Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Piracy in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), particularly in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, has been a persistent threat to maritime trade and security. In 2012, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) redefined the high-risk area for piracy, shifting the longitudinal boundary from 65°E to 78°E. This adjustment, intended to reflect the evolving piracy landscape, has significant ramifications for India, given its extensive coastline, crucial sea lanes of communication (SLOCs), and growing economic and strategic interests in the IOR. The shift necessitates a reassessment of India’s maritime security apparatus and its collaborative efforts with regional and international partners.
Understanding the Shift and its Rationale
Prior to 2012, the 65°E line demarcated the High-Risk Area (HRA) where Best Management Practices (BMP) for protection against piracy were recommended. The shift to 78°E was prompted by a decline in piracy incidents west of 65°E and an increase in attacks further east, closer to the Indian coast and the Gulf of Oman. This change aimed to focus international naval efforts and resources on the areas where the threat was most prevalent.
Impact on India’s Maritime Security Concerns
Economic Impact
- Increased Security Costs: The expanded HRA necessitates increased patrolling and security measures by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, leading to higher operational costs.
- Trade Disruption: While piracy incidents have fluctuated, the potential for disruption to India’s vital trade routes – over 90% of India’s trade by volume is conducted via sea – remains a concern.
- Insurance Premiums: The perceived risk in the expanded HRA can lead to higher insurance premiums for vessels transiting the region, impacting the cost of trade.
Security Impact
- Expanded Area of Responsibility: The shift places a greater burden on India to secure a larger swathe of the Arabian Sea. This includes increased surveillance, anti-piracy patrols, and potential engagement with pirates.
- Increased Threat to Indian Vessels: Indian-flagged vessels and those with Indian crew are more vulnerable within the expanded HRA.
- Potential for Spillover Effects: Piracy can be linked to other transnational crimes, such as terrorism and arms smuggling, posing a broader security threat to India.
Diplomatic and Regional Impact
- Enhanced Regional Cooperation: The shift necessitates closer cooperation with regional navies, such as those of Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Oman, to share intelligence and coordinate patrols.
- Strengthened Bilateral Ties: India’s anti-piracy efforts can strengthen its bilateral relationships with countries in the IOR.
- Leadership Role: India can leverage its maritime capabilities to assume a leadership role in ensuring maritime security in the region.
India’s Response and Way Forward
India has responded to the evolving piracy threat through a multi-pronged approach:
- Increased Naval Deployment: The Indian Navy has consistently deployed warships and aircraft to patrol the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden.
- Coordinated Patrols: India actively participates in coordinated patrols with other navies, such as the US Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force.
- Capacity Building: India provides training and equipment to coastal states in the IOR to enhance their maritime security capabilities.
- Information Sharing: India shares intelligence on piracy threats with regional and international partners through mechanisms like the Information Fusion Centre (IFC) in Gurugram.
Further strengthening India’s maritime security requires continued investment in surveillance technology, enhanced intelligence gathering, and proactive diplomacy to address the root causes of piracy, such as poverty and lack of governance in coastal areas.
Conclusion
The IMO’s shift in the HRA demarcation has undeniably increased India’s maritime security responsibilities in the Arabian Sea. While India has demonstrated a robust response through naval deployments and regional cooperation, sustained efforts are crucial to mitigate the evolving piracy threat and safeguard its economic and strategic interests. A proactive, collaborative, and technologically advanced approach is essential for ensuring maritime security in the IOR and maintaining India’s position as a net security provider in the region.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.