India’s South Asia Strategy Explained: The “Neighbourhood Shaping” Doctrine and Its Impact

It seems that the policy of India in regard to South Asia is gradually moving from “Neighbourhood First” towards “neighbourhood shaping.” The difference is significant: while the old policy was aimed at fostering friendly relations with its neighbours, the new policy puts more stress on the shaping of the surrounding economic, security, connectivity and strategic environment.

South Asia is important for India not only because it represents its geographical neighborhood but also because it is the region that concerns the national security, trade routes, energy needs and geopolitical aspirations of India.

From “Neighbourhood First” to “Neighbourhood Shaping”

The policy of Neighborhood First aimed at promoting closer links between India and its neighbors in the fields of politics, economics and even people to people contact. With time, the dynamics of regional rivalry and new political equations have made the task of merely sustaining relations quite tough.

The idea of “neighborhood shaping” is a more pro-active strategy. Rather than reacting to situations as they arise, India aims to create circumstances that would suit its strategic interests. In such a case, connectivity initiatives, infrastructure investments, development assistance, energy collaboration and defense partnership become key tools of diplomacy in the region.

The aim is not always domination, but rather being indispensable.

Why Geography Makes South Asia Crucial for India

India’s geographical positioning has given strategic significance to South Asia. India shares boundaries with several neighbours in addition to having a huge coastline which connects it to the Indian Ocean.

Hence, political instability, terrorism, smuggling, migration pressure or even strategic rivalry in neighbouring countries can directly affect India. On the other hand, peace and integration among the neighbours can provide economic opportunities to India.

Thus, neighbourhood management forms an important aspect of India’s foreign policy approach.

China Has an Important Role

One of the major factors which have influenced India’s South Asia approach is China’s growing presence in the region.

Through various infrastructural funding, ports, road connectivity, energy projects and BRI, China has established considerable economic ties in South Asia. India has thus become more concerned about ensuring that its neighbours have other options available and do not become too dependent on one outside power.

India’s answer to this involves developing its connectivity and development links. Economic connectivity projects between India and its neighbours are now seen as a part of the wider strategic framework.

This is where ‘shaping of the neighbourhood’ plays an important role.

Connectivity as a Strategic Tool

Connections by transport and energy systems are crucial to India’s regional strategy. Transport links, railway connections, power systems and information links can be used to better connect neighboring economies with India.

A particular example is that of Bangladesh, as the geographical location of this country can serve as a bridge between the northeastern regions of India and other Indian regions. On the other hand, cooperation in the field of energy can benefit not only Nepal and Bhutan but also contribute to meeting India’s energy demands.

In such a way, these projects create common economic interests, and, consequently, the relations in the region are based not only on political rhetoric but also on cooperation.

The Security Dimension

Along with the economic dimension, security issues remain an essential aspect of India’s regional strategy.

India is extremely sensitive about developments in regions near its borders and in the Indian Ocean. Therefore, maritime security, anti-terrorism measures, defense cooperation and border cooperation still remain crucial for India.

India’s relations with Sri Lanka and Maldives are crucial due to their strategic locations in the Indian Ocean.

Managing Political Changes in Neighbouring Countries

The main problem for India lies in the unpredictable nature of South Asian politics. Governments may change, and public opinion may shift; hence, political movements within the country could change its foreign policy approach.

A good neighbourhood policy should therefore ensure that India is able to build ties not only with governments, but also with various other sectors, such as business, civil society, the youth and the culture of the country in question.

It is even more important in cases where political changes create uncertainty in those countries with which India has traditionally had close ties.

What “Neighbourhood Shaping” Means for the Region

Assuming that this policy works for India, the region can develop into a well-connected economy via Indian market, infrastructure and logistics.

This will be advantageous for other countries in terms of gaining access to a big economy, investments, energy cooperation and transport networks. But even the small countries should keep in mind that they need to preserve strategic autonomy and balance relations between India and China.

Thus, the issue facing India is not just extending its influence but making its influence attractive to others.

Conclusion

Indian South Asia policy, which was previously based on “Neighbourhood First”, is now moving towards the concept of “shaping the neighbourhood”. This strategy involves a combination of diplomacy, economic integration, connectivity, energy, and security to establish a regional environment conducive for India’s interest.

The success of this strategy would, however, hinge on whether or not Indian policy makers can reconcile their aspirations with the sovereignty and political sensitivities of the neighbors. Influence in South Asia cannot be achieved simply because of geographical proximity. It has to come through building trust, connectivity and economic gains.

The whole concept of “shaping the neighborhood” is all about being proactive rather than being reactive creating an environment conducive for New Delhi’s interests in South Asia.

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