The Rising Importance of the Bay of Bengal in Geopolitics

Synopsis (75 words)

The Bay of Bengal has re-emerged as a major geopolitical and economic hub at the heart of the Indo-Pacific vision. India’s Act East Policy and the growing importance of BIMSTEC have enhanced sub-regional connectivity and cooperation. Influenced by U.S.-China rivalry, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy, India—supported by its Quad partners—aims to balance China’s presence while strengthening trade, infrastructure, and maritime security in the region.

FAQs

1. Why is the Bay of Bengal strategically important today?

The Bay of Bengal serves as a vital link between South Asia and Southeast Asia, making it crucial for global trade, energy transportation, and maritime security. Located at the northeastern edge of the Indian Ocean, it functions as a strategic bridge connecting major economies and enabling cooperation under the Indo-Pacific framework.

2. How has India enhanced its role in the Bay of Bengal?

India has strengthened its role through the Act East and Neighbourhood First policies, focusing on regional connectivity, infrastructure, and port modernization. Through BIMSTEC and collaboration with Quad partners, India is advancing economic growth, enhancing maritime security, and countering China’s expanding influence in the region.

3. What role do China and the U.S. play in the Bay of Bengal?

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has increased investment in ports, infrastructure, and energy projects across Bay littoral states, deepening its strategic footprint. The U.S., through its Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy, promotes transparent, sustainable, and inclusive development models in cooperation with India, Japan, and other regional allies.

4. Why is BIMSTEC gaining prominence?

BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) connects South Asia and Southeast Asia by focusing on trade, connectivity, and security collaboration. It offers a platform for regional development and integration, helping member nations reduce dependence on external powers and strengthen collective resilience.

5. What are the main challenges in the Bay of Bengal region?

The region faces challenges such as managing U.S.-China competition, ensuring balanced infrastructure development, and addressing maritime boundary disputes. Additionally, non-traditional security threats—including piracy, illegal fishing, climate change, and natural disasters—require joint regional cooperation and capacity building among littoral states.

6. How is the Quad strengthening Bay of Bengal cooperation?

The Quad—comprising India, the U.S., Japan, and Australia—works together on maritime security, disaster response, and infrastructure initiatives that promote transparency and sustainability. These efforts align with BIMSTEC’s objectives and help maintain a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.

7. What future prospects does the Bay of Bengal hold?

The Bay of Bengal is poised to emerge as a center for sustainable economic growth, digital connectivity, and maritime collaboration. With increasing strategic investments and cooperative frameworks, it will play a defining role in shaping the Indo-Pacific’s economic and security architecture in the coming decades.

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