Introduction to Neighbourhood First Policy
The Neighbourhood First policy is a significant cornerstone of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic agenda, aiming to strengthen ties with South Asian nations. This initiative reflects Modi's vision of fostering close-knit relationships that can lead to shared economic advancement and socio-political stability in the region. During the election campaign preceding his assumption of office, Modi made clear that enhancing relations with neighboring countries was a priority, setting the tone for an approach that emphasizes cooperation and collaboration.
Initial Steps and Engagement
To demonstrate his commitment to this policy immediately upon taking the office, Modi invited the leaders of all South Asian countries to his inauguration. This groundbreaking gesture underscored the importance he placed on regional unity and partnership. Following this, during his first official acts in office, he engaged in bilateral discussions with each head of state, an event that the media aptly termed a 'mini SAARC summit.' This immediate outreach not only established a dialogue with neighboring nations but also set a precedent for future interactions grounded in respect and mutual benefit.
Technological Advancements for Regional Cooperation
Further emphasizing his commitment to regional development, Modi called upon Indian scientists at an ISRO launch event to create a dedicated SAARC satellite. This initiative aims to extend the benefits of Indian technological advancements, such as telemedicine and e-learning, to the entire South Asian community. By doing so, the Neighbourhood First policy seeks to harness technology as a tool for social development, enhancing health care access and educational opportunities across borders. This vision of shared resources aligns with the goals of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme, which has been instrumental in fostering developmental projects in the region.
Conclusion
Overall, the Neighbourhood First policy embodies a strategic approach to foreign relations in South Asia, characterized by a blend of diplomatic engagement, technological innovation, and economic collaboration. Through his early actions as Prime Minister, Modi has underscored the importance of not only inviting dialogue but also facilitating tangible advancements that can uplift the region as a whole. This policy seeks to create a framework for ongoing cooperation that can lead to a more integrated and prosperous South Asia.
Afghanistan presents a complex geopolitical landscape, particularly for neighboring India, which has historically positioned itself as a key ally of the Afghan state. One of the earliest significant challenges faced by the Indian government was the attack on its consulate in Herat by a terrorist organization believed to be backed by the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan. This incident occurred just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration, underscoring the precarious security situation in Afghanistan. In response to the growing threats from destabilizing forces, India has sought to reinforce its relationship with Afghanistan, as highlighted by Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit to the war-torn nation shortly thereafter. During her visit on September 10, she acknowledged India’s position as Afghanistan's first strategic partner, emphasizing India's commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the Afghan National Army.
India's approach to supporting Afghanistan has been cautious, particularly given the fragile security environment exacerbated by the withdrawal of NATO forces at the end of 2014. Concerns over the potential resurgence of organizations such as the Taliban and al-Qaeda have been paramount within Indian security circles. Furthermore, while affirming its commitment to help strengthen the Afghan military, India has refrained from deploying its own troops or exporting military hardware directly. Instead, it chose to finance the purchase of arms from Russia in accordance with prior arrangements, ensuring that Afghanistan could bolster its defense capabilities without direct Indian military involvement.
The political developments within Afghanistan also garnered significant attention from India. Notably, Hamid Ansari, then Vice-President of India, attended the inauguration ceremony of the new Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah on September 29, 2014. The formation of the new government was seen as a hopeful step forward, particularly as it facilitated the signing of a Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA) with the United States. This agreement was pivotal as it would permit around 10,000 U.S. troops to remain in Afghanistan beyond the NATO withdrawal, thereby contributing to the stabilization efforts in the region.
In line with its commitment to strengthening ties with Afghanistan, India is also engaged in revitalizing an existing agreement to modernize the Chabahar Port in Iran. This strategic initiative aims to provide Afghanistan with a reliable alternative sea route, circumventing the obstacles posed by Pakistan’s transit policies, particularly through the Karachi Port. By enhancing maritime access, India seeks to bolster its investments in Afghanistan, facilitate trade, and support the country's economic independence. This multifaceted approach demonstrates India's long-term commitment to partnering with Afghanistan, ensuring stability in the region while also countering the influence of adversarial forces.
Bhutan stands as a pivotal partner in India's foreign policy, underscored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's significant first foreign visit to the kingdom in June 2014. Upon receiving an invitation from King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and former Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Modi's journey was not only a gesture of goodwill but also a strategic move amidst the backdrop of evolving Bhutan-China relations. The visit was aptly characterized by the media as a "charm offensive," reflective of India's intent to strengthen its ties with Bhutan and counterbalance the influence that China was beginning to cultivate in the region.
During his time in Bhutan, Modi's discussions emphasized enhancing business partnerships between the two nations, with particular focus on vital sectors such as hydroelectric power. Hydro-electric projects form a cornerstone of Bhutan's economy, and India has been a crucial partner in developing these resources. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the India-funded Supreme Court of Bhutan building, symbolizing India's commitment to supporting Bhutanese governance and the rule of law. Modi remarked that Bhutan was a "natural choice" for his inaugural foreign visit, denoting the "unique and special relationship" that India and Bhutan share, which has been characterized by mutual trust, respect, and cooperation.
Modi's delegation included several high-ranking officials, such as Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh, indicating the importance of the trip. The agenda was comprehensive, encompassing discussions on regional security issues, including the persistent insurgency challenges in Northeast India. Moreover, the evolving dynamics with China were also a key aspect of the dialogue, reflecting India's strategic interests in maintaining a stable and cooperative neighborhood.
By fostering closer ties with Bhutan, India aims to reinforce its position in the region while addressing broader geopolitical shifts. The emphasis on partnership and development illustrated in Modi's visit underscores India's commitment to nurturing long-standing ties with its neighbors, which is essential for promoting stability and progress in South Asia. This visit symbolized a reaffirmation of India's role as a supportive ally in the region, navigating through the complexities of regional politics while aiming for sustainable growth and development.
Bangladesh has been a focal point of geopolitical discussions, particularly in the context of India's foreign policy towards its neighboring countries. During the recent election campaign in India, concerns were amplified regarding Bangladeshi illegal immigrants, which sparked worry among the Bangladeshi populace. However, it was Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's response to Modi's electoral victory that underscored the enduring friendship between the two nations. She expressed her optimism about the continuation of strong ties, stating, "I am delighted to see a great friend of Bangladesh leading an extremely friendly country, India, in the coming days." This commendation reflects the deep-rooted historical and cultural connections shared by the two nations.
The new Indian government recognized the significance of Bangladesh in its national security framework, emphasizing its geo-strategic importance. Consequently, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj chose Dhaka as the destination for her first official visit, which took place from June 26 to 27, 2014. This visit highlighted India's intention to strengthen bilateral relations. During her discussions with Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, a range of crucial topics were addressed, including the long-discussed land boundary agreement (LBA) and the proposed Teesta water sharing pact. They also explored cooperative measures to combat the activities of extremist groups that seek refuge in Bangladesh and the sensitive issue of illegal immigration.
Furthermore, to avoid the pitfalls experienced by the previous UPA government, Swaraj methodically engaged with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss contentious matters surrounding Bengal before her journey to Dhaka. This move indicated a shift towards a more decentralized and consultative approach in India's foreign policy concerning its neighbors.
The interaction between Modi and Hasina further solidified their partnership, demonstrating a proactive engagement strategy. Their first meeting took place during the United Nations General Assembly in New York City in September 2014. In this encounter, they addressed several critical issues including mechanisms to deter terrorist infiltration through the extensive Indo-Bangla border and the importance of upholding democratic stability in Bangladesh. They also reaffirmed their commitment to regular discussions around pivotal topics such as water-sharing agreements and land boundary disputes, marking a significant milestone in their diplomatic relations. The leaders' willingness to collaborate on these vital issues reflects an understanding of the intertwined fates of the two countries and underscores their shared interests in fostering a secure and prosperous region.
Maldives has always played an essential role in the broader strategic landscape of the Indian Ocean, particularly given its proximity to major maritime routes crucial for international trade. The backdrop of the Maldives' engagement with India through the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) highlights the significance of Maldives in India's neighborhood policy. The relationship gained momentum when the Maldivian President was among the few leaders who attended Prime Minister Modi's inauguration in Delhi, signaling a commitment to enhancing bilateral ties.
In light of this renewed focus, India's Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj made her inaugural visit to Malé on November 3, 2014. This visit was pivotal, as it offered a platform for high-level discussions between Swaraj and her Maldivian counterpart, Dunya Maumoon. They deliberated on various bilateral and regional issues emphasizing mutual interests ranging from economic cooperation to security partnerships. Building on the foundation laid during this visit, both nations embarked on plans to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations, which reflects the depth and longevity of ties between India and the Maldives. This celebratory milestone serves as a reminder of the cooperative spirit that has historically characterized their interactions.
However, the Maldives faced a significant challenge with a drinking water crisis that erupted on December 4, 2014, after the failure of its only water treatment facility in Malé. Responding promptly to the urgent call for assistance, India extended humanitarian aid, exemplifying its commitment to supporting its neighbors in times of distress. The Indian government's swift action involved the deployment of heavy-lift transport aircraft, including C-17 Globemaster III and Il-76, which ferried much-needed bottled water to the Maldivian capital. Additionally, the Indian Navy contributed to the relief efforts by dispatching ships like INS Sukanya and INS Deepak, equipped with onboard desalination plants capable of producing fresh water.
The prompt humanitarian response not only alleviated the immediate crisis but also reinforced the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations. The Maldivian populace generally received India's efforts with gratitude, and even high-ranking officials, such as the Vice-President of Maldives, took the initiative to express their appreciation to the Indian ambassador for the prompt and decisive action. This goodwill building during times of crisis further cements India's role as a reliable partner in the region, aligning with the overarching goals of the Neighbourhood First policy, which seeks to prioritize relationships with neighboring nations for mutual benefit and stability.
Nepal holds a significant place in India's neighborhood policy, a fact underscored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's choice to visit the country early in his tenure. His visit to Kathmandu on August 3-4, 2014, marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years and was celebrated with great enthusiasm among the Nepali populace and political leaders. Modi's warm reception, which included the Nepalese Prime Minister greeting him at the airport against diplomatic protocol, highlighted the potential for strengthening ties amidst regional ambitions. During this visit, he addressed the Nepali Constituent Assembly, a gesture of respect and recognition, and became the first world leader to do so, indicating a desire for a deeper engagement with Nepal.
Modi's commitment to Nepal's development was made clear when he announced a US$1 billion line of credit for infrastructure projects, emphasizing the idea of mutual benefit and interdependence. One of his notable assertions was that "Nepal can free India of its darkness with its electricity," showcasing his vision for Nepal's role in the energy landscape. He stressed a desire for trade rather than charity, asserting that Nepal could elevate its status among developed nations by selling electricity to India. Modi's proclamation that "borders must be bridges not barriers" resonated well with the sentiment of fostering economic cooperation and free trade. The reception of Modi's initiatives was overwhelmingly positive within Nepali media; the Kathmandu Post remarked, "Modi mantra warms Nepal's hearts," reflecting the optimism surrounding the new phase in India-Nepal relations.
Furthermore, his visit coincided with an important cultural gesture; Modi participated in a ritual at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, contributing significantly to the local Hindu culture and indicating India's respect towards Nepal's spiritual heritage. This was pivotal in reinforcing the shared Hindu identity that links both countries. Modi also pledged to respect Nepal's sovereignty by ensuring non-interference in its internal matters, a critical reassurance following past controversies. His visit was preceded by Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj's trip to Nepal, which laid the groundwork for Modi's discussions focusing on the historical Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship and various infrastructure initiatives.
Modi's second visit to Nepal later in 2014 for the SAARC summit further cemented his administration's dedication to Southeast Asian regional ties. During this visit, he inaugurated a high-tech trauma-care center, representing India's goodwill and support for Nepal's healthcare infrastructure. The introduction of the Kathmandu-Delhi bus service also served as a means to enhance people-to-people connectivity between the two nations. Additionally, Modi presented a HAL Dhruv advanced helicopter to Nepal's armed forces, underscoring the importance of defense cooperation. A series of 10 agreements and memorandums were signed, including pivotal agreements for power trade and transmission, allowing Indian investments in Nepal’s hydroelectric development, which would play a crucial role in strengthening economic ties.
Despite these positive developments, Modi did face challenges. His urging of Nepalese lawmakers to finalize the new constitution on time garnered mixed responses from the Nepali media. While some appreciated the advise as constructive, others interpreted it as an overstep into Nepal's domestic affairs, indicating the delicate balance of diplomacy in the region. As both nations continue to navigate their historical ties and contemporary challenges, Modi's engagements have laid a foundation that emphasizes collaboration, mutual respect, and shared aspirations for growth. This burgeoning relationship serves as a strategic pillar in India's broader neighborhood policy, designed to enhance stability, foster development, and underline India’s commitment to its immediate neighbors.
Pakistan's relationship with India has historically been fraught with tension, particularly under the leadership of figures like Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi's tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat was marked by a staunch hardline nationalist approach, particularly towards Pakistan, often perceived as a promoter of aggressive measures against terrorist activities sponsored from across the border. However, a notable shift occurred post-elections when Modi, in an unexpected diplomatic overture, invited Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to his swearing-in ceremony in May 2014. This gesture was seen as a significant attempt to foster dialogue and improve bilateral ties, a move that even his critics found commendable.
Following the initial meeting on the day after Modi's inauguration, where both leaders expressed a desire to move forward with Foreign Secretary level talks, hopes for a thaw in relations were high. However, these ambitions were thwarted when India abruptly cancelled the scheduled talks on August 25, citing concerns over the Pakistani high commissioner's meeting with separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir. This decision not only indicated India's strong stance against perceived interference in its internal affairs but also created further obstacles for a potential Modi-Sharif encounter at the United Nations General Assembly in New York later that year.
The diplomatic landscape between the two nations continued to deteriorate as military exchanges ramped up along the International Border and the Line of Control. India accused Pakistan of multiple ceasefire violations, exacerbating already fragile relations and leading to heightened military confrontation. In response to these developments, Pakistan sought to bring international attention to the ongoing conflict, appealing for intervention from the United Nations. However, the UN urged both countries to resolve their issues bilaterally, referencing the Simla Agreement, which emphasized dialogue as the means to resolve the Kashmir dispute.
Amidst this backdrop of tension, both leaders were set to attend the 18th SAARC summit in Kathmandu, Nepal, scheduled for November 26–27. Analysts and experts, however, expressed skepticism regarding the potential for constructive dialogue at the summit. The future of India-Pakistan relations appeared contingent on how both Modi and Sharif managed their differences in this multilayered dispute. The outcome of the summit would be critical, as regional cooperation hinges on the ability of these leaders to navigate their contrasting national narratives and historic grievances, an essential step for any meaningful progress in what has been a long-standing and deeply contentious relationship.
Sri Lanka has historically maintained a complex relationship with India, navigating various political dynamics and external influences. Despite being India's closest neighbor, bilateral relations faced significant challenges during the last decade. These strains were primarily attributed to the large-scale civilian casualties during the civil war in the Tamil-dominated northern regions of the country, compounded by the growing influence of China within Sri Lanka. This influence was particularly concerning for India, given Sri Lanka's strategic position off the coast of South India. In an attempt to revitalize these ties, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended a cordial invitation to President Mahinda Rajapaksa for his inauguration in Delhi, a decision that reportedly faced backlash from Tamil Nadu's political circles.
India's primary concern regarding Sri Lanka during this period was the increasing Chinese investments and military presence that threatened to alter the strategic balance in the Indian Ocean. A notable incident occurred in November 2014 when Sri Lankan authorities permitted a second nuclear-powered Chinese submarine to dock at Colombo, igniting concerns in India. This followed a similar incident in which a Chinese submarine made a port call shortly before tensions rose between Indian and Chinese troops in the Himalayas. While Sri Lanka and China later characterized these visits as necessary for refueling and crew refreshments, the implications for regional security remained a point of contention for New Delhi.
The political landscape in Sri Lanka began to shift following the 2015 presidential election, which saw Maithripala Sirisena, a former ally of Rajapaksa, emerge victorious. This election was clouded with allegations of foreign interference, with claims that India played a role in facilitating the regime change in Colombo. Modi was quick to respond to the election results, becoming the first foreign leader to congratulate Sirisena before the formal announcement was made. Sirisena's administration aimed to recalibrate Sri Lanka's foreign policy and reduce its growing dependency on China. Notably, his inaugural state visit to India in February 2015 was a clear indication of a renewed diplomatic approach. During this visit, the two nations signed a crucial civil nuclear agreement, which symbolized a strategic pivot and a united front against potential Chinese expansionism in the region.
India's engagements with Sri Lanka continued to evolve, as evidenced by Prime Minister Modi's visit to the island nation in March 2015, the first by an Indian prime minister in nearly three decades. This visit underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral ties and marked a substantial step towards greater cooperation. However, even under the Sirisena administration, challenges persisted, especially with the approval of a US$1.4 billion Chinese project aimed at developing a 'port city' off the Colombo harbor. This project, while economically significant, raised suspicions regarding its implications for India's strategic interests in the region, revealing the nuanced balancing act Sri Lanka continues to navigate amidst competing influences from its powerful neighbors.