disputes between India and some of its neighboring countries can also pose a challenge to sub-regional initiatives, as they can create tensions and disrupt trade and investment flows. Thus, an Indian connectivity strategy will have to consider the political, economic, and cultural sensitivities of the neighboring countries. At the same time, re-integrating the subcontinent by re-discovering the old as well as building new land, sea, and riverine corridors should be a key focus. Moreover, India should invest relatively more in the soft dimensions of connectivity, including capacity building.

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