Sino-Indian Counter-Balancing Strategies in the Indian Ocean: An Analysis

Abstract

This research paper is an attempt to offer a detailed analysis of the growing Sino-Indian strategic rivalry in the Indian Ocean. Indian Ocean is at the center of major geo-political events unfolding in Asia due to its historical, political, security and economic significance. Various actors have converging and overlapping strategic interests in the IOR that generates competition among them. India wants to achieve the status of a regional hegemon. Likewise, China is focusing on enhancing its economic and military capabilities to become a world power. These competing powers are indulged in counter balancing against each other to consolidate their strategic hold in the region. In response to Chinese BRI, India has initiated “Act East Policy” along with increasing cooperation with its neighbors. This research has been conducted by employing qualitative research method. Secondary sources of data have taken from existing literature, journals and research articles. Main finding of this research is that both states are seemed to be indulged in a never-ending competition which can be intensified in future. Therefore, they should increase cooperation in economic and maritime spheres to reduce the chances of clash between them.