The Growing Influence of China in South Asia: With Special Referenceto Indian Security

Vibhanshu Singh

Research Scholar, Department of Defence & Strategic Studies, Deen Dayal Upadhyay GorakhpurUniversity, Gorakhpur

Abstract

The strategic landscape of South Asia is undergoing a profound transformation with the rapid rise of China’s influence across the region. This research paper critically examines the multidimensional expansion of Chinese power—through economic investments, strategic alliances, infrastructure projects like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and military partnerships—and its implications for Indian national security. China’s growing presence in India’s neighbourhood, including in Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, has led to a complex web of geopolitical challenges for New Delhi. Of particular concern are border tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the China-Pakistan nexus via CPEC, maritime activities in the Indian Ocean, and encirclement strategies perceived through the “String of Pearls” doctrine. This paper assesses India’s responses through diplomatic engagement, military modernization, and strategic realignment in the Indo-Pacific. The study concludes that while China’s influence in South Asia is poised to grow, India’s ability to safeguard its security interests will depend on its regional leadership, economic resilience, and strategic partnerships. The paper emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive and adaptive Indian security policy in response to the shifting power dynamics of South Asia.

Keywords: China, South Asia, Indian Security, Belt and Road Initiative, Geopolitics, Strategic Encirclement, Indo-Pacific, CPEC, LAC, String of Pearls.