The increasing presence of China in infrastructure and maritime activities within the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has become a significant concern for India. A report from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs highlights China's pursuit of dual-use port development, an uptick in the deployment of survey and naval vessels, and the expansion of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) into essential littoral countries. These advancements pose challenges to India's regional influence and maritime security framework, particularly against the backdrop of India's initiatives like SAGAR, Project Mausam, and its ambition to be a Net Security Provider in the IOR.
One of the primary concerns surrounding China’s activities in the IOR involves its projects that include ports, airstrips, and logistics capabilities with dual-use potential. These facilities could serve both civilian and military functions, raising significant implications for India's maritime domain awareness, coastal security, and regional influence.
To address the challenges posed by China's presence, India is fostering regional stability through several initiatives:
India is also increasingly recognized as a Net Security Provider in the region, offering support to smaller IOR nations through capacity-building efforts, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief.
China is actively constructing various infrastructures in the IOR, such as ports and logistics hubs, in nations like Sri Lanka (Hambantota), Djibouti, Myanmar, and others. Many of these developments are strategically positioned near vital maritime chokepoints and align with China's "String of Pearls" strategy.
India strongly opposes the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) due to its passage through Pakistan-occupied territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, which India views as a violation of its sovereignty. Numerous objections have been raised by India to China regarding this issue.
India is forging closer ties with countries such as the Maldives, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. These partnerships focus on establishing coastal radar networks, conducting hydrographic surveys, and sharing real-time maritime data. Such initiatives align with India's vision of acting as a Net Security Provider.
While China markets its initiatives under the BRI as primarily economic, many projects contain features that have potential military applications. This dual-use nature raises concerns regarding future military implications.
The report indicates that the increased military use of ports and infrastructure by China could jeopardize maritime security, threaten trade routes, and hinder freedom of navigation. This situation may lead to long-term regional instability and alter power dynamics within the Indo-Pacific.
India acknowledges that countries cooperating with China in the IOR are acting out of their national interests. It continues to engage through diplomatic channels and provide alternatives via infrastructure aid, capacity building, and regional leadership.
For further details, please refer to the separate FAQs available on the website: SAGAR to MAHASAGAR.
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