Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and/energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition? (2024, 15 Marks)

Paper	GS Paper 2
Word Limit	250 words
Syllabus Topic	International Relations – India and its Neighbourhood

Model Answer

Maldives is a chain of about 1,200 coral islands in the central Indian Ocean. It lies close to India’s Lakshadweep, separated by the Eight Degree Channel. Its location makes it vital for India’s Neighbourhood First policy.

Geopolitical and Geostrategic Importance

• Sea lanes: Major SLOCs (sea lines of communication) from the Gulf to East Asia pass close to Maldives.
• Energy flows: Oil and gas tankers bound for India and East Asia use these routes.
• Trade: India’s west-coast trade depends on safe nearby waters.
• Strategic watch post: It helps monitor ship movement in the Arabian Sea and central Indian Ocean.

Impact on India’s Maritime Security

• First responder: Operation Cactus (1988) stopped a coup; India helped after the 2004 tsunami; Operation Neer (2014) sent water to Malé.
• Capacity building: India supports the Uthuru Thila Falhu coast guard harbour and training of Maldivian forces.
• Cooperation: Colombo Security Conclave and the trilateral coast guard exercise Dosti.

Regional Stability amid Competition

• China’s presence: Belt and Road projects and loans raise debt and security worries.
• Political swings: The “India Out” campaign led to withdrawal of Indian military staff in 2024.
• Reset: In 2024, India gave a currency swap support and both sides adopted a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.
• Development help: The India-funded Greater Malé Connectivity Project builds goodwill.

Conclusion

A stable, friendly Maldives is key to a secure Indian Ocean. India should stay a trusted partner through aid and respect, guided by MAHASAGAR and Neighbourhood First.

Related PYQs

• Discuss the political developments in Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause of concern to India? (2013)
• What do you understand by ‘The String of Pearls’? How does it impact India? Briefly outline the steps taken by India to counter this. (2013)
• How are climate change and the sea level rise affecting the very existence of many island nations? Discuss with examples. (2025)