Question

Act East Policy was started by which Prime Minister?

• A. Narasimha Rao
• B. Manmohan Singh
• C. Atal Bihari Vajpayee
• D. Narendra Modi

Hint:

Remember the progression: 1. **Look East Policy (LEP)** - P.V. Narasimha Rao (1991) 2. **Act East Policy (AEP)** - Narendra Modi (2014) The AEP is a more dynamic and result-oriented version of the LEP.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks who initiated India's 'Act East Policy'.
Step 2: Key Concept:
The 'Act East Policy' is an evolution of the 'Look East Policy'. It's important to distinguish between the two.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
- The 'Look East Policy' was launched in the early 1990s by the government of Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. Its objective was to increase India's engagement with Southeast Asian nations.
- This policy was continued by successive governments, including those of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh.
- In 2014, the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi upgraded the 'Look East Policy' to the 'Act East Policy'. This new policy signified a more proactive, action-oriented approach with a focus not just on Southeast Asia but also on East Asian countries and enhanced connectivity, trade, and security cooperation.
Since the question specifically asks about the 'Act East Policy', the credit for its initiation goes to Narendra Modi.
Step 4: Final Answer
The 'Act East Policy' was started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.