BharatNotes 🤝 International Relations
Neighbourhood First Policy
GS2
Neighbourhood First Policy
India's foreign policy framework that prioritises relations with immediate neighbours (Pakistan, China, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan) through enhanced connectivity, trade, and people-to-people ties.
Context & Background
Articulated as a priority under PM Vajpayee; explicitly named and emphasised since 2014; operationalised through SAARC summits, Gujral Doctrine, and bilateral agreements.
UPSC Exam Relevance
Gujral Doctrine (1996) — non-reciprocity with smaller neighbours; Neighbourhood First vs Act East; distinction from SAARC (multilateral) vs bilateral ties; challenges: China's influence, CPEC. Official statements now pair it with Act East and MAHASAGAR (e.g. India-Myanmar Joint Statement, 1 Jun 2026).
