India’s Nuanced Approach in the South China Sea

GS-2 Mains

Short Notes or Revision Notes 

Question : Discuss the global implications of India’s nuanced approach in the South China Sea amidst shifting power dynamics and emerging disruptions in the international order.

Shifting Policy:

• Initially economic focus (Look East Policy) for:
  • Integration with Southeast Asia
  • Securing energy resources
• Transition to Act East Policy under Modi:
  • More strategic and active engagement
  • Focus on security partnerships (Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines)
  • Strengthening own military capabilities

China Factor:

• Complex relationship with China:
  • Long history of border disputes (Galwan Valley incident 2020)
• India’s actions:
  • Sent warship to South China Sea (2020)
  • Increased naval exercises and military cooperation with Southeast Asia (counter to China)

ASEAN and India:

• Importance of freedom of navigation for India’s trade.
• India as a responsible stakeholder:
  • Supports ASEAN centrality (despite internal divisions)
  • Opposes unilateral actions that threaten regional stability

India’s Stance:

• Advocates for rules-based order (UNCLOS).
• Challenges China’s territorial claims indirectly.
• Positions itself as a responsible player for regional security.

 

 

 

 

The Hindu Editorial Summary -Topic : World in Disarray

GS-2 Mains

Short Notes or Revision Notes 

Geopolitical Chaos:

• “Rules-based international order” (Western-created) is fading.
• Rise of China and weakening West led to new, unstable alliances.
• Limited “shooting wars” but overall global chaos.
• Lack of strong, influential global leaders.

Shifting Power Dynamics:

• Great power rivalry seems less meaningful.
• US and China engage in proxy conflicts.
• US struggles to overcome recent setbacks (Afghanistan 2020).
• Europe relies on NATO for defense, has limited influence.
• China operates more cautiously, yet forges new West Asian alliances.
• China-Russia-Iran axis challenges US dominance in West Asia.

Potential Disruptors:

• Oil politics: Growing China-Russia-Iran alliance may reshape oil markets.
• Technology:
  • Nations protect vital technologies for national security.
  • Artificial intelligence disrupts warfare, empowers smaller nations.
• Nuclear proliferation:
  • Arms control agreements weaken.
  • New nuclear warheads and missiles potentially being developed.
  • Risk of nuclear use by existing powers may increase.

Conclusion:

• World leaders ignore forecasts about declining global economies.