Write a note on geopolitics of the Indian Ocean realm.

Defining the Indian Ocean Realm

The Indian Ocean Realm isn’t merely a geographical space; it’s a complex interplay of sea lanes, littoral states, and extra-regional actors. It’s characterized by vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) – crucial for global trade, particularly energy supplies – and strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, and the Malacca Strait. Control or influence over these chokepoints translates to significant geopolitical leverage.

Key Actors and Their Interests

• China: Driven by its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China seeks to secure energy supplies, expand its economic influence, and establish a naval presence. The ‘String of Pearls’ strategy – a network of ports and infrastructure projects across the IOR – exemplifies this ambition.
• India: As a resident naval power, India aims to maintain regional stability, protect its SLOCs, counter Chinese influence, and ensure maritime security. India’s ‘Neighborhood First’ policy and ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision reflect this.
• United States: The US maintains a significant naval presence in the IOR, primarily to counter terrorism, protect its interests, and balance China’s growing influence. Its partnerships with countries like Australia, Japan, and India (through the Quad) are central to its strategy.
• Other Regional Powers: Countries like Indonesia, Australia, Iran, and South Africa also have significant interests in the IOR, ranging from maritime security to economic development.

Competition and Cooperation

The IOR is witnessing both competition and cooperation. Competition is primarily centered around influence, access to resources, and control over strategic chokepoints. China’s increasing military presence and infrastructure development are perceived as a challenge to India’s traditional dominance. However, there are also areas of cooperation, particularly in addressing non-traditional security threats like piracy, maritime terrorism, and climate change.

Strategic Chokepoints and Their Significance

Chokepoint	Strategic Importance	Key Actors Involved
Strait of Hormuz	Controls ~20% of global oil supply	Iran, US, Saudi Arabia
Bab-el-Mandeb Strait	Connects Red Sea to Gulf of Aden; vital for Suez Canal traffic	Yemen, Saudi Arabia, US, China
Malacca Strait	Critical for East Asian trade; major oil transit route	Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, China

India’s Strategic Responses

India has adopted a multi-pronged approach to safeguard its interests in the IOR:

• Naval Modernization: Investing in advanced naval platforms and enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities.
• Diplomacy and Partnerships: Strengthening relationships with littoral states through defense cooperation, capacity building, and joint exercises. The ‘SAGAR’ vision is a key component.
• Infrastructure Development: Developing ports and maritime infrastructure in friendly countries (e.g., Chabahar Port in Iran) to enhance connectivity and counter Chinese influence.
• Multilateral Engagement: Actively participating in forums like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS).

The increasing focus on the Indo-Pacific strategy, recognizing the interconnectedness of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, further underscores India’s commitment to regional security and stability.