(Re-) Narrating the Evolution of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation: China’s Diplomacy Behind the Scenes The launch of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) opened a fresh chapter in international politics in the Mekong region, by marking China’s official entry into the continental Southeast Asian arena. However, little is known about the LMC’s evolution. By extensively relying on the recently opened Archives in Bangkok, this article illuminates facts and narrates the LMC’s formation, with special emphasis on the Chinese perspective. Kornphanat Tungkeunkunt , Poowin Bunyavejchewin September 2022 Strategic Analysis
Challenges to the Development of the Northeast through the Act East Policy It is argued that the way to bring about development in the Northeast is by economically integrating the region with the vibrant markets of Southeast Asia and East Asia through the Act East Policy. Accordingly, a number of projects have been initiated to improve connectivity between the Northeast and the neighbouring countries. It is believed that connectivity projects will act as growth corridors resulting in economic development of the region. Pushpita Das September 2022 Strategic Analysis
Sufi-Barelvis, Blasphemy and Radicalization: A Critical Analysis There is a trend of upsurge in radicalisation of Sufi-Barelvis and violence resorted to by them, particularly in Pakistan, based on their uncompromising stance on the issue of blasphemy. Apart from its roots in various socio-political factors, strong emphasis on veneration of Prophet Muhammad makes Sufi-Barelvis extremely sensitive to any allegation of blasphemy. From print-media and Urdu press to social media and internet, the revolutionisation of the medium of communication in recent times has also played a key role in this radicalisation. Pradeep Singh Gautam September 2022 Strategic Analysis
Belt and Road Initiative and Environmental Challenges Several Belt and Road Initiative projects pass through ecologically sensitive areas and in countries with weak environmental laws and governance. Opangmeren Jamir August 31, 2022 IDSA Comments
Delegitimising China’s Naval Presence in the Indian Ocean Region The impending removal of the piracy High Risk Area off the coast of Somalia presents an ideal opportunity for India, in partnership with the wider Indo-Pacific maritime community, to delegitimise China’s naval presence and strengthen regional mechanisms for ensuring maritime security. Anurag Bisen August 30, 2022 Issue Brief
Export Controls on Advanced Technology Trade and the Russia-Ukraine Conflict Export controls or strategic trade technology control has been used as a significant tool to impose sanctions on Russia, for its military operations in Crimea and Ukraine. Rajiv Nayan August 30, 2022 Issue Brief
LNG: Europe’s Ray of Hope? European imports of Russian gas have steadily declined either voluntarily or on account of Russia weaponising energy, propelling the push towards LNG imports. Anandita Bhada August 30, 2022 IDSA Comments
Applicability of CVC Guidelines to Defence Procurement Given that the Department of Expenditure will henceforth be the nodal department for issuing procurement related instructions in future, the Ministry of Defence must institute a system to promptly incorporate them in the MoD procurement manuals. Amit Cowshish August 29, 2022 IDSA Comments
India–Namibia Relations Get a Boost The Namibian Foreign Minister’s visit to India saw the signing of a critical wildlife pact relating to relocation of African Cheetahs, and provided a boost to bilateral ties. Bulbul Prakash August 22, 2022 IDSA Comments
Russia’s New Maritime Doctrine Russia’s new maritime doctrine, the first policy document in Russia’s national security domain since the Ukraine conflict, reveals a bolder and more assertive Russia, and presents several opportunities for cooperation with India. Anurag Bisen August 17, 2022 Issue Brief
