Prime Minister Modi's Act East Policy: Strengthening India's Regional Leadership

In today’s fast-changing world, countries are constantly reshaping how they interact with their neighbors—and India is no different. One of the most impactful foreign policy shifts in recent times has been Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East Policy.

But what exactly is this policy? Why does it matter so much in 2025? And how does it affect India’s position in Asia and the world? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

From 'Look East' to 'Act East': What Changed?

Back in the 1990s, India launched the Look East Policy to build stronger ties with countries in Southeast Asia. The idea was to focus on trade and economic partnerships. But here’s the thing—it mostly stayed on paper. There wasn’t much real action on the ground.

Then came 2014, and with it, a fresh leadership approach from PM Modi. He didn’t just want to "look" east—he wanted India to act decisively. That’s how the Act East Policy was born.

This wasn’t just a rebranding. The shift was about taking real steps—investing in relationships, building infrastructure, boosting trade, and becoming a more active player in Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific.

Why Is This Policy Important for India?

There are a few solid reasons why the Act East Policy is a big deal:

1. Better Trade = Stronger Economy

Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia are growing fast. India sees them as major partners to grow trade, attract investments, and boost tourism. These ties open up markets for Indian businesses, especially in tech, pharmaceuticals, and services.

2. Security in the Indo-Pacific

China’s growing influence in Asia has raised eyebrows globally. India’s partnerships with Southeast Asian nations (and others like Japan and Australia) help balance the power game in the region.

3. Stronger Cultural Ties

India shares deep historical and cultural links with countries like Cambodia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Through this policy, India is reviving those connections—think Buddhist tourism, student exchanges, and art festivals.

Major Wins of the Act East Policy So Far

Since 2014, several initiatives have been rolled out as part of this policy. Here are some highlights:

🚧 India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway

A massive infrastructure project connecting India’s Northeast to Southeast Asia. It’s a big step for trade, travel, and people-to-people ties.

🇮🇳🤝🇻🇳 Defense Deals with Vietnam

India and Vietnam have deepened their strategic and defense ties. From training to joint naval exercises, this partnership is growing stronger each year.

🌊 Engagement in the Indo-Pacific

India has teamed up with countries like the USA, Japan, and Australia through the QUAD alliance, which focuses on maintaining peace, freedom of navigation, and stable sea routes.

The Northeast: India's Gateway to the East

One of the smartest moves of the Act East Policy is its focus on India’s Northeastern states. Why? Because they directly connect to Southeast Asia.

Projects like:

• New roads and bridges

• More flights from cities like Imphal and Guwahati to Bangkok and Yangon

• Special tourism and trade zones

…are turning the Northeast into a gateway for international trade and cultural exchange.

Challenges Still Exist

Of course, not everything’s perfect. India still faces a few bumps in the road:

• China’s stronghold in the region makes competition tough.

• Some infrastructure projects are slow due to red tape and lack of funding.

• Balancing foreign relations while protecting domestic interests is always tricky.

But the overall direction is clear—and positive.

What’s Next? The Road Ahead for India

Looking ahead, PM Modi’s Act East Policy will likely focus on:

• Digital economy partnerships with Southeast Asian countries

• More joint defense projects

• Boosting startups and youth exchange programs

• Green energy cooperation (solar, wind, electric mobility)

India is no longer just reacting to global trends—it’s shaping them.