In a bold and unambiguous statement, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Ishaq Dar has declared that India’s regional dominance is crumbling. The claim comes at a time of rising instability in South Asia, with mounting internal and external challenges facing New Delhi.You know about theglobespot, andaazdaily, openrendz and india’s regional dominance also Buzzfeed.
This article explores the geopolitical implications of Ishaq Dar’s statement, traces India’s regional trajectory, and presents an in-depth look at how Pakistan and other regional players are recalibrating their roles in the subcontinent. From shifting alliances to economic battles, we analyze whether India’s influence is indeed on the decline or if this is merely a rhetorical power play in a tense region.
Context of the Statement
Who is Ishaq Dar?
Ishaq Dar, one of Pakistan’s most seasoned politicians and economic minds, currently serves as Deputy Prime Minister and has previously held the position of Finance Minister. Known for his pragmatic tone, Dar’s recent remarks about India’s fading dominance have surprised observers for their bluntness.
The Setting and Audience
Speaking during a televised policy roundtable on South Asian cooperation, Dar warned that India’s aggressive posture, failed regional policies, and strained alliances are isolating New Delhi. His words were not casual—they were backed by geopolitical data, defense analysis, and regional developments.
India’s Pursuit of Regional Dominance
Since gaining independence in 1947, India has aspired to be the regional hegemon in South Asia. With its sheer size, population, and economic power, India has traditionally held a central position in regional politics.
Soft Power Through Culture and Democracy
India leveraged its culture, Bollywood, and democratic credentials to influence neighboring countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. It also projected itself as a counterweight to China’s rise.
Military and Economic Clout
India’s military modernization and foreign direct investments in neighboring states aimed to project dominance. Major defense pacts with the US and growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean added to its image of strength.
However, things have changed rapidly over the past decade.
Dar’s Arguments: Why India’s Dominance is Collapsing
1. Internal Political Polarization
Dar pointed to India’s internal strife as a major weakness. From religious intolerance and caste discrimination to violent political polarization, India’s domestic stability is being questioned. This affects its ability to lead regionally.
“No nation can dominate externally while it’s crumbling internally,” Dar remarked.
2. Border Conflicts with Neighbors
India’s deteriorating relationships with neighboring countries—Pakistan, China, Nepal, and even Bhutan—reflect growing isolation.
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China: The Galwan Valley clash and unresolved LAC issues.
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Nepal: Disputes over maps and cultural grievances.
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Sri Lanka: Growing tilt towards China despite Indian aid.
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Bangladesh: Rising tensions over water sharing and border killings.
3. Loss of Strategic Depth
India’s traditional buffer in Afghanistan was weakened after the Taliban’s return to power. Unlike India, Pakistan retained ties with multiple Afghan stakeholders, maintaining its influence.
4. Economic Challenges
While India is still a top global economy, its widening wealth gap, unemployment rates, and inflation raise serious concerns. Dar argued that “India’s economic image hides an internal crisis.”
India’s Shifting Relationships
With the United States
India’s relationship with the U.S. remains important, especially in technology and defense. But Dar noted that Washington’s growing relationship with Islamabad, especially regarding Afghanistan and China, is a sign that India is no longer the sole regional favorite.
With Russia
Traditionally a close ally, India’s support of Western sanctions against Russia has cooled the historic bond. Russia is now turning more toward China and even Pakistan for regional military cooperation.
With China
India’s efforts to balance China through the Quad and AUKUS have not yielded strategic victories. Instead, its trade dependency on China continues to grow.
Pakistan’s Rising Regional Profile
While India’s image may be fading, Pakistan has actively re-positioned itself as a key regional player.
Stronger Economic Diplomacy
Under Ishaq Dar’s economic stewardship, Pakistan has engaged more deeply with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Turkey. With CPEC Phase 2 underway, Pakistan is emerging as a trade corridor for Central Asia.
Defense and Counter-Terrorism Successes
Pakistan’s army has largely dismantled domestic terrorist networks, making the country safer and more stable than in the previous decade.
Improved Image in the Islamic World
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s outreach to the Islamic world and renewed attention from the OIC have elevated Pakistan’s global standing.
Other Regional Players and Their Shifting Loyalties
Bangladesh
While historically closer to India, Bangladesh is diversifying its partnerships. China and Turkey are investing heavily in Dhaka. Public resentment over Indian water policies is also growing.
Nepal
Nepal’s youth and civil society have openly criticized Indian policies. Chinese investment and cultural influence have expanded rapidly.
Sri Lanka
After its financial crisis, Sri Lanka turned to China for help, not India. This shows India’s declining influence despite being a regional neighbor.
India’s Militarization and Regional Instability
Dar criticized India’s massive arms purchases, arguing that they promote instability.
Arms Race in South Asia
India’s acquisition of Rafale jets, nuclear submarines, and missile defense systems has triggered alarm across the region. Pakistan, in response, is strengthening its air and missile defense.
Diplomacy Taking a Backseat
Where once India spoke of peace and dialogue, it now emphasizes strength and retaliation. This shift has hurt its image in conflict resolution circles.
Role of Media and Propaganda
Indian mainstream media has become hyper-nationalistic, often fueling tension with Pakistan and China. Dar noted that free media turning into a propaganda tool weakens democratic image and regional trust.
China’s Strategic Support to Pakistan
China’s growing cooperation with Pakistan—militarily and economically—has created a powerful alliance. In contrast, India’s ties with ASEAN and East Asian powers remain tepid.
“China now sees Pakistan as its gateway to West Asia,” Dar observed.
India’s Failures in Multilateral Forums
SAARC
India has repeatedly stalled SAARC meetings, weakening regional cooperation. Pakistan and other members have pushed for reviving the forum without India.
UNSC Bid Failing
India’s push for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council continues to face opposition. China, Pakistan, and even some African nations oppose India’s inclusion due to its human rights record.
The Kashmir Issue: A Persistent Flashpoint
Dar emphasized that India’s actions in Kashmir post-2019 have delegitimized its moral authority. Pakistan’s diplomatic campaign has highlighted alleged human rights abuses at global forums.
The Global View: What the World Sees Now
International think tanks, including Chatham House and Brookings, have published reports questioning India’s democratic backsliding and its aggressive regional posturing.
In contrast, Pakistan’s recent political stability and renewed IMF cooperation paint a different picture.
Conclusion: Is India’s Regional Dominance Really Over?
DPM Ishaq Dar’s statement reflects growing confidence in Islamabad’s regional position and a belief that India’s aggressive posturing is unsustainable.
India still wields immense power, both economically and militarily. But its failure to maintain balanced relations, internal strife, and alienation of neighbors are real threats to its long-term dominance.
The future will depend on whether India chooses dialogue over domination, and whether Pakistan can maintain its current trajectory of stability, diplomacy, and development.
