Securing India's Interests in the Indian Ocean Region – Drishti IAS

    
This editorial is based on “The Chagos Treaty and Indian Ocean Security” which was published in The Hindu on 08/10/2024.  The article brings into picture the strategic significance of the Chagos Archipelago’s sovereignty transfer for India, highlighting opportunities for enhanced cooperation with Mauritius. It also points to the challenges posed by the continued US-UK military presence and China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean Region.
For Prelims: Indian Ocean Region, Chagos Archipelago , INS Vikrant,  Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region , India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, String of Pearls, India’s “Act East” and Neighbourhood First” , Indian Ocean Rim Association., Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Cyclone Idai, BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, Cyclone Remal, Sagarmala programme 
For Mains: Significance of the Indian Ocean Region for India, Major Challenges that India Encounter in the Indian Ocean 
The recent agreement between Mauritius and the United Kingdom to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago represents a significant shift in the Indian Ocean Region’s geopolitical landscape. This development presents both opportunities and challenges for India, given the archipelago’s strategic location between India and Mauritius. With Mauritius gaining control, there are prospects for enhanced bilateral cooperation in maritime surveillance, resource exploitation, and development. 
However, the continued US-UK military presence on Diego Garcia for the next 99 years complicates the situation. This long-term Western military footprint, alongside China’s rising influence in the region, requires India to carefully balance its relationships while safeguarding its interests and promoting stability in the Indian Ocean. 

India’s strategic engagement in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is crucial for enhancing its maritime security, economic interests, and geopolitical influence. To navigate this complex landscape, India must focus on strengthening its naval capabilities, expanding strategic partnerships, enhancing maritime domain awareness, and actively pursuing its Blue Economy agenda. By adopting a multifaceted approach, India can effectively assert its role as a key player in ensuring regional stability and security in the IOR. 
Drishti Mains Question:
The Indian Ocean holds immense strategic significance for India’s security, trade, and regional influence. Analyze the key challenges and opportunities for India in the Indian Ocean region.
 

Q. India is a member of which among the following? (2015)
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only 
(b) 3 only 
(c) 1, 2 and 3  
(d) India is a member of none of them 
Ans: (b)
Q.1 What is the significance of Indo-US defense deals over Indo-Russian defense deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (2020)

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