India's Role in the Indian Ocean Region

FROM SAGAR TO MAHASAGAR: INDIA’S STRATEGIC EVOLUTION IN THE INDIAN OCEAN REGION

Introduction

The Indian Ocean has always been a vital theatre of global geopolitics, shaping trade, security, and strategic calculations. Alfred Mahan’s famous dictum, “Whoever controls the oceans, runs the world,” holds renewed significance in the 21st century, as major powers compete for influence in the Indo-Pacific. For India, the ocean is not just a route of commerce but a sphere of security and civilisational outreach.

In 2015, India launched the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine, aimed at ensuring maritime security and regional cooperation. Over the last decade, however, India’s ambitions have expanded. This has led to the articulation of the MAHASAGAR vision — Maritime and Allied Hub for Security And Growth for All in the Region — announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius in 2025. It reflects a shift from regional maritime security to a comprehensive global maritime strategy covering economics, diplomacy, and sustainable development.

FAQs

1. What is SAGAR and why was it launched?

SAGAR was introduced in 2015 as India’s maritime doctrine. Its five pillars were:

• Security cooperation through naval collaboration.
• Trade and blue economy integration.
• Capacity building and disaster management.
• Sustainable development of marine resources.
• Connectivity and infrastructure including ports, digital links, and energy corridors.

It positioned India as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

2. What does MAHASAGAR stand for?

The term MAHASAGAR expands as Maritime and Allied Hub for Security And Growth for All in the Region.

It symbolises India’s ambition to become a comprehensive maritime leader, broadening SAGAR’s scope from maritime security to economic, geopolitical, and developmental cooperation. The word “Maha” in Hindi/Sanskrit means great, implying a Great Ocean vision.

3. How did the term MAHASAGAR originate?

The term was articulated during PM Modi’s Mauritius visit in 2025, building on SAGAR’s success. It emerged as a response to:

• China’s expanding influence through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and String of Pearls.
• India’s need to expand leadership in the Global South and ensure independence of smaller island states.
• Recognition that the Indian Ocean is not just about security, but also trade, digital connectivity, sustainable growth, and strategic governance.

4. How is MAHASAGAR different from SAGAR?

SAGAR was focused mainly on maritime security and growth in the Indian Ocean.

MAHASAGAR expands the agenda to include:

• Strategic containment of China.
• Wider economic integration and digital platforms.
• Blue economy and sustainable resource use.
• Greater diplomatic outreach to the Global South.
• Leadership in renewable energy, climate action, and disaster management.

5. What is the role of Mauritius in India’s strategic outlook?

Mauritius is central to India’s Indian Ocean diplomacy. During PM Modi’s visit, India announced a $655 million package to fund critical projects — airports, ports, hospitals, and schools.

Key MoUs signed include:

• Hydrography, oceanography, and power cooperation.
• Satellite tracking and civil services training.
• Bilateral trade in local currencies via UPI and RuPay.

Mauritius benefits strategically by enhancing its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) security and economically by aligning with India’s blue economy vision. The partnership is described as “not just partners, but family.”

6. How does MAHASAGAR benefit India?

• Strengthens India’s geopolitical position in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific.
• Counters Chinese penetration in the region.
• Ensures safe maritime trade routes critical for energy imports.
• Enhances India’s leadership in the Global South, giving it greater diplomatic clout.
• Expands India’s role in technology, digital payments, renewable energy, and climate resilience.

Conclusion

India’s maritime journey from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR reflects its transformation from a regional security provider to a global maritime power with economic, strategic, and diplomatic depth. With Mauritius as a trusted ally, India cements its leadership in the Indian Ocean while projecting influence across the Global South.