Riya Sinha on a Decade of Neighborhood First: India's Strategic Shifts & Way Forward

#Ep.098

Riya Sinha is an Associate Fellow at the Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) in New Delhi, where she coordinates the Sambandh Regional Connectivity Initiative and co-manages the Sambandh Policy Dialogue. Her research focuses on regional economic connectivity in South Asia, covering trade, logistics, infrastructure, and border management. In 2022, she was a Visiting Fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington DC and a Fellow at the Asian Forum on Global Governance. Previously, Riya worked at the Bureau of Research on Industry and Economic Fundamentals (BRIEF), conducting research on regional trade, supply chains, and trade facilitation.

Shuvangi and Riya reflect on a decade of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy since its inception in 2014. They discuss India's initial focus, strategic adjustments in response to China's Belt and Road Initiative, and regional expectations for enhanced connectivity and cooperation, including the potential revival of SAARC. Riya highlights new connectivity projects with the Middle East and Europe, economic cooperation with Nepal, especially in the energy sector, and collaborative initiatives with the U.S. She advocates for prioritizing funds and manpower for India's neighbors to achieve its 'Vishwa Guru' ambitions and emphasizes incorporating a feminist dimension into the policy.

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