India grapples with an ASEAN perception plunge

NT Correspondent

New Delhi: As dawn broke over New Delhi, the corridors of power hummed with anticipation.

A decade since Narendra Modi's government unveiled the ambitious 'Act East Policy', a sobering reality check had arrived in the form of the 2024 State of Southeast Asia Survey.

Conducted by Singapore's ASEAN Studies Centre, the survey delivered a harsh truth: India lagged behind as the ninth out of eleven strategic partners for ASEAN member states.

Despite being a significant trading partner, India's influence in the region had waned, casting a shadow over its aspirations to deepen military and strategic alliances with ASEAN nations.

Recent endeavors, like the joint naval exercise with Thailand and the readiness to export BrahMos missiles to the Philippines, showcased India's intentions.

However, these efforts paled in comparison to the region's shifting allegiances.

The survey underscored ASEAN nations' growing affinity towards China, drawn by its economic prowess and expanding influence. For India, this revelation rang alarm bells.

The onceassumed solidarity among ASEAN nations against China's regional assertiveness appeared increasingly fragile.

Concurrently, the United States, India's traditional ally, saw its popularity dwindle due to its stance on global issues, notably the Gaza conflict.

This changing landscape left India facing an urgent need to reassess its Southeast Asia strategy. Within the government's inner sanctums, somber deliberations unfolded as leaders grappled with the ramifications.

The recent visits by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored India's eagerness to mend fraying ties.

Yet, it was abundantly clear that mere symbolism would not suffice. As the day progressed, the urgency permeated every conversation and decision.

India's standing in Southeast Asia hung in the balance, necessitating introspection and bold action.

Hard questions loomed: Where had India faltered? What strategic shifts were imperative to reclaim its foothold in the region? The 'Act East Policy' embodied more than rhetoric; it symbolised a commitment to proactive engagement.

However, without substantive measures, it risked being relegated to mere lip service.

With stakes soaring, the moment demanded resolute leadership and acumen to navigate the intricacies of Southeast Asia's landscape.

As dusk descended, India stood at the crossroads, poised to redefine its role in the Southeast Asian theater.

The journey ahead promised challenges aplenty, but also opportunities for those daring enough to seize them.