Background The dissolution of Soviet Union compels the then Government of India to find the alternative strategic partner to enhance the growing economy. As a result, The Look East Policy emerged as competent India’s foreign policy. Initially The Look East Policy crafted during the early nineties by the Narsimha Rao government of India, stands as a significant embodiment of India's deliberate foreign policy approach aimed at Southeast Asia—a region known for its abundant resources and thriving prospects. Over time, this policy has evolved into a pivotal component of India's foreign relations, marking a distinct departure from its traditional foreign policy priorities. Methods The study is definitely having a strong empirical bias. The scientific method has been followed to design the whole content of the study. Different testing methods for identifying different sets of relationship among the variables have also been executed. The study is both explanatory and experimental. Data have been collected thorough secondary sources and assembled data has been made. Results Evolution of Look East Policy to Act East Policy has not only gained substantial momentum but has also acquired strategic depth. Both India and Southeast Asia share deep-rooted cultural and civilizational ties, and they share common interests spanning trade, tourism, investment, joint ventures, counterterrorism, climate change mitigation, and natural disaster relief. As major players in the global economy, their collaboration holds the potential to drive the development of the broader Asian region, benefiting the Asia-Pacific as well. Nonetheless, building a robust partnership in the 21st century will demand both ASEAN and India to surmount formidable challenges and capitalize on significant opportunities with a cooperative and forward-looking perspective. Conclusion The present study has focused on Rediscovering of India’s foreign policy and evolution of Look East Policy to Act East Policy. At present the fluctuating relations with neighbourhood have shown a very distressing picture of socio-political harmony. This paper aims to illustrate the burgeoning cooperation between India and ASEAN across various domains while addressing the obstacles impeding their collaboration. Subsequently, it concludes by exploring areas of alignment between India and the countries of Southeast Asia.
Mamata Khandayatray (Sat,) studied this question.