India’s Indo-Pacific Ambitions: The Indian Ocean Remains Key
Over 90% of India’s trade travels the Indian Ocean. Yet, New Delhi’s strategic gaze has increasingly turned eastward, embracing the expansive Indo-Pacific concept. But this ambition, fueled by a rising China and a shifting global order, risks becoming detached from reality if India doesn’t first solidify its dominance in its own backyard. The path to becoming a true Indo-Pacific power isn’t through the Pacific; it’s from the Indian Ocean.
The Indo-Pacific Shift: More Rhetoric Than Reality?
India’s articulation of an Indo-Pacific vision, notably through Prime Minister Modi’s 2018 Shangri-La Dialogue address, signaled a significant broadening of strategic horizons. Participation in the Quad security dialogue, deepening ties with ASEAN nations, and initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) demonstrate this intent. However, a cohesive strategy linking military capabilities, diplomatic efforts, and economic engagement remains elusive. Currently, India’s approach feels like a collection of promising initiatives rather than a unified, long-term plan.
Why the Indian Ocean Matters More Than Ever
The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) isn’t simply another geographical area for India; it’s fundamental to its economic and security interests. Beyond the sheer volume of trade – over 90% by volume and the majority of energy imports – India’s island territories, like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, provide crucial strategic depth. Historical relationships with littoral states across Africa, the Gulf, and South Asia offer invaluable diplomatic leverage. This centrality is reflected in increased naval deployments, coastal surveillance, and strengthened partnerships with nations like Mauritius, Seychelles, and Maldives, all signaling a desire to be the region’s primary security provider.
A Parliamentary Call for Greater Focus
A recent report by the Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs underscored this point, explicitly labeling the IOR India’s “strategic lifeline.” The report advocates for deeper engagement with all 35 littoral states, clearer articulation of initiatives like SAGAR and Mahasagar, and improved coordination between government ministries. Critically, it highlights the need to counter China’s growing influence through infrastructure projects and political maneuvering – a challenge that demands sustained Indian leadership.
China’s Expanding Footprint: A Catalyst for Action
Beijing’s increasing investment in ports and dual-use infrastructure throughout the IOR – from Gwadar in Pakistan to Hambantota in Sri Lanka and Djibouti – is steadily expanding its influence. This expansion isn’t merely economic; it represents a strategic encroachment on India’s traditional sphere of influence. Without a more robust Indian presence, these projects risk limiting New Delhi’s strategic options and eroding its regional advantages. However, competition with China shouldn’t be the sole driver of India’s IOR policy. Opportunities exist to forge coalitions based on shared interests and historical ties, positioning India as a preferred partner through security cooperation, infrastructure development, and capacity building.
From Aspiration to Execution: A Coherent Indian Ocean Strategy
India’s Indo-Pacific rhetoric has set expectations, but fulfilling them requires a shift from ambition to concrete action. A comprehensive Indian Ocean strategy, integrating defense, diplomacy, development, and trade, is the logical starting point. This strategy would not only bolster India’s immediate maritime security but also create the necessary institutional, logistical, and diplomatic foundations for projecting power further east. Leadership in the IOR lends credibility to India’s broader Indo-Pacific role; influence in distant waters is far more convincing when backed by undisputed dominance in its own maritime neighborhood.
The key isn’t simply having a navy, but demonstrating the ability to consistently and effectively secure vital sea lanes, provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and act as a reliable partner for regional security. This requires sustained investment in naval capabilities, enhanced maritime domain awareness, and a proactive diplomatic approach.
The Path Forward: Prioritizing the IOR for Indo-Pacific Success
India’s embrace of the Indo-Pacific narrative is a necessary evolution in its foreign policy. However, ambition without a clear strategy risks being ineffective. Currently, India remains, first and foremost, an Indian Ocean power, wielding significant influence in its immediate maritime sphere but still developing the capabilities needed for broader power projection. The lesson is clear: strengthening the IOR foundation through decisive leadership, a well-defined strategy, and sustained engagement is not just desirable – it’s essential for India to become a shaping force in the Indo-Pacific region. What steps will India take next to secure its strategic lifeline and realize its Indo-Pacific ambitions?
Explore further analysis of India’s maritime strategy and regional security dynamics at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies.
