PM Modi’s Strategic Push Turns BIMSTEC into a Regional Powerhouse

Once a dormant regional grouping, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has witnessed a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. What began as a modest forum in 1997 has evolved into a vibrant platform for regional integration — thanks to Modi’s strategic vision and diplomatic momentum.

A Turning Point in 2016

BIMSTEC’s revival began with the 2016 Leaders’ Retreat in Goa, where PM Modi extended a special invitation to BIMSTEC leaders during the BRICS summit. The move signaled a strategic shift, placing the Bay of Bengal region at the heart of India’s foreign policy. The invitation wasn’t symbolic — it was a bold declaration of BIMSTEC’s growing relevance in India’s regional ambitions.

Reinforcing this commitment, PM Modi again welcomed BIMSTEC leaders at his 2019 swearing-in ceremony, reflecting continuity and priority in India’s regional diplomacy.

Integrated Diplomatic Vision

PM Modi’s BIMSTEC strategy aligns seamlessly with India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East, and MAHASAGAR policies, creating a cohesive framework for deeper regional ties. These initiatives, combined with his Indo-Pacific vision, have placed BIMSTEC at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia, allowing it to function as a critical bridge for trade, connectivity, and cooperation.

Institutional Strengthening

A major breakthrough came in May 2024, with the formal adoption of the BIMSTEC Charter, granting the organisation legal identity and a structured institutional framework. Furthering this momentum, Indra Mani Pandey was appointed Secretary-General, and India contributed USD 1 million toward capacity-building at the Secretariat.

Key diplomatic engagements followed, including the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (July 2024) and a UNGA sideline meeting (September 2024) — both marking a new era of proactive regional diplomacy.

A Structured, Seven-Pillar Approach

Under Modi’s leadership, BIMSTEC has organised itself around seven strategic pillars, each led by a member nation:

• India: Security
• Bangladesh: Trade, Investment & Development
• Bhutan: Environment & Climate Change
• Myanmar: Agriculture & Food Security
• Nepal: People-to-People Contact
• Sri Lanka: Science, Technology & Innovation
• Thailand: Connectivity

This model has led to a results-driven approach, enabling focused progress in each area.

India’s Strategic Priorities

India’s leadership in security cooperation has resulted in coordinated frameworks to combat terrorism, transnational crime, and maritime threats. The BIMSTEC Energy Centre in Bengaluru supports efforts toward regional energy connectivity, aligning with Modi’s global initiative, “One World, One Sun, One Grid.”

On sustainability, India hosts regional disaster response drills and leads the BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate in Noida, aiding climate resilience through data and forecasting.

Cultural & Youth Diplomacy

Beyond hard policy, PM Modi has emphasized soft power and cultural diplomacy. India has hosted events like:

• BIMSTEC Aquatic Championship (Feb 2024, Delhi)
• BIMSTEC Business Summit (Aug 2024)
• BIMSTEC Cultural Showcase at Surajkund Mela (Feb 2025)
• BIMSTEC Cultural Troupe Performance at Bali Jatra (Nov 2024)

Youth engagement has also surged, with initiatives like the BIMSTEC Youth Summit and Youth-Led Climate Conference (both held in Feb 2025), and the launch of the BIMSTEC-India Marine Research Network (Feb 2024), promoting regional collaboration in ocean science.

From Goa to Bangkok: A Lasting Vision

The trajectory set in 2016 continues to shape the grouping’s evolution. At the Bangkok Summit, the adoption of BIMSTEC Vision 2030 and the Eminent Persons Group Report marked a new phase of maturity and long-term planning.

Conclusion

From a low-key regional forum to a dynamic force for connectivity, commerce, and cooperation — BIMSTEC’s transformation has been one of India’s key foreign policy achievements under PM Modi. His leadership has not only re-energised the group but also positioned it as a vital node in Asia’s emerging strategic architecture.

As BIMSTEC continues to grow in ambition and influence, India’s guiding role ensures that the Bay of Bengal remains a region of shared progress, peace, and prosperity.