3 July 2023, NIICE Commentary 8671
Anushree Tripathi
Northeast India, a unique region characterized by its diverse cultures, ethnicities, and natural resources, holds immense potential for fostering economic and diplomatic ties with Southeast Asia. Historically, the Northeast has been considered the gateway to Southeast Asia, as it shares borders with countries like Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan and with ‘brother state’ Nepal. In recent years, both the Indian government and regional stakeholders have recognized the strategic importance of enhancing engagement with Southeast Asian nations. This article explores the emerging Northeast in India’s Southeast Asia Policy, highlighting the opportunities, challenges, and the way forward in building robust partnerships for regional cooperation.
Historical and Cultural Ties
Northeast India’s historical and cultural ties with Southeast Asia date back centuries. The region’s proximity to Southeast Asian countries has facilitated exchanges in trade, religion, and cultural practices. Historical connections through the ancient Silk Road and maritime routes have left indelible imprints on the region’s societies. The Ahoms, a dynasty that ruled Assam, shared ethnic and cultural affinities with the Tai people of Southeast Asia. Similarly, Manipur and Myanmar have had close historical links due to the shared Meitei community. These cultural connections provide a strong foundation for fostering mutual understanding and collaboration in the present day.
Strategic Importance
The Northeast’s strategic importance in India’s Southeast Asia policy cannot be overstated. The region’s geographic location and connectivity potential offer tremendous opportunities for economic integration, trade routes, and people-to-people exchanges. The Act East Policy, launched by the Indian government, seeks to strengthen India’s engagement with Southeast Asia through the Northeast. The proposed trilateral highway connecting India, Myanmar, and Thailand, and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project are major infrastructure initiatives that will boost connectivity and trade in the region. Additionally, the region’s natural resources, including oil, gas, hydroelectric power, and biodiversity, make it an attractive destination for investments and collaborations.
Economic Cooperation
Enhancing economic cooperation is a key aspect of India’s Southeast Asia policy. With its rich agricultural potential, the Northeastern region can contribute to food security in Southeast Asia. Assam’s tea industry, Manipur’s horticulture, and Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh’s potential in organic farming can all find markets in Southeast Asian countries. The Northeast also holds immense hydropower potential, which can be tapped to meet the energy requirements of Southeast Asian nations. To facilitate trade and investments, the establishment of border trade and export-import centers has been prioritized. The border trade at Moreh-Tamu (India-Myanmar), Dawki-Tamabil (India-Bangladesh), and Agartala-Akhaura (India-Bangladesh) have witnessed significant growth. However, non-tariff barriers and inadequate infrastructure pose challenges to seamless trade. Promoting tourism is another avenue for economic cooperation. The Northeast’s breathtaking landscapes, cultural diversity, and adventure tourism potential can attract a large number of Southeast Asian tourists. Steps such as simplifying visa procedures and promoting air connectivity can boost the tourism sector and promote people-to-people exchanges.
Cultural Exchanges and People-to-People Ties
Cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties are integral to strengthening Northeast India’s relations with Southeast Asia. Cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and sports events serve as platforms for showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage of the region. Collaborative efforts in the field of education and research can facilitate student exchanges and enhance academic cooperation. Northeast India is home to several ethnic communities with shared ancestry and cultural affinities with Southeast Asian countries. Building on these historical connections, cultural exchanges can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s traditions, arts, and way of life.
Conclusion
Northeast holds immense promise for building bridges of cooperation and mutual benefit in India’s Southeast Asia policy. The region’s historical and cultural ties, strategic location, and abundant resources make it an ideal partner for Southeast Asian nations. The Act East Policy, along with infrastructure projects like the trilateral highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, demonstrates India’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and trade in the region. Economic cooperation forms the backbone of this policy, with the Northeast offering agricultural products, hydropower, and tourism opportunities that can meet the needs and aspirations of Southeast Asian countries. However, addressing challenges such as non-tariff barriers and inadequate infrastructure will be crucial in realizing the full potential of economic integration. Cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties play a significant role in fostering understanding and friendship. By leveraging historical connections and organizing cultural events, the region can create platforms for showcasing its rich heritage and nurturing meaningful collaborations in education, research, and tourism. To fully harness the opportunities presented by the Northeast in India’s Southeast Asia policy, it is essential for the Indian government, regional stakeholders, and Southeast Asian nations to work together. This involves strengthening trade networks, investing in infrastructure development, and streamlining administrative processes. By building robust partnerships, the region can become a catalyst for regional cooperation, economic growth, and cultural exchange, benefiting both Northeast India and Southeast Asia as a whole. In conclusion, the region of Northeast in India’s Southeast Asia policy represents a strategic pathway towards deeper engagement, connectivity, and collaboration. With a shared vision and concerted efforts, the region can unlock its vast potential, contributing to the prosperity and integration of Southeast Asia and reinforcing the historical ties that have bound these regions together for centuries.
Anushree Tripathi is an Assistant Professor, CDOE, Jain (deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, India.
