In Delhi’s support for Arab Gulf, a return of the Bombay school of thought

UPSC Syllabus: Gs Paper 2- International relation

Introduction

The Gulf has now become a top strategic priority for India, especially during the ongoing tensions in the Persian Gulf. It is not a distant region but India’s immediate neighbourhood with strong economic and social ties. India’s response shows a clear shift in thinking. This shift reflects a return to an older strategic idea, where maritime connections and Gulf relations are central to India’s security and growth. In Delhi’s support for Arab Gulf, a return of the Bombay school of thought.

What are “Bombay School of thought” and “Ludhiana School of thought”?

1. Bombay School of thought:

Maritime outlook:It sees India’s security starting from the sea and focuses on trade, ports, and naval strength. It treats the Gulf, Persia, and Arabian regions as the outer layer of India’s defence.

Policy tools: It uses diplomacy, trade, and naval presence to shape regional politics. Control of sea lanes and influence in coastal regions are seen as key instruments.

2. Ludhiana School of though:

Continental outlook: It focuses on land borders and sees threats coming through regions like Afghanistan. It gives priority to land-based defence and frontier control.

Policy tools: It relies on military presence, alliances with local forces, and political influence in border regions. Afghanistan is treated as the central buffer for India’s security.

Evolution of India’s Security Approach

1. Colonial roots of the debate: The strategic divide began during the Great Game after external threats exposed India’s western vulnerabilities. Two different approaches to defence emerged from this period.
2. Shift after Anglo-Afghan experience: The First Anglo-Afghan War showed the risks of deep continental involvement. Yet, land-focused thinking continued to dominate.
3. Post-independence continental focus: After 1947, India focused on defending land borders with Pakistan. Trade, ports, and maritime strategy became less important.
4. Decline of maritime centres: Major port cities lost importance as Delhi became the main centre of power. Strategic thinking became more land-oriented.
5. Revival after economic reforms: The 1990s reforms brought trade and global integration back. This gradually restored attention to maritime strategy and external economic links.
6. Continued continental pressure: Despite this revival, persistent land threats kept India’s strategic focus largely tied to the continent.

Why is the Gulf suddenly so important?

1. Geographical proximity: The Gulf lies very close to India, separated only by a narrow stretch of water. It is part of India’s immediate strategic environment, not a distant region.
2. Economic and social linkages: India has deep connections with the Gulf through labour, trade, and cultural ties. These links make the region highly important for India’s stability.
3. Diaspora and remittances: Nearly 9 million Indians live and work in the Gulf, sending around $50 billion annually. This makes the region vital for India’s economy.
4. Energy and logistics dependence: India depends heavily on the Gulf for energy and trade routes. This creates a strong strategic need to ensure stability in the region.

Re-emergence of the Bombay School in Present Context

1. Rise of the Gulf region: The rapid growth of oil-rich Gulf countries increased their importance for India. The region became central to India’s economy and external engagement.
2. Shift from Iran to Arab Gulf: After 1979, Iran’s confrontational politics limited engagement. Arab Gulf countries steadily became more important for India.
3. Return of maritime thinking: India is now focusing on sea routes, trade, and Gulf relations. This reflects a clear revival of Bombay School logic.
4. Strategic centrality of the Gulf: The Gulf is now a key part of India’s economic and social system. It acts as an extension of India’s own space.

Challenges in Implementation

1. Persistent land threats: India still faces serious challenges from Pakistan along its land borders. These threats cannot be ignored while focusing on maritime strategy.
2. Need for balance: India cannot choose only one approach between land and sea. Both maritime and continental strategies are necessary for full security.
3. Regional instability factors: Pakistan continues to use proxies and extremist elements. Iran’s political system also creates challenges in the region.

Way Forward

1. Integration of two approaches: India needs to combine maritime strength with strong land defence. This will ensure balanced and effective security.
2. Strengthening Gulf engagement: India should deepen ties with Arab Gulf countries through trade, diplomacy, and security cooperation. This will strengthen its strategic position.
3. Leveraging positive regional trends: The Arab Gulf is showing political moderation and economic openness. This creates an opportunity for stable and long-term partnerships.

Conclusion

India’s growing support for the Gulf shows a clear return to maritime thinking rooted in the Bombay School. The Gulf has become central to India’s economy, security, and external relations. However, India must not ignore land-based threats. The key challenge is to combine both approaches effectively.. A balanced strategy will help India secure its interests and maintain stability in a complex regional environment.

Question for Practise:

Discuss how India’s growing support for the Arab Gulf reflects a return to the Bombay School of thought, in contrast to the Ludhiana School, and examine its implications for India’s strategic priorities.

Source: Indian Express