Skip to Content

India & Neighbors

Detailed analysis of India's 'Neighborhood First' policy relationships.

1

Pakistan

"A relationship defined by historical conflict, territory disputes, and cross-border terrorism."
Way Forward

Strict 'Terror and Talks cannot go together' stance. Focus on isolating Pakistan globally on terror while maintaining functional relations like Indus Waters.

2

China

"Complex mix of economic partnership and strategic rivalry (The 'Competitor-Partner' paradox)."
Way Forward

Managed competition. Reducing economic dependency (PLI schemes). Strengthening border infra. Building counter-alliances (Quad).

3

Nepal

"Roti-Beti ka Rishta (Ties of food and family). Highly integrated but politically sensitive."
Way Forward

Economic integration over political arm-twisting. Fast-tracking connectivity projects to counter Chinese BRI influence.

4

Bangladesh

"The success story of India's neighborhood policy. 'Golden Chapter' in bilateral ties."
Way Forward

Conclusion of Teesta treaty. CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement). Exploring BBIN corridor.

5

Sri Lanka

"Maritime neighbor vital for Indian Ocean security."
Way Forward

Connectivity (Land bridge proposal) and economic integration. Countering Chinese submarine visits.

6

Bhutan

"Time-tested 'Special Friendship'. Hydro-diplomacy anchor."
Way Forward

Maintain primacy in Bhutan's strategic calculus. Accelerate BBIN initiative.

7

Myanmar

"Gateway to ASEAN. Strategic bridge between South & SE Asia."
Way Forward

Balancing act between democratic values and strategic engagement with Junta to counter China.

8

Afghanistan

"Strategic Depth & Historical Goodwill."
Way Forward

Technical engagement without formal recognition. Focus on counter-terror and humanitarian support.

9

Maldives

"Key to Indian Ocean maritime security."
Way Forward

Strategic patience. Showcasing benefits of partnership directly to people (HICDP).

VishwaDrishti • International Relations Module