A Decade of India’s Act East Policy: Achievements and Future Prospects

Understanding India’s Act East Policy at the 10-Year Mark

In 2014, India launched the Act East Policy (AEP) as an enhancement of the earlier Look East Policy (LEP). This strategic initiative aims to bolster India's engagement with Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region through multifaceted cooperation in strategic, economic, and cultural domains.

The Evolution of the Act East Policy

The transition from LEP to AEP signaled a shift from a predominantly economic focus to a more comprehensive approach. This includes integrating security cooperation, enhancing regional connectivity, and fostering institutional engagement. The core of AEP lies in the four Cs: Culture, Connectivity, Commerce, and Capacity Building, which steer India's diplomatic and strategic efforts in the region.

Distinguishing Features of AEP

While the LEP, initiated in the early 1990s, centered on economic ties with Southeast Asia, the AEP, introduced in 2014, expanded the agenda to incorporate security cooperation and strategic partnerships within the Indo-Pacific. This policy aims to transform India’s role from merely "looking east" to actively engaging with the region.

Achievements of the Act East Policy

Over the last decade, AEP has significantly strengthened India’s strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific. Noteworthy achievements include:

• Elevated Relations: India’s relationship with ASEAN has been elevated to a strategic partnership with cooperation in defense, trade, and cultural exchanges.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy: AEP has been instrumental in promoting maritime security and regional stability.
• Infrastructure Initiatives: Projects such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway have been designed to enhance connectivity.

Aligning with the Indo-Pacific Strategy

AEP is central to India's Indo-Pacific strategy, emphasizing maritime security, defense diplomacy, and counter-terrorism efforts. It supports a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, countering regional challenges like China’s assertiveness.

Enhancing Connectivity

Under AEP, India aims to boost regional connectivity through initiatives such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and port access agreements with countries like Bangladesh, thereby improving trade routes and fostering economic cooperation.

The Role of AEP in India-ASEAN Relations

AEP has transformed India-ASEAN relations into a strategic partnership. This involves annual summits and collaborations across trade, technology, and defense, alongside cultural exchange and increased investments.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite progress, AEP has faced challenges, such as delays in connectivity projects and the influence of China on regional economics. The underdeveloped northeastern region of India also presents barriers to integration with Southeast Asia.

Looking forward, AEP aims to strengthen maritime infrastructure, build robust strategic partnerships with ASEAN and Quad nations, and leverage digital connectivity along with soft power to deepen ties with Southeast Asian countries.