India in Indian Ocean Region

General Studies Paper -2

Context: India, along with Singapore and Oman, is hosting the 8th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Muscat, where foreign ministers from 30 nations are discussing regional security and economic cooperation.

What is the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)?

• The third-largest ocean in the world, covering 70.56 million sq km and connecting Asia, Africa, and Australia.
• A natural trade corridor historically influenced by Indian civilization and maritime networks.

Nations Surrounding IOR:

• 26 coastal nations, including India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman, Indonesia, Australia, South Africa, and Somalia.
• Landlocked countries like Nepal and Bhutan also depend on IOR trade routes.

Importance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR):

• Global Trade Hub: Facilitates 70% of global container traffic and 90% of India’s energy imports, making it a key economic corridor.
• Maritime Security: Critical sea lanes like the Strait of Malacca, Hormuz, and Bab el Mandeb ensure uninterrupted global trade.
• Resource-Rich Waters: Contains vast fisheries, oil, gas, and mineral deposits, crucial for regional economies.
• Strategic Significance: Hosts naval bases of major powers (US, UK, China, France), influencing global security dynamics.

India’s Role in Managing the Indian Ocean Region:

• SAGAR Initiative (2015): Launched by PM Modi to promote Security and Growth for All in the Region, ensuring maritime stability.
• Naval Capabilities & Regional Security: Indian Navy conducts joint exercises (MILAN, Malabar, Varuna) to strengthen regional defense cooperation.
• Economic & Trade Leadership: India develops ports via Sagarmala and promotes the Blue Economy for sustainable ocean resource utilization.
• Disaster Relief & Humanitarian Assistance: Plays a leading role in HADR operations, assisting countries during natural disasters and emergencies.
• Diplomatic & Strategic Alliances: Strengthens regional partnerships through IORA, BIMSTEC, and QUAD for collective maritime governance.

Challenges in the Indian Ocean Region:

• China’s Expanding Influence: String of Pearls strategy and growing naval presence challenge regional stability and India’s interests.
• Piracy & Maritime Crimes: Somali piracy, illegal fishing, and arms smuggling disrupt trade and security operations.
• Climate Change & Rising Sea Levels: Small Island nations face existential threats due to coastal erosion and submergence risks.
• Undersea Surveillance & Cyber Threats: Chinese control over subsea cables poses risks to data security and regional communications.
• Maritime Terrorism & Trafficking: Drug smuggling, human trafficking, and sea-based terrorism remain persistent security threats.

Way Ahead:

• Strengthening Maritime Infrastructure: Invest in port modernization, naval expansion, and undersea surveillance systems.
• Enhancing Regional Cooperation: Deepen partnerships with IORA, QUAD, and bilateral maritime security agreements.
• Boosting Blue Economy & Sustainable Development: Promote fisheries, ocean industries, and clean energy solutions for long-term sustainability.
• Countering External Influence: Protect regional communication networks and prevent foreign dominance in key maritime sectors.
• Disaster Preparedness & Climate Action: Develop early warning systems, climate resilience plans, and disaster relief infrastructure.

Conclusion:

The Indian Ocean Region is a vital geopolitical and economic hub, influencing global trade, security, and regional stability. India’s proactive leadership through SAGAR and IORA is crucial in maintaining peace and prosperity. Strengthening maritime security, infrastructure, and regional alliances will ensure India’s prominence in the global maritime order.