This dissertation examines India’s strategic engagement with Southeast Asia within the broader framework of the Act East Policy, assessing how political, economic, and defence interactions have evolved in response to regional power shifts. By analysing India’s bilateral relationships with Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, the study highlights varying degrees of strategic convergence driven by shared security concerns, maritime cooperation, and economic complementarities. The research evaluates India’s role in shaping a stable Indo-Pacific architecture and identifies key opportunities and constraints influencing its outreach. Through comparative case studies, the dissertation provides insights into India’s strategic priorities and its long-term engagement trajectory in Southeast Asia.
NAVANEETH MB (Sun,) studied this question.