Why this matters now
Connectivity corridors (INSTC, IMEC, Chabahar) and the India-vs-BRI dynamic are highly topical IR themes — central to trade, strategy and influence.
India’s connectivity initiatives
- INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor) — multimodal links to Russia/Eurasia via Iran;
- Chabahar Port (Iran) — access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan;
- IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor) — launched at the G20;
- Regional links — BBIN, the Kaladan Multimodal project, the India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway.
India and China’s BRI
India has not joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), chiefly because the flagship China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, violating India’s sovereignty. India also flags BRI concerns over debt traps, opacity and strategic motives.
India’s approach
India promotes connectivity based on transparency, sovereignty, financial sustainability and respect for international norms — partnering with like-minded countries (the G7’s PGII, Japan’s initiatives) to offer a credible, principled alternative to the BRI.
UPSC angle
Know India’s initiatives (INSTC, Chabahar, IMEC, BBIN/Kaladan), why India rejects the BRI (CPEC through PoK, debt trap), and India’s connectivity principles (transparency/sovereignty).
Frequently asked questions
What is the INSTC?
The International North-South Transport Corridor — a multimodal route linking India to Russia and Eurasia via Iran.
Why is Chabahar Port important for India?
It gives India access to Afghanistan and Central Asia bypassing Pakistan.
What is IMEC?
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, launched at India’s G20 summit.
Why has India not joined the BRI?
Mainly because the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, violating India’s sovereignty.