Bangladesh, July 21 -- Chinas growing influence is reshaping South Asias balance of power. Indias traditional strengths endure, but without a bold response, its regional role may erode.

As South Asia emerges as a central arena of geopolitical rivalry, Indias longstanding regional primacy is facing unprecedented challenges. Over the past two decades, China has steadily and systematically expanded its presence across the region—leveraging infrastructure investments, debt-diplomacy, military partnerships, and diplomatic maneuvers to reshape the strategic landscape. From Pakistan to Bangladesh, and increasingly in other neighboring states, Beijing has embedded itself deeply into national policies and strategic calculations.

While Indi...