China-India Relations: Requiring Ballast

By : Raviprasad Narayanan

Page No: 312-328

Abstract
This research essay is on the interplay of narratives with geopolitical alignments considering the China-India bilateral as elucidatory. Three issues influence China-India relations:the boundary dispute stasis, trade issues, and foreign policy decision making vis á vis each other. Adopting a critical tone with thoughtful insights, the essay highlights the lack of frameworks to situate this vital bilateral relationship. In global terms, their populations comprise one-third of humanity and, despite being territorial neighbours, mutual obliviousness is a constant feature. By establishing their differing styles and perceptions of each other, this essay contributes new variables that will add to the growing literature on China-India relations. China with economic ballast has succeeded in creating an aura for itself, making many wary. India, as a different political construct from China, holds promise of economic success, with kaleidoscopic interpretations on every aspect.

Author
Raviprasad Narayanan is Associate Professor, Center for East Asian Studies, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/IFAJ.2024.19.4.6