'Look East Policy' of India: the Myths and Realities.

India's foreign policy since its Independence on 15 August 1947, had been one of cooperation and conciliation and not confrontation. This could be well amplified when the Pakistan infiltrators entered in to the Indian territory in 1948, the then Prime Minister urged that matter be referred to the newly formed World Body, the United Nations. If one goes through history, one would find that all the three wars between India and Pakistan was initiated by Pakistan and India had to defend herself. Similar situation arose when China unilaterally broke the Pancha Sheel accord agreed between Indian and China and aggressed the territory. The article makes a modest attempt to trace India's policy towards the near east or South East nations. It traces the historical and cultural links between India and South East Asian nations and ultimate consolidation of India's 'Look East Policy'. This article takes in to consideration the economic and strategic interests of the region. It is hoped that this article would enable the readers to look in to and understand India's policy towards South East Asian nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]