Why is it in News?
→ Political changes in Bangladesh have created strategic and diplomatic challenges for India.
→ India is reassessing its engagement strategy to protect long-standing bilateral cooperation.
Important Points
- August 2024 saw the fall of the pro-India Awami League government in Bangladesh.
- Sheikh Hasina’s exit ended a long phase of political stability.
- Emergence of new political forces including the National Citizen Party (NCP).
- NCP was launched by student activists involved in anti-Awami League movements.
- India-Bangladesh ties impact trade, connectivity, energy, and defence cooperation.
- Bangladesh is central to India’s Neighbourhood First Policy.
- It is a convergence point for Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific strategy.
- Both countries engage in SAARC, BIMSTEC, BBIN, and IORA.