PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
WBPSC Miscellaneous Preliminary 2023
Answer
P. V. Narasimha Rao
Explanation
India's 'Look East Policy' was formulated and enacted during the tenure of Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao in 1991. The policy was developed to cultivate extensive economic and strategic relations with the nations of Southeast Asia to bolster India's standing as a regional power. In 2014, under PM Narendra Modi, it was upgraded to the 'Act East Policy'.
Key Points
- > Introduced in the year 1991.
- > Primary focus: Engagement with ASEAN countries.
- > P.V. Narasimha Rao is known as the father of Indian economic reforms.
- > LPG (Liberalization, Privatization, Globalization) model was adopted in 1991.
- > I.K. Gujral is famous for the 'Gujral Doctrine' focusing on friendly neighborhood relations.
- > Upgraded to 'Act East Policy' by PM Narendra Modi in 2014.
- > It marked a strategic shift in India's perspective of the world.
Additional Information
Indian Foreign Policies
| Policy | Prime Minister | Year | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panchsheel | J. Nehru | 1954 | Peaceful coexistence (China) |
| Look East | P.V. Narasimha Rao | 1991 | Strategic ties with SE Asia |
| Gujral Doctrine | I.K. Gujral | 1996 | Neighborhood first approach |
| Act East | N. Modi | 2014 | Action-oriented Look East |
Memory Tips
- Remember that 1991 was the year of grand opening (LPG Reforms). The PM who opened the economy (Narasimha Rao) is the one who 'Looked East' for trade.