India is strategically increasing its engagement with Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asian states as a countermeasure to China's growing geopolitical influence. This move aims to balance China's perceived encirclement strategy, which includes significant investments and partnerships in countries like Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. Drawing parallels to historical Indian diplomatic strategies, this pivot seeks to create strategic depth, secure trade routes, and enhance logistical resilience against external pressures.