The Indian Army’s T-90 Bheeshma tanks made a grand appearance during the final rehearsal for the Indian Republic Day parade in New Delhi on January 23, 2009. India is now making significant efforts to expand its influence in Southeast Asia, a move aimed at countering China’s dominance in the region. According to Harsh V. Pant, vice president for studies and foreign policy at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi, India’s ambition in Southeast Asia is evident, and it has become more assertive in its ties with the region. The growing rivalry between India and China has played a role in shaping India’s strategy and presence in Southeast Asia. In the past, Indian leaders were hesitant to get involved in the region due to tensions with China along the Himalayan border. However, since the border clash in 2020, where 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives, India no longer sees the need to be cautious and now seeks tangible benefits from engaging with Southeast Asia. India has been forging closer ties with countries in the region to ensure it has some leverage against China. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has been actively reaching out to Southeast Asian countries to balance China’s aggression. India’s ongoing comprehensive strategic partnership with Southeast Asia has been reinforced through various initiatives. For example, India provided a naval warship to Vietnam and has been training pilots and ground crew of fighter jets for the Vietnam Air Force. India has also been involved in the South China Sea dispute, urging China to abide by The Hague’s 2016 arbitration decision. This reflects India’s determination to bolster strategic ties with Southeast Asian states and help them counterbalance Chinese power. China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Southeast Asia has also played a role in India’s calculation, as it raises concerns about regional security and maritime security. While most countries in the region have supported China’s infrastructure project, India’s independent foreign policy and growing influence in the region offer an alternative option for countries that seek to remain neutral in the US-China conflict. India’s standing among Southeast Asian nations has improved, and it is seen as an important partner in shaping a more multipolar order. However, China is not oblivious to India’s moves and will be cautious about the developments. Nevertheless, India will continue to push into the region as Southeast Asia is a central pillar of India’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
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