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)
- Global Trade Hub: Handles 70% of global container traffic and 90% of India’s energy imports, making it a vital economic artery.
- Maritime Security: Key sea lanes, such as the Strait of Malacca, Hormuz, and Bab el Mandeb, are crucial for uninterrupted international trade.
- Resource Abundance: Rich in fisheries, oil, gas, and minerals, sustaining regional economies.
- 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
- SAGAR Initiative (2015): India’s Security and Growth for All in the Region policy ensures maritime stability.
- Naval Strength & Security Operations: Conducts joint naval exercises like MILAN, Malabar, and Varuna to reinforce defense cooperation.
- Trade & Economic Development: Promotes port development through Sagarmala and advances the Blue Economy for sustainable resource use.
- Humanitarian & Disaster Relief: Actively leads HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) missions, supporting nations in crisis.
- 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
- Strengthening Maritime Infrastructure: Invest in modernizing ports, expanding naval capabilities, and improving undersea surveillance.
- Enhancing Regional Cooperation: Deepen ties with IORA, QUAD, and other security frameworks for maritime stability.
- Promoting Sustainable Blue Economy: Support fisheries, marine industries, and renewable ocean energy projects.
- Countering External Influence: Secure regional communication networks and prevent foreign dominance over critical maritime zones.
- Disaster Preparedness & Climate Action: Establish early warning systems, climate resilience programs, and disaster response mechanisms.
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Mains Question
Examine India’s strategic role in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and its efforts to maintain maritime security and regional stability. (250 words)
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