Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction:

   • Begin with a brief introduction to India’s ‘Look West’ policy, explaining that it focuses on strengthening diplomatic, economic, and security ties with countries in West Asia, such as the Gulf nations, Israel, and Iran.
   • Mention the overall goal of this policy, which is to enhance India’s strategic position in the region and ensure long-term economic and security cooperation.

2. Significance of India’s ‘Look West’ Policy

   • Regional Connectivity:
     • Highlight how India’s ‘Look West’ policy improves regional connectivity, both in terms of infrastructure and trade.
     • Mention key projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which aims to integrate ship-to-rail transit networks for cross-border trade.
   • Trade and Economic Integration:
     • Discuss the economic benefits of India’s engagement with the region. For example, the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement led to a 27.5% increase in bilateral trade.
     • Emphasize how trade partnerships foster economic growth for both India and West Asian countries.
   • Energy Infrastructure:
     • Talk about energy cooperation, such as the India-Saudi Arabia power grid linkage, which strengthens energy security and contributes to mutual economic development.
   • Strategic Cooperation:
     • Mention cooperation in areas like counterterrorism, maritime security, and military exercises with countries like the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.
     • Cite examples of technological cooperation with Israel, such as the 2022 collaboration on electric propulsion systems for space technologies.

3. Challenges in India’s Engagement

   • Balancing Multiple Interests:
     • Discuss the difficulty of maintaining balanced relations with countries that have opposing interests, such as Israel and Arab states. India must navigate the complexities of regional geopolitics, as seen with its relationship with Saudi Arabia and Iran.
   • Energy Security:
     • Explain the vulnerability of India’s energy supply due to its reliance on West Asian oil. Regional instability, such as the conflicts in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq, affects India’s energy security.
   • Rising Influence of China:
     • Highlight China’s growing economic and technological influence in the region, which poses a challenge to India’s interests, especially in UAE and Saudi Arabia where China has strengthened its position.

4. Conclusion

   • Conclude by summarizing the importance of the ‘Look West’ policy in enhancing India’s regional and global standing. Acknowledge the challenges, but emphasize that through multilateral efforts and prudent diplomacy, India can navigate these complexities.

Relevant Facts to Use in the Answer:

1. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor: Aimed at developing a cross-border ship-to-rail transit network to facilitate trade.
2. India-UAE CEPA: The agreement led to a 27.5% increase in bilateral trade between India and the UAE.
3. India-Saudi Arabia Power Grid Link: Agreement to link power grids between India and Saudi Arabia, reinforcing energy security.
4. Military Cooperation with UAE and Oman: Joint military exercises and security cooperation to improve counterterrorism and maritime security.
5. Technological Collaboration with Israel: In 2022, India and Israel collaborated on an electric propulsion system for space technologies.
6. Geopolitical Balancing: India’s careful diplomacy in balancing ties with Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Iran.
7. Energy Dependency: India’s reliance on West Asian oil exposes it to regional instability.
8. China’s Influence: China’s increasing presence in the region, particularly in the technology sector in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia.