2024, Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A

India's Act East Policy is a foreign policy initiative. Its main goal is to improve relations with other nations. Additionally, it is a diplomatic endeavor to promote cultural, geopolitical, and economic ties on a bilateral and multilateral basis with countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The goals of this policy are to promote regional integration and forge strategic relationships. Its objective is to strengthen ties with ASEAN and East Asian nations. The Act East Policy seeks to improve interpersonal relationships and cultural exchanges. It aims to increase international trust and understanding. This strategy promotes regional peace and stability as well as economic growth. Originally meant to be an economic endeavor, the approach has grown to incorporate institutional channels for cooperation and communication along with political, strategic, and cultural elements. This is how the current article illustrates how India's 'Act East' policy has led to increased involvement in the Bay of Bengal, especially in maritime affairs. As a result, India has also embraced its security responsibilities.