BJP's Eastern mandate offers opportunity to revitalise India's foreign policy in its neighbourhood
C Raja Mohan argues that the BJP's rise in West Bengal and consolidation in Assam, coupled with leadership transitions in Dhaka and Kathmandu, presents a unique opportunity for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to revitalise India's engagement with its eastern neighbourhood. Historically, divergences between the Centre and border states have complicated foreign policy. The current political alignment allows for better coordination of local and national interests, overcoming past hurdles like the Teesta water-sharing agreement. This new geopolitical landscape, combined with Modi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, offers a chance to advance sub-regional cooperation and address complex issues like migration, trade barriers, and water sharing.
Key Points
- The BJP's political strength in West Bengal and Assam creates a favorable environment for India's eastern foreign policy.
- Leadership changes in Bangladesh and Nepal offer new opportunities for regional engagement.
- Historical divergences between the Centre and border states have often complicated India's neighborhood policy.
- The current political alignment can facilitate better coordination of local and national interests in foreign policy.
- Modi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, combined with these developments, aims to advance sub-regional cooperation and address complex issues.
Exam Facts
- Policy mentioned: 'Neighbourhood First' policy
- Past agreement failure: Teesta water-sharing agreement (2011)
- Past success: Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) with Bangladesh (2014)
- Author: C. Raja Mohan
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