[Answered] Examine the implications of the Maldives’ decision to revoke the agreement with India for joint hydrographic surveys, in the context of India’s regional security and strategic interests.

The Maldives’ recent move to annul the agreement with India for collaborative hydrographic surveys in Maldivian waters has stirred disappointment within Indian media and strategic circles. Signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2019 visit to the islands, the accord was viewed as a significant symbol of the robust defence ties between India and the Maldives.

Implications for regional security and strategic interests

• Geopolitical Implications: The choice could affect the balance of power in the Indian Ocean region and have wider geopolitical ramifications. It might have an impact on India’s capacity to sustain stability and security as well as its strategic outreach, especially in light of conflicting influences from other regional and international actors.
• Strategic Importance of Hydrographic Surveys: The growth of blue economies, navigation, and maritime security all depend on hydrographic surveys. The revocation might make it more difficult for India to compile in-depth information about the maritime environment in the area, which could impair its capacity for strategic planning and response.
• Effect on Defence Ties: The agreement’s annulment suggests that India and the Maldives’ defence ties may be put under stress. Joint hydrographic surveys were seen as a cooperative endeavour, and the decision would erode confidence and coordination in defence cooperation.
• Effect on Regional Security Architecture: There may be a wider regional security architecture affected by the revocation. India is crucial to the upkeep of maritime security in the Indian Ocean, and any pressure on its relations with its neighbours might have an impact on international efforts to tackle shared security issues.
• Economic and Development collaboration: India and the Maldives’ collaboration in several areas may be affected by the decision. Hydrographic survey collaboration is frequently linked to larger programs for sustainable development and resource management in marine areas.
• Concerns about Navigational Safety: Hydrographic surveys help ensure safe navigation, particularly in areas vulnerable to natural disasters. Joint surveys are lacking, which could affect both domestic and foreign marine traffic by raising questions about the safety of navigation in Maldivian seas.

Conclusion

The best option for the Maldives is to enhance maritime awareness and security in partnership with India. The new administration must recognize that it is not India but China that seeks to weaponize ocean surveys. India would need to carefully navigate these challenges to safeguard its strategic interests and maintain stability in the Indian Ocean region.