India’s strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific, underscored by its Act East Policy (AEP) and participation in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), has established it as a key proponent of regional stability, maritime security, and economic cooperation. These initiatives primarily address traditional security and economic interests, and gender dynamics remain a secondary consideration in India’s foreign policy framework. This paper investigates the intersection of gender and security within India’s Indo-Pacific strategies, arguing that integrating gender inclusivity into India’s policies can enhance its leadership and broaden the scope of regional and global security outcomes. Through a gender lens, this paper assesses India’s foreign policy efforts, particularly through the AEP and the Quad, analysing how these frameworks can address non traditional security challenges such as human trafficking, climate change, and public health crises – issues that disproportionately impact women and other marginalised communities. The study utilises feminist theories of International Relations, the notion of strongman politics, and qualitative policy analysis to make recommendations for gender sensitive policy making.