What is ARF

The Look-East Policy was launched in 1992 with the objective that economic integration with Southeast Asian countries would provide an opportunity for growth and transformation of the country because these were the fastest-growing economies. The Indian economy was opening up. The Act-East Policy was succeeded by the Look-East Policy in 2014. This policy was to have greater engagement with countries in Southeast Asia. The Act-East Policy gave importance to economic cooperation, greater connectivity, and security ties. By departing from the traditional foreign policy imperatives, this policy focused on removing the barriers and remoteness of Northeast India. It represents the development model of this region. There has been a sizeable increase in trade output with Southeast Asian countries and an increase in foreign investment. This policy has helped India strengthen its place in the global economy. However, northeastern states have not developed much. The poor section of society and the indigenous residents have not gained from export-oriented and capital-intensive projects.