Book Discussion: The Agartala Doctrine
Date: Sat Mar 05, 2016 - Sat Mar 05, 2016
Location: Asian Confluence Centre, Shillong , Hosts: Asian Confluence
Location: Asian Confluence Centre, Shillong , Hosts: Asian Confluence
Asian Confluence in association with Oxford University Press organised the launch of the “Agartala Doctrine,” a compilation of essays on India’s engagement with South East Asia and North East India’s role in the Look East Policy, edited by senior journalist turned foreign policy analyst, Subir Bhaumick. The book was launched by former Ambassador Riewad Warjri in the introductory session of the event.
A select panel of diplomats, scholars, politicians and media persons conceded that Tripura’s handling of Bangladesh as a strategy of appropriate political response is worth emulating for India’s neighbourhood policy. Meghalaya Chief Secretary K. S. Kropha exhorted other states in the Northeast region of India to “carefully analyse the Tripura experience and take lessons”. Prof. B. B. Dutta, chairperson of ‘Asian Confluence’, lauded the initiative and reckons that “Tripura’s smart play of geopolitics has helped it turn its disadvantages into advantage and leverage an access to sea via Bangladesh.” He believes that this would incentivise other states in the region to develop good relations with Bangladesh.
Former Ambassador Riewad Warjiri, chairing the discussions, reckons that ‘India’s Look East must happen through Northeast and the states must play a positive and pro-active role’. Shillong Times editor Patricia Mukhim endorsed the ‘Agartala doctrine’ but lashed out at Delhi’s inadequate understanding of ground realities in Northeast. Toki Blah raised crucial issue on the ‘direction’ of the Look East Policy and who all will be benefitting from the initiative. Replying to the important questions raised by the panellists, Mr. Bhaumik said the doctrine of appropriate response has worked for Tripura in creating a positive neighbourhood environment for its security and development at the same time. He opined that China must be in the matrix of Look East policy — or else Indian or foreign capital will not come to Northeast to set up industry.
The launch witnessed a host of distinguished guests which also included NEHU Vice Chancellor S. K. Srivastava and Toki Blah, IAS retd.. The evening deliberated on the key issues and provided the impetus to properly define the provisions and enactment of the Look East Policy. The “Agaratala Doctrine” will encourage other North-eastern states to initiate similar policies to catalyse the developmental process in the region.
