India-Maldives row frames the need for India’s long neglected marine doctrine

Source: The post tensions between India and Maldives has been created, based on the article “India-Maldives row frames the need for India’s long neglected marine doctrine” published in “Indian express” on 11th January 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2-International relation- India and its neighbourhood- relations.

News: The article discusses tensions between India and Maldives due to offensive remarks about India’s Prime Minister. It highlights the importance of the Maldives in India’s maritime security and suggests India should improve its diplomatic approach, considering China’s influence in the region.

India should heed K.M. Panikkar’s prediction about the critical importance of maritime strength. It’s essential to pivot from a land-centric defense policy to a more robust maritime strategy. It requires reinforcing India’s maritime diplomacy, enhancing naval capabilities, and fostering stronger ties with neighboring countries like the Maldives. By focusing on these maritime aspects, India can secure its interests in the Indian Ocean and counterbalance the growing influence of other regional powers.

Why is the Maldives important to India?

Strategic Location: The Maldives archipelago, with its 27 atolls, is strategically positioned in the Indian Ocean, integral to India’s maritime security.

Exclusive Economic Zone: It has a nearly one million square km exclusive economic zone, vital for regional influence and security.

Proximity to India: Located just 700 km from Kochi, India, the Maldives offers a significant geographic advantage.

Historical Importance: The British maintained a base on Maldives’ Gan Island until 1976, indicating the long-recognized strategic value of the region.

What is the issue with India’s diplomatic approach?

Continental Fixation: India’s focus has been more on land-based defense, leading to sporadic and random maritime initiatives. India needs to keep the countries like Maldives close, it will help in strengthening India’s maritime position.

Perception of Dominance: Indian diplomacy can seem patronizing, particularly in smaller neighboring nations like the Maldives..

Impact of Domestic Politics: Domestic issues in India, such as unchecked communal speeches, can negatively impact its image abroad.

Need for Sensitive Diplomacy: India’s approach has sometimes been seen as overbearing, underlining the need for more sensitivity and balance in its diplomatic relations, particularly with smaller nations.

China’s Maritime Investments: China’s politico-economic strategies include investments in regional countries, enhancing its influence in the Indian Ocean. Additionally, the development of strategic ports like Hambantota in Sri Lanka and Gwadar in Pakistan, along with leasing a military/naval base in Djibouti, further challenges India’s regional influence.

Use of the “Islamic Card”: Coupling its influence with Pakistan’s religious incitement, China is positioning itself as a significant player in predominantly Muslim nations like the Maldives.

What initiatives have been taken by India to overcome maritime issues?

Creation of a Specialized Naval Unit: In 2005-06, India established a dedicated naval organization for foreign cooperation, led by a two-star admiral.

Equipment Transfer to Neighboring Countries: India transferred patrol boats, aircraft, and helicopters from its own navy to Sri Lanka, Maldives, Myanmar, and Seychelles.

Training and Advisory Support: The Indian Navy has provided training and advisors to maritime neighbors.

Responsive to Regional Crises: India has consistently been the first responder in regional crises, such as the 1988 Maldives coup attempt, the 2004 tsunami, and the 2014 water crisis in Maldives.

Maritime Diplomacy Enhancement: India’s maritime diplomacy initiatives aim to shape the maritime environment favorably, aligning with its foreign policy and national security objectives.

Promotion of SAGAR Vision: India’s 2015 SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative emphasizes broad regional maritime cooperation.

For more information on SAGAR read here

For more information on India Maldives relation read here

Question for practice:

Discuss the factors that make the Maldives important to India’s maritime security and the issues with India’s diplomatic approach in the region.