India’s Act East Policy and its Impact on Assam: A Conceptual Study

Abstract

India’s Act East Policy (AEP), launched in 2014 as an upgraded version of the Look East Policy, aims to strengthen ties with Southeast and East Asian countries. Assam, situated at the heart of India’s Northeast, plays a pivotal role in the success of this policy due to its strategic location, rich cultural heritage, and economic potential. This paper examines the goals of the Act East Policy and provides a detailed analysis of its impact on Assam, considering infrastructural development, trade, security, cultural exchange, and regional integration. It also identifies challenges that hinder the realization of the policy's full potential and suggests strategic recommendations.