IJ
IJCRM
International Journal of Contemporary Research in Multidisciplinary
ISSN: 2583-7397
Open Access • Peer Reviewed
Impact Factor: 5.67

International Journal of Contemporary Research In Multidisciplinary, 2026;5(3):143-147

Geopolitical Significance of BBIN In South Asia

Author Name: Gokul Mondal;  

1. Department of Political Science, University of Kalyani, West Bengal, India

Abstract

The BBIN project, which includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal, is a subregional framework meant to improve connectivity, economic cooperation, and geopolitical stability in South Asia. BBIN is becoming a practical replacement for the paralysis of larger regional groups, concentrating on functional collaboration in fields such as transportation, commerce, energy, and person-to-person connection. This research investigates the geopolitical relevance of BBIN by placing it inside the changing strategic environment of South Asia, distinguished by increasing regional imbalances, the growing influence of foreign countries, and the need for regional integration. The article claims that India's "Neighbourhood First" approach uses BBIN as a vital tool to further its strategic goals of slowing down China's growing presence in the area, especially under programs such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Simultaneously, even with concerns about sovereignty and unequal reliance on India, BBIN presents smaller countries like Nepal and Bhutan with chances for economic diversification and infrastructural expansion. Using its economic expansion and geographic location to serve as a regional centre, Bangladesh has become a major participant.

 

The BBIN Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA) is a key part of the plan, meant to make it easier for people and goods to move between countries. But the growth of BBIN has been inconsistent, as shown by Bhutan's decision to withdraw from the MVA out of environmental and domestic concerns, therefore underscoring the difficulties of subregional collaboration. Notwithstanding these obstacles, BBIN represents a change from conventional political collaboration to functional and issue-based regionalism.

Keywords

BBIN, South Asia, Regional Connectivity, Geopolitics, Subregional Cooperation.