The Indo-Pacific has emerged as one of the most dynamic yet contested regions in the world. While global attention shifted toward Europe and the Middle East, China steadily expanded its influence through infrastructure projects, maritime initiatives, and digital connectivity. This expansion has created new dependencies and altered the regional balance—calling for an assertive yet balanced Indian response to restore stability and ensure a free, open, and rules-based order.
India’s maritime geography naturally connects the Indian and Pacific Oceans, making the region critical to its strategic and economic interests. The nation relies heavily on secure sea lanes for energy imports and global trade. A stable Indo-Pacific ensures freedom of navigation, open markets, and uninterrupted commerce. For India, the region represents both a geopolitical frontier and an arena to project its influence as a responsible maritime power.
China has pursued what analysts call an “incremental advantage” strategy—gradually establishing ports, naval bases, and logistics hubs across the Indo-Pacific under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Key examples include Gwadar (Pakistan), Hambantota (Sri Lanka), Kyaukpyu (Myanmar), and Sihanoukville (Cambodia). Though labeled as commercial facilities, many of these are dual-use—capable of supporting military operations in times of crisis. This sustained expansion has strengthened Beijing’s strategic footprint in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
While the United States continues to be the dominant naval power, its focus on Ukraine and West Asia has diluted its engagement in the Indo-Pacific. In this vacuum, smaller Southeast Asian nations, wary of great-power competition, are opting for multi-aligned strategies. Meanwhile, India, Japan, and Australia—under frameworks like the Quad—are taking proactive steps to ensure a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. The regional equation is thus shifting toward a multipolar maritime balance.
India’s Indo-Pacific strategy must integrate diplomacy, defence, and development to achieve comprehensive influence. Key elements include:
• Maritime Security: Strengthen coastal radar networks, submarine capabilities, and island bases such as the Andaman & Nicobar Command.
• Regional Partnerships: Deepen cooperation with ASE
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