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Home > Open Access Journals > JSS > Vol. 19 > No. 3 (2026)

 

Author Biography

Dr. Akriti Khajuria is an Assistant Professor at the Amity Institute of International Studies (AIIS), Amity University, Noida. She holds a Ph.D. in International Relations and a Master’s degree in Political Science, and is UGC-NET qualified in the same discipline. Her research focuses on the Indo-Pacific region, with particular emphasis on conflict and cooperation, regional security dynamics, and maritime geopolitics.

Arushi Anthal is a Ph.D. Research Scholar at the Amity Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies (AIDSS), Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India. She holds an M.Phil. from the Department of Strategic and Regional Studies, University of Jammu, and a Master’s degree in Political Science. She is UGC-NET JRF qualified in Political Science. Alongside her doctoral research, she serves as a Visiting Faculty at AIDSS, Amity University.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.5038/1944.0472.19.3.2630

Subject Area Keywords

Diplomacy, Economics, Foreign policy, International relations, Southeast Asia

Abstract

In the strategic landscape of the Indo-Pacific, economic cooperation and security imperatives often converge in complex and sometimes conflicting ways. This strategic region has emerged as a critical arena where global and regional powers alike pursue economic engagement while recalibrating security postures in response to shifting geopolitical currents. Within this dynamic environment, India occupies a pivotal position as an emerging power seeking to reconcile its economic aspirations with evolving security challenges. This article explores how India negotiates the interplay between deepening economic integration, especially with major actors such as China and the US, while maintaining strategic autonomy and sovereignty. Anchored in a conceptual synthesis that draws from ASEAN-led regionalism and the discourse on strategic realignment, this study adopts a dual lens of realism and institutionalism. It critically assesses India’s economic outreach through trade agreements and infrastructure initiatives, alongside its defense posture marked by naval modernization and strategic coalitions. The article highlights the operative mechanisms, partial gains, and persistent dilemmas shaping India’s regional approach. Finally, the conclusion examines implications for India’s evolving role in the Indo-Pacific’s strategic architecture.

Disclaimer

The author declares that there are no potential conflicts of interest in the conduct or publication of this research. Furthermore, no external funding or financial support was received for this study.

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