“The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s political and economic dominance.” Explain this statement with examples. (UPSC 2024)

The West is not seeking a total break from China; it is pursuing de-risking by diversifying supply chains through India, while also treating India as a strategic counterweight to China in Asia.

• Supply-chain alternative: Under the “China+1” strategy, global firms are shifting production to India. Apple’s rapid expansion of iPhone manufacturing and exports from India shows its growing role in electronics.
• Policy push: India’s PLI schemes, special manufacturing incentives and improving logistics attract Western investment in semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, EVs and telecom equipment.
• Strategic alignment: Platforms such as the Quad, IPEF, US-India iCET and EU-India TTC deepen cooperation in critical minerals, defence, cyber security and resilient supply chains.
• Balancing China: Initiatives like IMEC and India’s maritime role in the Indo-Pacific offer alternatives to China’s BRI and strengthen the regional balance of power.

Thus, the West sees India as both a manufacturing base and a geopolitical partner, though India must still cut its dependence on Chinese inputs to fully benefit.