The Elusive Pivot: An Analysis of India's Regional Diplomacy and its Strategic Limitations

Abstract

This article offers an in-depth analysis of India's "Neighbourhood First" policy, exploring its regional diplomatic efforts alongside notable achievements and persistent challenges. Using game theory, international relations frameworks, and case studies, it identifies key obstacles hindering India’s pursuit of regional leadership. These include internal constraints such as political instability, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and limited funding; external challenges like China’s expanding influence, cross-border terrorism, and unresolved historical disputes; and strategic shortcomings characterized by reactionary diplomacy, over-reliance on hard power, and underutilization of soft power tools. The study concludes by advocating for a recalibrated regional approach, focusing on confidence-building measures, cooperative frameworks to address shared challenges, and strategic use of soft power to strengthen India’s leadership in South Asia.