From geography to geometry of interests: The evolution of India’s strategic outlook

India's traditional strategic paradigm was heavily focused on the immediate neighborhood, particularly the borders with Pakistan and China along the Line of Control and Line of Actual Control. However, the article argues for a paradigm shift from 'geography' to 'geometry of interests.' This means that strategic proximity is no longer just physical distance but is defined by connectivity, technology, and economic integration. For example, India's energy security is deeply tied to the Persian Gulf, and its economic growth relies on sea lanes stretching to the Strait of Malacca. Furthermore, managing China's rise requires looking beyond the Himalayas to its expanding influence across the Indo-Pacific. This necessitates India developing a broader strategic vision that integrates its immediate neighborhood into a larger global context, leveraging partnerships like Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) to secure its interests.

While the focus must expand globally, managing immediate borders remains a critical component of national security. The author points out that while Pakistan will continue to require vigilance, the long-term goal should be to reduce its ability to constrain India's wider strategic choices. This reflects a shift from a defensive, reactive posture to a more proactive strategy where Pakistan does not dominate India's security discourse. Furthermore, the stability of neighbors like Bangladesh is crucial for securing India's eastern frontier and connectivity to the Northeast, while developments in Afghanistan impact counter-terrorism efforts and Central Asian connectivity. India must balance border management with power projection capabilities in regions vital to its economic and strategic interests, such as the Indian Ocean Region.

The author highlights India's civilizational legacy as a strategic asset, citing Nalanda University as an example of ancient transnational engagement based on intellectual and cultural influence rather than coercion. This concept of Soft Power, coined by Joseph Nye, is highly relevant in contemporary diplomacy. India's historical and cultural links with Southeast Asia, the Gulf, and Africa provide a foundation for building trusted partnerships and influence based on credibility and shared opportunities. In contrast to rising powers whose emergence often generates anxiety, India's rise is generally viewed with confidence due to its democratic institutions and developmental partnerships, like those promoted under the Act East Policy and Neighbourhood First Policy. This trust is a critical component of India's strategic autonomy.