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05 Mar 2026
GS Paper 2
International Relations
Q. How have India’s Act East and Neighbourhood First policies influenced its role in BIMSTEC over the past decade? (Answer in 200 words)
Approach:
- Begin with a brief overview of BIMSTEC as a regional multilateral organization.
- Highlight how the Act East Policy drives connectivity, economic collaboration, maritime security, and cultural exchanges within BIMSTEC. Similarly, explain how the Neighbourhood First Policy strengthens bilateral ties, supports development assistance and promotes regional integration.
- Provide an appropriate conclusion.
Introduction
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), 1997 is a regional multilateral organisation. Its members include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand. India’s Act East and Neighbourhood First policies have played a crucial role in shaping its involvement with the BIMSTEC over the past decade. These strategies aim to enhance regional cooperation, security, and economic development among member states, facilitating a more integrated approach to mutual challenges and opportunities.
Body
India’s Act East Policy and Its Influence on BIMSTEC:
- Enhanced Connectivity Initiatives: The Act East Policy focuses on developing transport and communication infrastructure, facilitating improved connectivity among BIMSTEC member states.
- India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway initiative aims to improve road connectivity among India, Myanmar, and Thailand, facilitating trade and movement within BIMSTEC countries.
- Strengthened Economic Collaboration: By promoting trade agreements and economic partnerships, the policy encourages deeper economic ties and investment opportunities within BIMSTEC.
- The Framework Agreement on the BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signed in February 2004, establishes provisions for negotiating trade in goods, services and investment.
- Focus on Maritime Security: The policy prioritizes maritime cooperation, addressing security challenges in the Bay of Bengal and enhancing collaborative maritime initiatives among member nations.
- PANEX 21 is conducted among BIMSTEC countries.
- Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges: The Act East Policy fosters cultural diplomacy and tourism, promoting exchanges that strengthen social ties among BIMSTEC countries.
India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Its Influence on BIMSTEC:
- Strengthened Diplomatic Relations: The Neighbourhood First policy emphasizes enhancing bilateral ties with neighboring countries, reinforcing India’s influence and leadership within BIMSTEC.
- Development Assistance and Capacity Building: India provides developmental aid and technical assistance to BIMSTEC countries, promoting socio-economic development and regional stability.
- Collaborative Security Framework: The policy encourages collective security measures, focusing on counter-terrorism and disaster management cooperation among BIMSTEC members.
- Promotion of Trade and Economic Integration: The Neighbourhood First policy supports trade facilitation and economic integration efforts within BIMSTEC, creating a more cohesive regional market.
Conclusion
India’s Act East and Neighbourhood First policies have effectively positioned it as a pivotal player in BIMSTEC, fostering collaboration that addresses shared challenges and promotes regional growth. As member states prepare for future summits, the intent to pursue comprehensive partnerships remains a promising path for mutual development and stability in the Bay of Bengal region.
