28th September 2024

Article: 28^th September, 2024

Topic: Investing in Digital Health

Relevance: GS Paper: 2 – Health

Source: Down to Earth

Context

• More than 2 million lives from noncommunicable diseases could be saved over the next ten years with an additional US$0.24 per patient annually invested in digital health interventions, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Telecommunication Union.
  
  

Key Findings

• Over the next ten years, these investments may also avert about 7 million hospital admissions.
• This will result in a $199.2 billion global economic gain and greatly lessen the burden on healthcare systems.
• With an average annual cost of only $0.10 per person, low- and middle-income countries were found to benefit the most economically from investments in digital health.
• It is estimated that the cost will be $0.16 for upper middle-income countries and $0.67 for high-income countries.
• Over the course of ten years, the total amount of money needed globally to fund these interventions would be $9.8 billion.
• The use of digital technologies by India to address healthcare disparities is mentioned in the report, with a focus on rural areas where over 65% of the population resides.
• In order to address the growing worldwide burden of NCDs, the report urged governments and stakeholders to act swiftly and make sure that digital health tools are successfully incorporated into healthcare systems.
  
  

Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH)

• In 2023, the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) was introduced by the World Health Organization (WHO).
• The project consists of four primary parts:

• Goal: ALIGN initiatives to assist the 2020–2025 Global Strategy on Digital Health;
• Encourage the provision of high-quality, guaranteed technical assistance to build and improve globally compliant, standards-based systems.
• Enable governments to oversee their digital health transformation journey by facilitating the intentional use of quality-assured digital transformation tools.
  
  

Digital Health

• The term “digital health” describes the application of technology to enhance health and healthcare provision.
• It includes a wide range of instruments and approaches that combine digital technology with health services with the goals of improving accessibility, optimizing workflow, and improving patient outcomes.
• It comprises instruments like wearable technology, health applications, electronic health records (EHRs), mobile health (mHealth), and telemedicine, among others.
  
  

Importance

• Better Access: By enabling virtual consultations, connecting patients to specialists, and reaching out to remote areas, digital tools can increase access to healthcare.
• Improved Affordability: Data-driven resource allocation, electronic prescription, and telemedicine have the potential to lower healthcare costs.
• Personalized Care: Wearable technology and electronic health records (EHRs) make preventive care and customized treatment plans easier.
• Empowered Patients: Digital platforms have the potential to improve medication adherence, educate patients, and encourage self-management of long-term health issues.
• Simplified Healthcare Delivery: Within healthcare systems, digitization facilitates effective resource optimization, administrative procedures, and data management.
  
  

State-sponsored Projects

• The 2017 National Health Policy (NHP): This policy encourages the integration of digital health solutions and places a strong emphasis on the use of technology in health services.

• National Digital Health Mission (NDHM): The 2020 launch of NDHM is intended to establish an ecosystem for digital health in India.
• Its main objectives are to provide each citizen with a Health ID, make health records easier to access, and guarantee that healthcare services are integrated.

• The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) facilitates the creation of electronic health records, health accounts, and health information sharing.

• The E Sanjeevani Telemedicine Platform makes it easier for patients and physicians nationwide to have virtual consultations.

• The goal of the Health Management Information System (HMIS) initiative is to enhance the gathering and application of health data to facilitate improved planning and decision-making.

• The Digital India Initiative Although it covers more ground, this program encourages internet access, digital literacy, and the use of technology across many industries, including the healthcare industry.
  
  

Way Forward

• Achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and other health-related Sustainable Development Goals can be accelerated with the help of digital health. Therefore, it must be incorporated into all health policies.
• India can use digital health to advance its aim of universal healthcare and guarantee improved health outcomes for all by growing current programs, working with stakeholders, and encouraging innovation.

Also Read Topics & Concepts:

Prelims Practice Questions

Q. Consider the following statements regarding National Digital Health Mission (NDHM)

1. It was introduced in 2015.
2. The National Digital Health Mission will now operate on a larger scale, with the introduction of a unified health interface (UHI) among its many initiatives.

Which of the above statements are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: b

Explanation

In his Independence Day speech on August 15, 2020, the Prime Minister declared that NDHM would be launched.
Since then, the mission has been implemented in six Union Territories and digital modules and registries have been developed. Approximately 11.9 lakh Health IDs have been created thus far, and 1490 facilities and 3106 physicians have registered on the platform.
Unified Health Interface (UHI), an open and interoperable IT network for digital health, is expected to launch soon.

Mains Model Questions Q. Examine how digital health technologies might change the health insurance market in India. What are the advantages of integrating digital health solutions into managed care organizations, and what are the drawbacks?

Introduction:

Digital health technologies have the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes, accessibility, and efficiency in India’s health insurance market. Traditional insurance procedures can be modernized with the use of digital tools, improving services for customers and providers alike.

Body:

The Potential of Digital Health Technologies to Revolutionize the Health Insurance Market in India

• Improved Information Administration Digital platforms reduce paperwork and administrative burdens by streamlining data collection, storage, and analysis.
• Enhanced Usability Access to healthcare is increased through remote consultations and telehealth services, especially in underserved and rural areas.
• Personalized Health Services: Preventive care and customized health plans are made possible by advanced analytics.

Advantages of incorporating digital health solutions into managed care organizations

• Fraud Detection: To detect and stop fraudulent activity, AI algorithms can examine claims data.
• Improved Customer Experience: Scheduling appointments, managing policies, and filing claims are made simple by mobile apps.
• Increased Transparency: Quicker reimbursements and greater transparency are two benefits of real-time claim processing.

The integration of digital health solutions in managed care organizations presents certain challenges

• Data Privacy Issues: It is critical to guarantee the safe storage and moral application of health data.
• Digital Divide: Certain populations may be excluded due to unequal access to smartphones and internet connectivity.
• Regulatory Environment: To control data privacy and the use of digital health tools, clear regulations are required.
• Integration with Legacy Systems: In order to properly integrate digital solutions, MCO systems may need to be upgraded.
• Threats to Cybersecurity: Strong cybersecurity defenses are essential for safeguarding private medical information.

Conclusion: India’s health insurance market has a revolutionary opportunity thanks to digital health technologies. Through problem-solving and ethical data management, MCOs can use these resources to increase productivity, raise the standard of care, and give policyholders more control over their health.

Article: 28^th September, 2024

Topic: 10 Years of Make in India

Relevance: GS Paper: 3 – Economy

Source: PIB

Context

• One of the most important phases in India’s efforts to build its nation, the “Make in India” initiative, marked its tenth anniversary on September 25, 2014.
  
  

Pillars of “Made in India”

• Novel Procedures: “Ease of doing business” was recognized by the “Make in India” initiative as a critical component in fostering entrepreneurship.

• New Infrastructure: To build world-class infrastructure, the government concentrated on creating smart cities and industrial corridors by fusing cutting-edge technology with fast communication.
• New Sectors: A number of industries, including construction, insurance, medical devices, defense manufacturing, and railroad infrastructure, have seen a major increase in foreign direct investment (FDI).

• New Mindset: To promote a cooperative atmosphere that encouraged industrial growth and innovation, the government adopted a role as a facilitator rather than a regulator.

Notable Achievements under “Made in India”

• From $45.14 billion in 2014–15 to a record $84.83 billion in 2021–22, FDI inflows have increased gradually.
• In the World Bank’s Doing Business Report (DBR), which was discontinued in October 2019, India ranked 63rd, having improved its business environment from 142nd in 2014.
• India’s growing role in international trade is reflected in its $437.06 billion in merchandise exports during the fiscal year 2023–2024.
• The textile sector has significantly improved India’s employment situation by generating an astounding 14.5 crore jobs nationwide.
• The first domestic semi-high-speed trains in India, the Vande Bharat Trains, are a prime illustration of the achievements of the “Make in India” campaign.
• India developed into a significant supplier of life-saving vaccines to numerous developing and underdeveloped countries across the world.
• India’s electronics industry has grown quickly; in FY23, it was valued at USD 155 billion.
  
  

What are the concerns?

• India’s manufacturing sector accounted for 17.3 percent of GDP in 2013–14 and remained stagnant at 17.7 percent in 2023, well short of the target of 25% by 2030.
• The manufacturing sector’s percentage of all jobs in the nation has slightly decreased, from 11.6 percent in 2013–14 to 10.6 percent in 2022–2023.
• The percentage of India’s GDP that is attributed to exports decreased from 25.2% in 2013–14 to 22.7 percent in 2013–24.
• Additionally, comparatively small percentages of labour-intensive goods and services make up exports.
  
  

Conclusion

• As the “Make in India” campaign marks ten years, it is a testament to India’s resolve to improve its standing internationally and change the manufacturing landscape.
• Even though the manufacturing sector’s fundamental indicators indicate a lackluster growth, the efforts and accomplishments remain insufficient. India’s industrial capabilities have been greatly enhanced by the initiative, which focuses on developing infrastructure, offers investment-friendly policies, and implements strategic reforms.

Also Read Topics & Concepts:

Prelims Practice Questions

Q. Consider the following statements regarding Make in India

1. Its goal is to draw in foreign direct investment for the advancement of infrastructure.
2. The initiative’s “Production Linked Incentive (PLI)” program aims to give local manufacturers financial subsidies.
3. One example of a portfolio investment is when a foreign business opens a manufacturing facility in India.

Which of the above statements are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. 1 and 2
4. 1, 2, 3

Ans: c

Explanation

Its goal is to draw in foreign direct investment for the advancement of infrastructure.

One example of a portfolio investment is when a foreign business opens a manufacturing facility in India.

A foreign corporation that establishes a manufacturing plant in India as part of the Made in India initiative is an example of foreign direct investment (FDI) rather than a portfolio investment. While foreign direct investment entails investing in tangible assets, like building a manufacturing plant, portfolio investment refers to investments made in financial assets, like stocks and bonds.

Mains Model Questions Q. Critically examine if the goals of the “Make in India” initiative have been achieved. Provide some recommendations for how to improve the results.

Introduction:

The Indian government launched the Make in India initiative as a nationwide effort to encourage investment, innovation, skill development, and the establishment of a world-class manufacturing ecosystem in the nation. Since its establishment, the government has declared plans to streamline national business procedures in an effort to enhance the business climate. However, there are differing outcomes from the Made in India campaign.

Body:

Developments in the Made in India initiative thus far:

• Increased investment: The IT and manufacturing sectors experienced explosive growth as a result of the Made in India initiative. This has prompted a number of foreign and international investors to invest in India and grow their businesses by constructing in the country.
• Boost to MSMEs: The Made in India campaign’s “zero defect, zero effect” slogan has had a positive effect on India’s Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs). Because of this, a lot of businesses are producing products with “zero defects” and making sure they have “zero effect” on the environment.
• Accountability: The industry has become far more transparent and accountable as a whole following the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the demonetization of currency.
• Ease of doing business: Efforts have been made to enhance the ease of doing business by streamlining and rationalizing current regulations.

Concerns Regarding the Made in India Initiative

• Investment from Shell Companies: A sizable portion of India’s foreign direct investment (FDI) is not foreign; rather, it originates from shell companies based in Mauritius, which are thought to be investing only black money that enters India through Mauritius.
• Low Productivity: Workers in Indian factories lack the necessary skills, and the country’s factories produce little. According to a McKinsey report, Indian manufacturing workers are, on average, roughly four and five times less productive than their Chinese and Thai counterparts.
• Small Industrial Units: In order to invest in contemporary equipment, create supply chains, and achieve the intended economies of scale, industrial units are small in size.
• Infrastructure: The cost of electricity in China and India is nearly equal, but power outages are much higher in India.

Actions required to enhance the results:

• Labor reforms: India’s low performance can be attributed to widespread worker exclusions from labor laws, violence, and arrests. India needs to implement labor reforms as soon as possible, such as increasing the minimum wage and improving worker social security.
• Tax system simplification: One of the main things that worries investors is the complicated tax system, which involves a lot of paperwork. Another is corruption. It is necessary to simplify the extremely complicated GST that has hurt investor confidence and put SMEs under unnecessary compliance burdens.
• Land reforms: It is challenging for India to draw in investors in the manufacturing sector due to its strict land acquisition laws and rigid labor regulations. It is possible to change India’s model land acquisition legislation to make it simpler to purchase land for defense and development projects in the fast-growing economy, while also ensuring the rights of farmers.

Conclusion: In order to attract significant investments, the Make in India initiative seeks to establish India as a center for innovation, design, and manufacturing. Without a doubt, this is a commendable initiative that has lowered the risks associated with investing in India for many international businesses. A business-friendly climate, low manufacturing costs, access to skilled labor, and strong infrastructure are some of the prerequisites for the Made in India initiative’s success.

Article: 28^th September, 2024

Topic: CDSCO: List of “not of standard quality” Drugs

Relevance: GS Paper: 2 – Health

Source: Financial Express

Context

The safety and efficacy of 53 medications, including commonly used medications like Pan D and Paracetamol, have come under scrutiny following a recent quality control inspection conducted by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).

About

• A number of medications were determined to be “not of standard quality” (NSQ), and drug testing laboratories deemed some of them to be fraudulent.
• This highlights the serious public health concerns raised by this as well as the fact that several states have not submitted data on the quality of drugs.
• Prior to now, the drug regulator actively outlawed dangerous fixed-dose medication combinations, underscoring the necessity of more stringent pharmaceutical quality control procedures.
  
  

India’s Drug Regulation

• The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), which is housed under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is principally in charge of overseeing drug regulation in India.
• The National Regulatory Authority (NRA) of India is CDSCO. In addition to overseeing clinical trials and approving new medications, the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) also sets drug standards.

• Every state has the regulatory power to keep an eye on the production, distribution, and sale of pharmaceuticals inside its borders.
• The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 regulate drugs and pharmaceuticals in India and are designed to guarantee the quality, safety, and efficacy of drugs that are sold and used in the country.
  
  

Problems Related to India’s Drug Regulation

• Problems with Quality Control: Regular reports of counterfeit and subpar medications draw attention to the weaknesses in quality control.
• Insufficient Enforcement and Monitoring: Both the State Drug Control Authorities and CDSCO have limited staffing and resource capacities.
• Absence of Robust Post-Market Surveillance: After drugs are marketed, there is insufficient post-marketing surveillance to guarantee that they continue to meet safety standards.
• Fragmented Regulation: The separation of federal and state authorities’ regulatory responsibilities frequently results in a lack of coordination, inefficiencies, and disparities in state enforcement.
• Other problems include a shortage of skilled labour, a lack of openness in clinical trials, pressure on regulatory agencies to grant approval, etc.
• The absence of qualified and sufficient staff was noted by the Mashelkar Committee (2003) as a major problem with India’s drug regulatory system.

Ways Forward

• Building Up Regulatory Infrastructure: To guarantee strong drug control, India must improve the infrastructure, manpower, and resources available to both federal and state drug regulatory agencies.
• Improved Central and State Agency Coordination: To address problems like uneven regulation and enforcement, CDSCO and State Drug Control Authorities must work together more effectively and share information more frequently.
• Emphasis on Quality Assurance: To guarantee that manufacturers meet the highest quality standards, there should be a strict emphasis on enhancing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Strong Post-Marketing Surveillance: Following approval and release of a medicine onto the market, a thorough post-marketing surveillance system must be put in place to continuously monitor its quality, safety, and effectiveness.
• The National Drug Authority’s establishment: The Mashelkar committee’s recommendation to restructure the drug regulatory system included the establishment of the National Drug Authority.

Also Read Topics & Concepts:

Prelims Practice Questions

Q. Consider the following statements

1. General information regarding India’s drug regulations can be found at the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).
2. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers oversees CDSCO.

Which of the above statements are incorrect?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: b

Explanation

General information regarding drug regulations in India is provided by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). The Drug Price Control Order is enforced and medication prices are regulated by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), which is under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. It is overseen by the Ministry of Fertilizers and Chemicals.
In India, the Pharmacy Act of 1948 governs the practice of pharmacy.

Mains Model Questions Q. Discuss about the prospects and problems facing the Indian pharmaceutical sector.

Introduction:

India, often known as the Pharmacy of the World, is the world’s largest supplier of generic pharmaceuticals. In terms of value, the Indian pharmaceutical market ranks thirteenth globally and is the third largest in terms of volume.
The Indian pharmaceutical industry enjoys a number of unique benefits, including low manufacturing costs, a booming private sector, rapid economic growth, and rising insurance penetration in the country’s healthcare and medical fields. Nonetheless, the industry has numerous difficulties.

Body:

Related Challenges

• The Indian pharmaceutical industry is heavily dependent on China for pharmaceutical raw materials, or active pharmaceutical ingredients, even though China is a major supplier of high-quality medicines to many nations.
• Another significant issue facing Indian pharmaceutical companies is the negative impact fake versions of their high-value and/or high-volume brands are having on their ability to conduct business.
• The government and civil society are putting pressure on the Indian pharmaceutical industry to lower the cost of generic medications so that a greater portion of the nation’s population can afford them.
• India’s patent law is criticized by the US and other nations for requiring a compulsory license to produce generic versions of branded drugs, despite the WTO’s TRIPS complaint.
  
  

Opportunities

• Given that India’s biotech sector is predicted to grow at an average annual rate of about 30% and reach $100 billion by 2025, the country ought to take note of and invest in biopharmaceuticals.
• A better future is also promised by e-pharmacies, since they can deliver medications to even the most remote areas of the nation.
• The public sector API manufacturers and R&D must be revived in order to guarantee the health security of the Indian populace.
• Every state must establish a functional testing laboratory in order to expedite the process of specifying raw materials.
• Through continuing education programs, academic institutions can produce skilled labor.

Conclusion: The Indian pharmaceutical industry has a bright future, but it also needs to address the few dark clouds that are approaching.

Article: 28^th September, 2024

Topic: India-Indonesia Diplomatic Relations

Relevance: GS Paper: 2 – International Relations

Source: News on AIR

Context

• In New Delhi, the eighth India-Indonesia Foreign Office Consultation took place.
  
  

Important Points

• A thorough assessment of bilateral relations, encompassing political interactions, security and defense, the maritime sector, commerce and investment, healthcare, and connectivity, was conducted by both parties. They also discussed mutually interesting regional and global issues from different points of view.
• The ongoing celebration of the 75th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between India and Indonesia, as well as the various events planned to commemorate this significant occasion, were deliberated by both parties.
• Both parties acknowledged their satisfaction with the advancements achieved in the various areas of engagement and committed to looking into new areas for collaboration. The next FOC will take place at a time that works for both parties.
  
  

India-Indonesia Bilateral relations

• Historical and Cultural Links: India and Indonesia have had extensive commercial and cultural ties spanning more than two millennia.
  – From India, Buddhism, Hinduism, and eventually Islam made their way to Indonesia.
  – Indonesian folk art and dramas are influenced by Indian epics such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.
  – Both nations enthusiastically celebrate the Bali Yatra festival.
• Political Relations: Colonialism, democracy, pluralism, and progressive leadership are shared experiences between the two nations.
  – On India’s inaugural Republic Day in 1950, President Sukarno of Indonesia was the honored guest.
  – Both countries played a significant role in the independence movements of Africa and Asia. They also made contributions to the establishment of the Non-Aligned Movement (1961) and the Bandung Conference (1955).
  – The “Act East Policy” (2014) and “Look East Policy” (1991) of India have expedited bilateral relations, especially in the areas of politics, security, defense, commerce, and culture.
• G20 Engagement: Under the motto “Recover Together, Recover Stronger,” Indonesia presided over the G20 in 2022.
  – Prime Minister Modi attended the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Bali, November 2022, and India actively participated in the G20 events that Indonesia hosted.
  – With a significant Indonesian participation, India hosted over 100 meetings during its G20 presidency, which it held in December 2022.

• Economic Relations: India’s exports were valued at USD 10.02 billion and its imports at USD 28.82 billion during the 2022–2023 bilateral trade period.
  – India is a significant purchaser of coal, crude palm oil, and other resources from Indonesia. India exports automobiles, agricultural products, refined petroleum, and other goods.

• Investment: Between 2000 and 2022, 1,219 million USD were invested in 4,750 projects in Indonesia by Indian investors.
  – Singapore and other gateways are the main entry points for Indian investment into Indonesia, so the actual volume may be higher.
• Opportunities for the Blue Economy: The Blue Economy is centered on sustainable maritime and ocean-related industries.
  – When it comes to using its maritime resources to promote sustainable economic growth, Indonesia is a leader.

• Collaboration in Digital and Technological Spheres: India and Indonesia are highly digitalized nations that leverage technology for e-governance and public services.
  – Indonesia, which is likewise creating its own DPIs, can learn from India’s success with these projects.
  – Given the new security threats both nations face from digital public services, cybersecurity is an important area for cooperation.
• Defence: There is close defense and security cooperation between Indonesia and India. Both countries signed a new Defense Cooperation Agreement in May 2018, during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, elevating their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
  – Exercise GARUDA SHAKTI is a Joint training between the Indian and Indonesian special forces.

Prospects for the future

• For Indonesia and India, collaboration in digital technology and the blue economy presents exciting prospects.
• These partnerships will improve bilateral relations while also advancing the prosperity of the Indo-Pacific area as a whole.
• India and Indonesia could work together on issues like waste management, blue carbon spaces, overfishing, sea farming, marine pollution, maritime security, and the use of marine resources to produce food and fuel.

Also Read Topics & Concepts:

Prelims Practice Questions

Q. Garuda Shakti is an exercise conducted between India and Indonesia

1. Indonesia
2. France
3. Japan
4. Sri Lanka

Ans: a

Explanation

An exercise conducted bilaterally by the special forces of the armies of Indonesia and India is called Garuda Shakti. This combined military drill is a component of the defense cooperation between Indonesia and India.

Mains Model Questions Q. Evaluate the economic and strategic dimension of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-cold war international scenario. (UPSC PYQ 2016)

Introduction:

In order to fortify India’s strategic and commercial connections with Southeast Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific, the Look East Policy (LEP) was introduced in 1991. The objective was to utilize India’s close proximity to these areas and capitalize on their thriving economies in order to expedite India’s own economic expansion.

Body:

India’s Look East Strategy in the International Post-Cold War Scenario:

• Economic Dimension:
• ASEAN Integration: As a result of the Look East Policy, India was admitted to ASEAN as a full dialogue partner in 1995, which boosted economic cooperation.
• Trade: From $2.9 billion in 1993 to $82.5 billion in 2020, trade between India and ASEAN grew.
• Investment: In 2019, India invested $41.9 billion in the ASEAN, primarily in the manufacturing, telecommunications, and energy sectors.
• Economic Reforms: Growth was stimulated and foreign investment was drawn to India by its economic reforms.
• Liberalization: Increased inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI) were a result of policies enacted in the 1990s.
• Privatization: The efficiency and competitiveness of state-owned businesses were increased through privatization.
• Aspect of Strategy:
  – China’s counterbalance: The goal of the Look East Policy was to balance out China’s sway over Southeast Asia.
  – Maritime Cooperation: To uphold an Indo-Pacific rules-based order, India worked with ASEAN countries on maritime security projects.
  – Regional Groupings: India participated in talks about regional security when it joined the East Asia Summit (EAS) in 2005.
• Boosting India’s Position:
  – Security Cooperation: Through cooperative defense cooperation agreements and joint military drills, India strengthened security ties with ASEAN nations.
  – Regional Power: India’s position as a regional power has been cemented by its active participation in ASEAN-led forums such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).
• Infrastructure and Connectivity:
  – The goal of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project was to increase trade and connectivity between Southeast Asia and India.
  – The goal of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project was to create maritime connections between Myanmar and northeastern India.

Conclusion: In terms of its strategic and economic aspects, India’s Look East Policy has been a huge success. It has aided India in strengthening its strategic ties with important allies like the US and Japan as well as its economic integration with the Asia-Pacific area. India’s Look East Policy has allowed it to become a major player in the Asia-Pacific region in the post-Cold War international scene, contributing to the stability and prosperity of the area.