India’s Role in the Indo-Pacific: Strategic Autonomy or Strategic Alignment?

As the Indo-Pacific becomes an increasingly contested strategic arena, India faces mounting pressure to define its role within a shifting regional and global order. This panel explores the complex interplay between India’s long-standing pursuit of strategic autonomy and the growing incentives to align with key partners in response to China’s expanding influence. It examines India’s evolving approach to order-building, its cautious stance on formal alliances, and the balancing act involved in maintaining diverse relationships—including with traditional powers like Russia—amid new geopolitical realities. Together, the discussions consider whether India is moving toward deeper alignment, reaffirming its strategic independence, or crafting a nuanced position that blends elements of both.