Manash K. Neog emphasizes that Asia is no longer a bipolar region. Countries like India, Vietnam, and Indonesia are pursuing calibrated, interest-driven policies that allow them to hedge, diversify, and engage flexibly. India's dual participation in both the Quad and BRICS exemplifies this approach, enabling it to maintain sovereignty while expanding strategic partnerships.
For companies, geopolitics is no longer background noise, it's a core variable. Manash K. Neog outlines how firms must embed geopolitical intelligence into planning, from risk analysis to hyper-local partnerships. India's production-linked incentive schemes and growing digital economy offer fertile ground for investment, especially in electronics, AI, and fintech.
The conversation also explores India's untapped potential in critical materials. Despite having rich rare earth deposits, India plays a minimal role in global processing. As the U.S. seeks to reduce dependencies on China, India could become a pivotal player, if it chooses to invest in this long-term strategic game.
Manash K. Neog offers candid advice for European business leaders: adapt to local realities, avoid overreaching in policy negotiations, and build credibility through local leadership. With India's talent pool, evolving trade policies, and growing infrastructure, the country is poised to become a cornerstone of global corporate strategy.
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