India's China Challenge: Exploring Possibility Amid Paradox

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55763/ippr.2026.07.03.002

Abstract

India's dilemma with China is characterised by increased bilateral trade, border disputes, and geostrategic rivalries. The coexistence of territorial conflict and trade highlights India's vulnerability to China. This study calls for a reassessment of economic efficiency to address the diplomatic costs of production and the importance of adaptable international diplomacy. The ability to navigate diplomatically in a hostile and interconnected geoeconomy and geopolitics is a key indicator of economic efficiency. Furthermore, it asserts that, under a multi-alignment framework, a defensive diplomacy approach is more effective in achieving and maintaining strategic autonomy. Therefore, diversifying supply chains and establishing geoeconomic partnerships with other nations are India's top priorities to manage its relationship with China. India has strategic opportunities consequent upon China's growing global influence and its disputes with the US-led Western world order. Additionally, India's multi-alignment strategy reduces geopolitical tension among external powers by reducing dependence on any single country.

Keywords:

India, China, Trade Deficit, Geostrategy, Territorial Disputes, Strategic Autonomy, Multialignment

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Authors Bio

Ajay Kumar Mishra, Lalit Narayan Mithila University

Dr. Ajay Kumar Mishra is Assistant Professor at Lalit Narayan Mithila University, Darbhanga.

Shraddha Rishi, Magadh University

Dr. Shraddha Rishi is Assistant Professor at Magadh University, Bodhgaya.

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Published

2026-08-03