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.