GEOSTRATEGIC COMPETITION IN SOUTH ASIA: ROLE OF CHINA AND THE US IN REGIONAL SECURITY

Abstract

The security dilemma in South Asia stems from the strategic decisions made by the major players in the region, namely Pakistan and India. Over the years, their conventional rivalry has intensified, marked by significant events such as both nations acquiring nuclear capabilities, navigating strategic competition within the framework of nuclear deterrence, and occupying crucial geostrategic positions recognized by global superpowers. China and America are strategic allies to Pakistan and India, respectively, not only enabling both superpowers to assert their competitive influence in South Asia but also exacerbating geostrategic concerns for the regional contenders. This study aims to elucidate how the competition among great powers and the rivalry between superpowers impact the geostrategic landscape of South Asia. Additionally, it seeks to look over the emergence of security dilemmas and concerns related to nuclear deterrence between Pakistan and India, influenced by their strategic alliances with China and America. The research will articulate how Pakistan and India have played pivotal roles in cultivating a nuanced understanding of strategic stability, nuclear deterrence, regional geostrategic preferences, and their overarching influence on the intricate security dynamics shaped by superpowers. A significant aspect of the study involves speculating on the behavior of regional contender India and Pakistan within a given security framework when influenced by a superpower engaged in peer competition. The study will also delineate the intricate nature and configuration of strategic postures in South Asia, particularly in the context of China and America adopting more assertive roles in the region.