Challenges to India's Maritime Doctrine.

 Ever since the dawn of the 21st century India has been expanding its influence in 'hard power' & 'soft power' through maritime domain. India has been blessed with 7500 km long coast line. This represents opportunities in connectivity and blue economy. However it poses challenges of maritime security. One example of such challenge is 2008 Mumbai Attacks. In this context, a credible maritime strategy is needed.

Need for credible maritime doctrine:

  • National Security.
  • Relations with maritime neighbors such as Maldives, Sri Lanka, Seychelles.
  • Energy security to prevent disruption to critical imports like oil.
  • Maritime trade as nearly 70% of India's trade is through shipping.
  • Countering China's aggressive presence (eg. string of pearls.)
  • Preventing disputes such as fishermen dispute with Sri Lanka.

Challenges in framing credible maritime strategy:

  • Chinese influence: 9 dash line, warships, string of pearls
  • Limited partnership: in organizations like RCEP, APEC, AUISI  
  • Risk of climate change: example- South China sea typhoons
  • Limited only to soft power: example- Pacific Islands dependent on china for trade. 
  • Limited Budget: only 15% of military budget is spent on Naval operations 
  • Security Issues: example piracy in horn of Africa.


Going forward greater co operations with neighboring is needed We should strengthen SAARC & BIMSTEC. Prime Minister's SAGAR (Security & Growth for all in the region) should be focused upon. Look East & Act East, engagement with QUAD, Malabar exercises are also likely to help India's maritime security.

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