Rohan Kusnur asked: What can be done to counter the increasing Chinese influence in our neighborhood? I mean diplomatically.

Arvind Gupta replies: The answer is to increase our own influence in the region without giving the impression of being a hegemon. India should leverage the geography and culture of south Asia. It should develop close interdependence with its neighbours. In particular it should contribute to the well being of its neighbours and also of the region. It should be sensitive to their concerns and yet firm on its security interests. Finally, it should let China know that India has legitimate interests in South Asia.