“Indo-Pacific and the QUAD: A Challenge or Opportunity for India”

Abstract

The 21^st century, synonymously the Indo-Pacific century, questions Francis Fukyama’s End of History debate as it brings back the contest of the seas in the most volatile region of the present times. This barycentre of world politics today faces huge competition among global powers along with the present day challenges of globalised world such as piracy, cybercrimes, terrorism and environmental hazards. In such turbulent times, India looks towards the region with aspirations and ambivalence. It seeks to rise as a regional power providing security and stability to the region, much against the policies of its rival neighbour China which is currently growing assertive and expansionist in the Indo-Pacific. QUAD or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue seems as a viable option for India to streamline its efforts in maintaining a free, open and rule based Indo-Pacific alongwith containing China. However, QUAD being a loose grouping, faces several internal and external challenges. This paper seeks to highlight the role of QUAD in the Indo-Pacific with reference to its relationship with India. It also attempts to analyse the challenges faced by the alliance, both internally and externally. This will help in the understanding of the instrumentality of the QUAD for India’s aspirations and efforts in the region.