India in the Indian Ocean Region

GS3 – International relation

Context:

India, alongside Singapore and Oman, is co-hosting the 8th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Muscat, where foreign ministers from 30 nations are deliberating on regional security and economic cooperation.

Understanding the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)

• The third-largest ocean globally, spanning 70.56 million sq km, linking Asia, Africa, and Australia.
• A historic trade corridor, shaped by Indian maritime influence over centuries.

Countries in the IOR

• 26 coastal nations, including India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman, Indonesia, Australia, South Africa, and Somalia.
• Landlocked nations like Nepal and Bhutan also rely on trade routes within the region.

Significance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)

1. Global Trade Hub: Handles 70% of global container traffic and 90% of India’s energy imports, making it a vital economic artery.
2. Maritime Security: Key sea lanes, such as the Strait of Malacca, Hormuz, and Bab el Mandeb, are crucial for uninterrupted international trade.
3. Resource Abundance: Rich in fisheries, oil, gas, and minerals, sustaining regional economies.
4. Strategic Importance: Home to naval bases of major powers, including the US, UK, China, and France, shaping global security dynamics.

India’s Strategic Role in the Indian Ocean Region

1. SAGAR Initiative (2015): India’s Security and Growth for All in the Region policy ensures maritime stability.
2. Naval Strength & Security Operations: Conducts joint naval exercises like MILAN, Malabar, and Varuna to reinforce defense cooperation.
3. Trade & Economic Development: Promotes port development through Sagarmala and advances the Blue Economy for sustainable resource use.
4. Humanitarian & Disaster Relief: Actively leads HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) missions, supporting nations in crisis.
5. Diplomatic & Strategic Alliances: Engages with IORA, BIMSTEC, and QUAD to foster regional maritime governance.

Key Challenges in the IOR

• China’s Expanding Influence: The String of Pearls strategy and increased Chinese naval presence pose security concerns.
• Maritime Crimes & Piracy: Threats like Somali piracy, illegal fishing, and arms smuggling disrupt trade and stability.
• Climate Change & Rising Sea Levels: Small island nations face existential risks from coastal erosion and submersion.
• Cyber & Undersea Security Threats: Chinese control over subsea cables raises concerns over data security and communication networks.
• Maritime Terrorism & Trafficking: Persistent risks of drug smuggling, human trafficking, and sea-based terror activities.

The Way Forward

1. Strengthening Maritime Infrastructure: Invest in modernizing ports, expanding naval capabilities, and improving undersea surveillance.
2. Enhancing Regional Cooperation: Deepen ties with IORA, QUAD, and other security frameworks for maritime stability.
3. Promoting Sustainable Blue Economy: Support fisheries, marine industries, and renewable ocean energy projects.
4. Countering External Influence: Secure regional communication networks and prevent foreign dominance over critical maritime zones.
5. Disaster Preparedness & Climate Action: Establish early warning systems, climate resilience programs, and disaster response mechanisms.