Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 4. “The evolution of the Quad from a maritime security grouping to a broader economic and strategic platform reflects changing Indo-Pacific realities. In this context, critically assess the relevance of the Quad for India. (250 words, 15 marks)
Introduction
The Quad began in 2004 as a tsunami response mechanism and was formalised in 2007 under Japanese PM Shinzo Abe’s leadership. It has since expanded beyond security into a strategic partnership aligned with India’s regional goals.
Body
Quad’s Evolution: From Security Grouping to Strategic Partnership
- Early military focus: Initial emphasis was on maritime security and naval exercises like Malabar to counter regional threats.
- Formalisation in 2007: Shinzo Abe championed Quad as a strategic vision among four democracies.
- Expansion post-COVID: Shift towards economic cooperation, critical tech, health, and climate response marked a functional broadening.
- 2023 Vision Statement: ‘Enduring Partners for the Indo-Pacific’ formalised Quad’s long term, non-military strategic role.
- Working structure: Six thematic working groups on climate, cyber, health, infrastructure, tech, and space guide its functional agenda.
Relevance of Quad for India
- Strategic alignment without alliance: Informal nature of Quad preserves India’s autonomy while enhancing security cooperation.
- Counter to China’s influence: Helps India respond to China’s maritime assertiveness and infrastructure diplomacy in the region.
- Economic cooperation: Initiatives like QUIN, Ports of the Future, and clean energy chains align with India’s development goals.
- Technology & innovation: Open RAN, semiconductor cooperation, and space data sharing benefit India’s digital and scientific ecosystem.
- Disaster & health support: Logistics network, cancer moonshot, and health partnerships build India’s soft power and resilience.
Challenges Faced by Quad
- Lack of institutional structure: No formal treaty or secretariat limits Quad’s crisis response capability.
- Unequal burden-sharing: Varying economic capacities and strategic commitment lead to implementation gaps.
- Conflicting external ties: India’s SCO, Russia ties and Australia’s China trade ties create internal contradictions.
- Speculations of Asian NATO: Security-heavy focus has triggered geopolitical concerns, especially from China.
- Diverging China strategies: India sees China as a rival; others manage economic dependencies while opposing militarism.
India’s Specific Concerns
- Geopolitical balancing: Quad engagement may strain ties with Iran and ASEAN members wary of bloc politics.
- Indian Ocean vs Pacific focus: India’s primary interests lie in the Indian Ocean, while others tilt towards Pacific.
- Strategic ambiguity: Lack of clear Indo-Pacific doctrine within India creates misalignment with Quad’s broader goals.
Way Forward for Strengthening Quad
- Clear Indo-Pacific strategy: Quad should harmonise economic and security goals to reassure regional players.
- Membership expansion: Including Indonesia, Singapore can improve legitimacy and regional ownership.
- Strengthen India’s maritime doctrine: India needs a comprehensive Indo-Pacific strategy integrating naval, diplomatic, and economic dimensions.
- Institutionalise Quad coordination: Establishing a Quad Secretariat or working group mechanism can streamline action and ensure continuity.
Conclusion
Quad’s evolution into a strategic platform provides India with economic, technological, and geopolitical leverage. As EAM Jaishankar aptly noted, “The Quad is for something, not against someone”—underscoring its constructive and inclusive character.
