India, still a developing nation, has yet to match the defence and economic strength of countries like the United States, Japan, and Australia. Despite this, India is part of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), which positions it alongside these global powers. The QUAD, initiated in 2007 by Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, was designed as a multilateral dialogue for strategic security in the Indo-Pacific region, with the inclusion of India being an important addition to balance China’s growing influence in the area.

The first virtual QUAD summit was held in March 2021, bringing together leaders from the US, Japan, Australia, and India. The primary focus was on fostering cooperation to ensure regional stability and peace in the Indo-Pacific, as well as addressing global concerns like climate change, health challenges, and technological advancement.

Fast forward to September 21, 2024, when the QUAD leaders met in Wilmington, Delaware, for the 6th summit. US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gathered to reaffirm their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The summit also marked the second in-person meeting, a clear signal of the growing significance of this alliance. While the QUAD is officially seen as a coalition for regional security and economic cooperation, many analysts question whether its true purpose lies in countering China’s rising power.

During the summit, the leaders discussed a wide array of topics, from economic collaboration to defence cooperation, all with the underlying objective of maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region. The declarations issued at the summit included plans to enhance maritime security, prepare for natural disasters, and build resilient infrastructure in member states. They also discussed investing in........

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