Title: China’s Strategic Maneuver in South Asia: Analyzing the String of Pearls and Its Consequences for India

This study scrutinizes the strategic expansion of China within South Asia through the analytical prism of the ‘String of Pearls’ theory. It posits that China is systematically establishing a series of maritime assets that could potentially serve dual commercial and military purposes, encircling India and influencing the regional security architecture. The paper dissects China’s strategic motivations, the deployment of its methods, and the resultant ramifications on the South Asian nations, with a particular focus on India. It provides a nuanced understanding of the geopolitical shifts engendered by China’s ascendancy, offering strategic insights for policymakers to craft informed responses. The research underscores the imperative of comprehending China’s burgeoning clout to safeguard regional equilibrium and foster constructive engagement amongst South Asian states.