ABSTRACT
The Indo-Pacific has emerged as the new construct that better reflects current geopolitical and geoeconomic realities, notwithstanding China’s reservations. Consequently, most countries with and without the region are formulating strategies around this idea. It has gained prominence due to a fundamental shift of global focus to this region because it is the world’s economically most vibrant. Further, it is also beset with many geopolitical uncertainties due to power shifts and intensifying territorial disputes threatening regional stability. As the ASEAN-led multilateralism has failed to make progress in addressing security issues and in the absence of a stable regional power balance, the Quad, although a consultative mechanism among the four prominent countries that share certain basic interests and concerns, is gaining ground to countervail an assertive China and to ensure a smooth transition towards a new security order. In part due to the Indo-Pacific, India has emerged as a key player; however, it is yet to articulate its policy more lucidly, although it has endorsed the idea. India has a lot to gain with the employment of the Indo-Pacific construct as the new template. However, it also warrants greater responsibility and increased participation in regional affairs, both economic and strategic.
