In a move that underscores India’s deepening ties with the Pacific Island nations, the Indian government has pledged to fund Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) worth USD 50,000 in each of the 14 Pacific Island countries. This announcement, made at the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Dialogue Partners Session in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, highlights India’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by these island nations.
Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, announced this during his recent visit to Tonga and emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “As part of our continuous solidarity with our Pacific Partner Countries and the Pacific Islands Forum, I am pleased to announce that the Government of India will undertake one Quick Impact Project or QIP of each country’s choice worth USD 50,000 in each of the 14 Pacific Island Countries.” This initiative, aimed at fostering sustainable development in the region, invites the Pacific nations to propose projects that align with their specific needs and aspirations.
India’s engagement with the Pacific Islands is not new. It is rooted in the country’s “Act East” policy, which seeks to enhance political, economic, and cultural ties with the Asia-Pacific region. The QIP initiative is a continuation of this policy, demonstrating India’s proactive approach to bilateral development partnerships. Currently, India’s grant-in-aid projects in the Pacific Islands are valued at approximately USD 3 million annually, underscoring the country’s long-term commitment to the region.
At the heart of India’s approach is the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translates to “the world is one family.” This ancient principle guides India’s international relations, particularly with nations that are vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters. Margherita reaffirmed this during the PIF session, noting India’s alignment with the priorities of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, a regional blueprint for sustainable development.
India’s contributions to the region go beyond financial assistance. At the 3rd Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a 12-point action plan. This plan includes the establishment of a 100-bed super-specialty hospital in Fiji, a Regional IT and Cyber Security Training Hub in Papua New Guinea, and the provision of 1,000 scholarships over the next five years, among other initiatives. These projects reflect India’s holistic approach to development, which combines infrastructure, education, and healthcare to build resilience in the Pacific Islands.