INDIA-AFRICA MARITIME ENGAGEMENT

UPSC Relevance

GS-2: International Relations – India-Africa Cooperation, Regional Diplomacy

GS-3: Security – Maritime Security, Naval Collaboration, SAGAR Vision

Key Highlights

AI-KEYME Overview

Name: Africa India Key Maritime Engagement

Location: Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania

First Edition: 2025

Goal: Foster collaborative maritime solutions for regional challenges.

Indian Naval Involvement

• Ships: INS Chennai (destroyer), INS Kesari (Landing Ship Tank), INS Sunayna (patrol vessel).
• Part of India’s SAGAR mission.
• Includes 44 personnel from nine friendly nations.

African Participation

Navies from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, and Tanzania.

Strategic Significance

1. SAGAR Alignment

Supports India’s Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and MAHASAGAR visions.

1. Naval Diplomacy

Enhances interoperability and strengthens India-Africa maritime ties.

1. Regional Stability

Addresses piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, and navigation freedom.

Symbolism & Soft Power

Ceremonial Guard on INS Chennai with Tanzania’s Defence Force.

National anthems of India and Tanzania played, symbolizing mutual respect.