Think West Policy

India initiated Look West Policy in 2005 which reflects the significance towards region .The central Asia has been major contributor of energy needs, counter-terrorism process , employment for Indian workers as well as of geo-political and geo-strategic importance. India's endeavours for deeper engagement with the region has been well accepted by the Gulf countries that realise India's potential as a large, stable, democratic country and an emerging political and economic power in Asia and the world

Objectives and priorities of India's LWP are:-

1- Diaspora and Remittances- The West Asian region is home to millions of non-resident Indians; and they were responsible for approximately half of the US$69 billion worth of remittances that flowed into India in 2012. However, the introduction of the Nitaqat laws in many Gulf countries has resulted in several thousands of these workers having to return to India.

2- Geostrategic framework- The improved relations with West Asia act as balancing the equation between India and China in region. Moreover, it can be effectively utilized for India's interest at various global platforms by coordinating with each other. for example- support of India's candidature in UNSC .

3- Regional Security- Any form of tumult in the West Asian region invariably has an impact on India and South Asia as a whole. For security reasons, India seeks peace and political stability and security in the West Asian region – sentiments reciprocated by the countries of the region in their assessments towards West Asia as well as South Asia.

4-Energy Security- Diversifying and expanding its international sources of energy has been a major Indian policy thrust for the past decade, so it is no surprise that energy co-operation is at the heart of India’s engagement of Central Asia. The regional countries is rich in oil, gas and hydrocarbon resources. India can utilize maximum and turn potentialities of relationship into substantive action.

5- Trade and Investment- India's trade and investment with region is high and can further be enhanced in different sectors. The LWP has capabilities to enhance trade relations among India and central Asia. for example- their is need of $1 trillion worth of infrastructural investment in India.

Thus, The potential is there for an expanded Indian role in Central Asia that would increase the economic and political options for Central Asians without coming into direct conflict with the interests of Russia or China or Pakistan.

By: Harman Sandhu