China's Inroads into India's Neighbouring Island Nations: Initiatives and Implications.

This article explores China's growing presence and influence in India's neighboring island nations, particularly in the Indian Ocean. China has made significant investments in ports and infrastructure in countries like Hambantota, Gwadar, Kyaukphyu, and Djibouti, raising concerns for India. China has also been actively engaging with the domestic politics of India's immediate island neighbors, presenting itself as a counterweight to India. The article discusses the implications of China's actions for India's foreign policy options and highlights concerns raised by India and the United States regarding Chinese research vessels operating in the region. It suggests that India needs to develop counter-strategies and engage more actively with these island nations to prevent further drift towards China, while also emphasizing the importance of partnerships with other major powers like the United States. [Extracted from the article]