Why is it in the news?
- The Action Taken Report on ‘India’s Neighbourhood First Policy’ has been presented to the Lok Sabha, reflecting the progress and measures taken to strengthen regional relations and address key priorities.
| About NFP
· Aims to forge strong neighbourhood relations based on a consultative, non-reciprocal, and outcome-oriented approach. · Focuses on delivering benefits like greater connectivity, improved infrastructure, stronger development cooperation in various sectors, security, and broader people-to-people contacts. 5S Principle of Neighbourhood Engagement: · Samman (Respect) · Samvad (Dialogue) · Shanti (Peace) · Samriddhi (Prosperity) · Sanskriti (Culture) Significance of NFP For India: · Ensures regional stability and improved security. · Promotes economic growth through improved trade and connectivity. · Counters external influence in the region such as China. · Enhances India’s Soft Power. Significance of NFP For the Region: · Promotes shared prosperity. · Aims for peaceful resolution of outstanding disputes. · Strengthens multilateralism through regional/sub-regional organizations such as SAARC, BIMSTEC, etc. |
Key Recommendations
- Ministry of External Affairs should establish a cell to bring convergence with different ministries on NFP.
- Periodic review of bilateral and multilateral/regional relationship framework.
- Strengthen Joint Project Monitoring Committees and Oversight Mechanisms.
- Monitor demographic changes caused by illegal migration in border areas in coordination with Union Home Ministry.
- Foster synergy between NFP and Act East Policy to improve connectivity, development, and security in India’s North East.
