STRENGTHENING INDIA’S STRATEGIC DEPTH IN THE SHALLOW WATERS OF MALDIVES

Abstract

This article looks into the challenges and opportunities facing India, particularly on its maritime security domain. It analyses the increased strategic cooperation between India and Maldives in the Indian Ocean region and how it will be mutually beneficial for both the nations on strengthening their security, countering piracy and terrorism and help economic development. It also analyses how India is strategically well poised vis-a-vis China in the region, to thwart any Chinese supremacy through the so called ‘string of pearls.’ India’s relations with the Maldives have always been excellent and the maritime dimension offers greater prospects for trust-building through cooperation and mutual benefit. For India, the strategic and investment priorities undertaken with Maldives will better enable success at present.