Vibhanshu Shekhar asked: What is India's approach towards the Indo-Pacific region?

Rukmani Gupta replies: The term “Indo-Pacific” has gained currency in recent times, largely due to statements regarding the United States’ Rebalance to Asia strategy and an acknowledgement of linkage between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. However, as far as India is concerned, this linkage between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific traversing the waters of Southeast Asia is nothing new. In 2004, the Indian Maritime Doctrine alluded to “the shift in global maritime focus from the Atlantic-Pacific combine to the Pacific-Indian”. Therefore, beyond the Indian Ocean, the Western Pacific has for some time now been identified as falling within the ambit of India's security interests.

The focus on maritime issues is evident from the increase in maritime exchanges led by the Indian Navy with countries, such as, Vietnam, Singapore and Japan. India’s approach to the region is exemplified by its evolving Look East Policy, beginning with economic engagement with Southeast Asia and now expanding to strategic cooperation beyond Southeast Asia. The US’ Rebalance to Asia no doubt highlights the importance of the “Indo-Pacific” concept and generates much speculation regarding the interaction between the US, its regional allies, India and China. It has been identified as a realm of great power rivalry by many. However, for India the region’s importance is neither a new development nor is it dictated by a shift in the American focus.