India’s Strategic Interests and Diplomatic Posture in the South China Sea Dispute: Navigating Law, Stability, and Regional Power Shifts Abstract India’s engagement with the South China Sea (SCS) dispute reflects a calibrated strategy rooted in its commitment to freedom of navigation (FoN), international maritime law, and regional stability. Although India is not a direct claimant … Continue reading Analyze India’s strategic interests and diplomatic posture in the South China Sea dispute, focusing on its commitment to freedom of navigation, adherence to international maritime law (particularly UNCLOS), and regional stability. Assess how India’s Act East Policy, defense cooperation with ASEAN countries, and joint naval exercises reflect its balancing approach amid China’s assertiveness, and evaluate the implications of this involvement for India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy and regional power dynamics.