Abstract
This chapter reveals how India’s policy in South Asia has evolved from cautious reticence to deliberate engagement. The sinews of this new approach hark back to the Gujral Doctrine postulating the need for India to act benevolently towards its neighbours on non-reciprocal basis that benefit the smaller states. The chapter specifically considers the complex relationships between India and each of its neighbours in South Asia. The complicated tapestry of relations ranges from strategic volatility (with Pakistan) to cordial engagement (with Bhutan). However, this work argues that the real litmus test for India’s regional leadership would be for India to work toward a peaceful Afghanistan without getting into a strategic dog fight with Pakistan. In sum, India’s role in South Asia is determinant and if India could actively fulfil its regional responsibilities, this would enhance broader international peace and stability.
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Tripathi, D. (2016). Indian Aspirations and South Asian Realities; Perceived Hegemon or Emerging Leader?. In: Kingah, S., Quiliconi, C. (eds) Global and Regional Leadership of BRICS Countries. United Nations University Series on Regionalism, vol 11. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-22972-0_9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-22972-0_9
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