TY - JOUR AB - Purpose The main purpose of paper is to analyse the political, military and strategic significance of China’s rising power and its influence on Sino-Indian relations, while addressing the question as to why India has not been able to develop a long-term, stable and friendly relationship with China.Design/methodology/approach The paper is structured as follows: historical overview of India-China relations; various tools of China’s policy in Indian sub-continent; and India’s response. The paper employs a qualitative analysis of secondary literature, with media reports, official documents and public statements providing important sources for understanding the dynamics underlying bilateral relationship.Findings India needs to be prepared to face challenges as China’s charm offensive in India’s neighbourhood is primarily aimed at establishing a new Asian order in which Beijing would play the leading role. As China institutionalizes its military presence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean, India should adopt an innovative response mechanism, also involving counter-presence in areas considered China’s traditional sphere of influence.Originality/value The primary value of the paper lies in the fact that it covers most of the key dimensions of bilateral ties that impair a stable relationship between India and China. A proper understanding of the dynamics underlying bilateral ties may help the policymakers, scholars and academics to suggest ways to reduce sources of tensions, while also helping the Indian Government to prepare effective countermeasures. VL - 16 IS - 2 SN - 1871-2673 DO - 10.1108/STICS-05-2020-0016 UR - https://doi.org/10.1108/STICS-05-2020-0016 AU - Kaura Vinay PY - 2020 Y1 - 2020/01/01 TI - Rising powers or bitter frenemies? India-China relations in the 21st century? T2 - Social Transformations in Chinese Societies PB - Emerald Publishing Limited SP - 111 EP - 138 Y2 - 2024/03/29 ER -