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

This panel examines India’s evolving strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific region, exploring the delicate balance between maintaining strategic autonomy and pursuing closer alignment with key regional powers such as the United States and Japan. Through analyses of maritime security, diplomatic partnerships, alliance-building, and multilateral cooperation, the papers shed light on India’s efforts to navigate complex geopolitical pressures—particularly amid China’s expanding influence. The discussions also consider India’s multifaceted relationships with traditional partners like Russia, highlighting the nuanced approaches shaping India’s role as a regional security provider and diplomatic actor.