Universal Coaching Centre -

Enter your keyword

COACHING CENTRE UNIVERSAL COACHING CENTRE Let's join hands together in bringing Your Name in Elite officers list. JOIN US MORE THAN A MEET NEW FRIENDS AND STUDY WITH EXPERTS JOIN US Nothing is better than having friends study together. Each student can learn from others through by teamwork building and playing interesting games. Following instruction of experts, you and friends will gain best scores.

ULP Click here! Click here! Classroom Programme NRA-CET Test Series
Click here ! Click here!
Org code: XSHWV Slide

post

  • Daily Updates

  • Revitalizing BIMSTEC: Enhancing Regional Integration in Bay of Bengal

Revitalizing BIMSTEC: Enhancing Regional Integration in Bay of Bengal

Syllabus:

GS-2:

Important International Institutions , Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India’s Interests , Regional Groupings , India and its Neighbourhood

Focus:

The recent BIMSTEC Summit highlighted India’s strategic focus on strengthening regional cooperation in the Bay of Bengal. The summit’s vision document and initiatives on maritime connectivity mark a significant step toward deeper economic integration and regional stability amidst geopolitical shifts in South and Southeast Asia.

Background of BIMSTEC:

  • The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) was established in 1997.

  • It comprises seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, aiming to foster cooperation across multiple sectors.

  • BIMSTEC bridges South and Southeast Asia, focusing on economic and technical collaboration.

Recent Developments and Challenges

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the BIMSTEC summit, highlighting India’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation.

  • The summit’s focus includes a vision document for BIMSTEC’s future and new initiatives on maritime connectivity.

  • India’s diplomatic efforts are also directed toward relief and rehabilitation in Myanmar, recently struck by an earthquake.

BIMSTEC vs. SAARC: A Comparison and Shift in Focus

SAARC’s Decline and BIMSTEC’s Emergence

  • BIMSTEC gained prominence after SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) became inactive due to geopolitical issues, especially the India-Pakistan rivalry.

  • Pakistan’s reluctance to cooperate on regional integration has stalled SAARC, making BIMSTEC a viable alternative.

Perception as an Alternative to SAARC

  • Despite its potential, BIMSTEC has often been seen as a substitute for SAARC rather than a unique entity.

  • The Indian government’s increased focus on BIMSTEC post-2014 was seen as a reaction to SAARC’s failure.

  • BIMSTEC’s strength lies in the absence of a member state with a veto power, unlike SAARC where Pakistan’s stance often hinders progress.

Geopolitical Dynamics in the Bay of Bengal:

Historical and Strategic Significance

  • The Bay of Bengal has long been a strategic region, historically unified by the British Raj, which projected power across Southeast Asia.

  • The decline of British dominance and the rise of Japan in the early 20th century reshaped the geopolitical landscape.

  • Post-World War II, great power competition shifted focus to the Pacific, marginalizing the Bay of Bengal.

The Return of Great Power Rivalry

  • China’s growing maritime presence and expanding naval capabilities are redefining power dynamics in the region.

  • India’s Act East Policy and the US-China rivalry have revitalized interest in the Bay of Bengal.

  • BIMSTEC, with its strategic location, is crucial for India’s Indo-Pacific strategy.

Understanding Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC):   Evolution of Regional Integration: Historical Significance:

The Bay of Bengal region was historically highly integrated until the early 20th century.

Post-1940s, regional connectivity declined due to independence movements and divergent national interests.

Purpose of BIMSTEC:

Formed to revive regional connectivity and shared interests among member states.

Sumith Nakandala, BIMSTEC’s first Secretary-General, described it as a platform for rediscovering common heritage. Organizational Structure of BIMSTEC: Distinct Approach:

Unlike SAARC or ASEAN, BIMSTEC adopts a sector-driven approach with responsibilities shared among members.

Restructuring in 2022:

At the Colombo Virtual Summit on March 30, 2022, BIMSTEC streamlined 14 sectors of cooperation to 7 priority sectors:

Trade, Investment, and Development – Bangladesh

Environment and Climate Change – Bhutan

Security and Energy – India

Agriculture and Food Security – Myanmar

People-to-People Contact – Nepal

Science, Technology, and Innovation – Sri Lanka

Connectivity – Thailand BIMSTEC’s unique sectoral approach and focus on shared heritage position it as a key regional grouping, aiming for economic integration and development in the Bay of Bengal region.

Structural Constraints and Political Tensions

  • Despite its potential, BIMSTEC faces internal challenges such as trust deficits, unresolved disputes, and political instability.

  • Bangladesh-Myanmar border tensions and India-Bangladesh disagreements are major obstacles.

  • Myanmar’s internal conflict and weakened territorial control undermine its role as a land bridge between South and Southeast Asia.

Lack of Economic Integration and Unilateralism

  • Regional integration remains limited, with BIMSTEC yet to achieve the economic cohesion of ASEAN.

  • Bilateral engagements have often proven more effective than multilateral frameworks.

  • Thailand’s unilateral decision to offer visa-free entry to Indian travelers showcases the benefits of independent policy measures.

The Way Forward: Revitalizing BIMSTEC for Regional Prosperity

Strengthening Regional Cooperation

  • India must focus on institutional strengthening and deepening economic integration within BIMSTEC.

  • This involves enhancing connectivity, trade, and economic partnerships across the region.

  • The ongoing disruption in the global economic order demands resilient regional cooperation.

Leveraging Unilateral and Bilateral Measures

  • India should explore independent initiatives to strengthen ties with BIMSTEC members.

  • Bilateral engagements, such as Prime Minister Modi’s interactions with Thailand and Sri Lanka, are crucial.

  • Tailored policies like visa facilitation and trade incentives can drive cooperation.

Enhancing Maritime Security and Connectivity

  • Developing the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a regional economic and maritime hub is essential.

  • Upgrading port infrastructure, modernizing maritime regulations, and streamlining maritime trade are vital.

  • India’s proactive maritime initiatives can enhance the region’s connectivity and security.

Building Trust and Resolving Conflicts

  • India must engage diplomatically to resolve disputes and foster mutual trust.

  • Encouraging constructive dialogue and cooperation among member states will strengthen BIMSTEC.

  • Addressing Myanmar’s internal issues and supporting democratic processes will be critical.

Conclusion:

  • BIMSTEC represents a unique opportunity for regional integration in the Bay of Bengal, bridging South and Southeast Asia.

  • India’s leadership, proactive policies, and strategic initiatives can unlock the region’s potential.

  • While challenges persist, a pragmatic, multi-pronged approach can drive BIMSTEC towards meaningful regional cooperation.

  • The vision of a prosperous, interconnected Bay of Bengal can be realized through commitment, collaboration, and strategic foresight.

Source: IE

Learn more

Mains Practice Question :

Examine the significance of BIMSTEC in enhancing regional cooperation and economic integration in the Bay of Bengal region. Discuss the challenges it faces and suggest measures to strengthen its effectiveness.