THE CHINA FACTOR IN INDIA-MYANMAR RELATIONS

The article is an analysis of India-Myanmar relations, which are marked by both paranoia and bonhomie. Myanmar is strategically important for India, especially in achieving its objective of “Look-East Policy” (LEP). India has to maintain a cordial relationship with Myanmar to extend its influence in Southeast Asia. This article discusses the pragmatic shift of India's stand on Myanmar where the growing presence of China in Myanmar and India's quest for energy are the major drivers. Since early 1990s, China has been successful in bringing Myanmar under its influence. In economic terms, China is a major investor in Myanmar and its military relations with Myanmar are a cause of concern for India. This developing scenario has become a kind of security threat to India. India has been responding pragmatically to this development but so far China has got the upper hand over India due to various reasons. This paper analyses India's changing foreign policy towards Myanmar since early 1990s. It also discusses the growing Chinese presence in Myanmar. Mains focus of the paper is on the China factor on India-Myanmar relations in the post cold war era.