India’s nuanced approach in the South China Sea

Evolution of India’s South China Policy:

• New Delhi’s Indo-Pacific engagement began with the Look East Policy, emphasizing economic integration and energy security.
• PM Narendra Modi’s administration shifted to the Act East Policy, prioritizing strategic partnerships and security cooperation.
• The Act East Policy involves expanded security cooperation with Indo-Pacific nations such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines.
• India bolstered its capabilities through forward positioning, deployments, and enhanced maritime domain awareness.
• India’s stance on the South China Sea is influenced by its complex relationship with China, characterized by border disputes and the Galwan Valley incident.
• India demonstrated its deterrence capabilities by sending a frontline warship to the South China Sea.

Conclusion:

• New Delhi’s strategic recalibration is prompted by the critical importance of the South China Sea to regional security and the global maritime order.
• Disputes in the South China Sea affect freedom of navigation, crucial for India’s trade and energy transportation.
• India, as a responsible stakeholder in the Indo-Pacific, must take clear positions on such crucial matters.
• India’s nuanced approach in the South China Sea demonstrates its commitment to regional stability, security, and respect for international law in the Indo-Pacific.