The world order today is in ‘flux’ (M. K. Narayanan). In this context, “India is shaping up to be the trusted partner in a turbulent world.” (S. Jaishankar)
China’s Dominance
Political
Alternative governance and development model of authoritarian capitalism
Strategic assertion in South China Sea, Taiwan Strait, and Indian Ocean. Eg- boiling frog strategy
Dual-use infrastructure- Eg- BRI ports and bases (Djibouti, Gwadar).
Economic
Parallel institutional ecosystem- Creation of AIIB, NDB, and BRI
Complex interdependence- 18% of world GDP, major supplier in 70% of global supply chains.
Debt Trap diplomacy through BRI loans and surplus-deficit strategies. Eg- Sri Lanka
Weaponisation of supply chains – Eg- export restrictions on rare earths
India’s Emerging Role as an Alternative to China
(A) Geoeconomic Dimension – Supply Chain Diversification
“China+1” Strategy-
Global firms (Apple, Foxconn, Dell, Samsung) shifting manufacturing to India.
India’s PLI Scheme attracted global investment in electronics, semiconductors, and solar.
Recent FTA with UK
Resilient Supply Chain Initiative by India, Japan, and Australia to reduce dependence on Chinese manufacturing.
US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET, 2023)- Cooperation in semiconductors, AI, quantum computing, and space.
EU-India Trade and Technology Council (TTC, 2023)- Platform for technology, green energy, and digital infrastructure collaboration.
(B) Strategic and Geopolitical Dimension
Indo-Pacific Strategy-
India is central to US-led Indo-Pacific vision ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Participation in QUAD (India, US, Japan, Australia) to balance China’s maritime influence.
Increasing defence trade and interoperability under COMCASA, BECA, LEMOA agreements.
Critical Minerals Partnership (2022) to counter China’s monopoly in rare earth supply chains
Infrastructure Connectivity- IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor, 2023) launched at G20 to provide an alternative to China’s BRI.
(C) Multilateral and Institutional Cooperation
India’s G20 Presidency (2023) strengthened its global credibility as a bridge between Global North and South.
Western nations back India’s UNSC reform demand, recognizing its role in a multipolar world.
ASEAN Countries and CARs as well as Russia support India’s role in ASEAN and SCO respectively as a counterbalance to China
As the centre of gravity of world politics is shifting towards Indo-Pacific, India’s role is going to be critical in shaping 21st century great power dynamics.