Indian troops are withdrawing from the Maldives as part of President Mohamed Muizzu’s election promise known as the ‘India out’ campaign. This decision underscores a significant shift in the Maldives' foreign policy and military cooperation under the new administration.
The exact number of Indian troops stationed in the Maldives has not been publicly disclosed. Reports suggest that around 25 Indian troops deployed in the southernmost atoll of Addu have already left. The remaining personnel are expected to withdraw in batches by May 10.
The Indian troops were primarily responsible for operating India-gifted aircraft and helicopters, as part of a security cooperation agreement. Their presence aimed to enhance the Maldives' capabilities in maritime surveillance and disaster response.
The decision for withdrawal arose from President Muizzu’s consistent demands for the removal of Indian troops, emphasizing the need to preserve the Maldives’ sovereignty. This stance was central to his political campaign, leading to negotiations between the Maldives and India, which facilitated the withdrawal agreement.
In place of the departing troops, a technical team from India has arrived in the Maldives. This shift indicates a transition from military to technical collaboration. Additionally, the Maldives has signed agreements with China and Turkey to obtain military assistance and surveillance drones, indicating a diversification of its military partnerships.
Post-withdrawal, the Maldives has secured a pact with China aimed at enhancing military ties. This agreement includes provisions for non-lethal military equipment and training, which President Muizzu asserts will strengthen the Maldives’ independence and autonomy.
China has publicly endorsed the Maldives’ decision, highlighting the significance of sovereignty and equal international cooperation. The reorientation of the Maldives’ foreign and defense policies reflects the evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean region.
While the troop withdrawal indicates a shift in the Maldives' defense cooperation strategy, both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining bilateral relations. The deployment of an Indian technical team signals that cooperation in other areas, particularly technical and economic, is expected to continue.
Q1. Why are Indian troops leaving the Maldives?
Answer: Indian troops are leaving the Maldives to fulfill President Muizzu’s 'India out' campaign promise, reflecting a shift in the Maldives' foreign policy.
Q2. How many Indian troops were stationed in the Maldives?
Answer: The exact number of Indian troops has not been disclosed, but reports indicate around 25 troops have already left the Maldives.
Q3. What was the primary role of Indian troops in the Maldives?
Answer: Indian troops operated India-gifted aircraft and helicopters, enhancing the Maldives' maritime surveillance and disaster response capabilities.
Q4. What agreements did the Maldives sign after the troop withdrawal?
Answer: The Maldives signed agreements with China for military assistance and with Turkey for surveillance drones, indicating a shift in military partnerships.
Q5. How will the troop withdrawal affect India-Maldives relations?
Answer: Despite the troop withdrawal, both nations are committed to maintaining relations, with continued cooperation expected in technical and economic areas.
Question 1: What campaign did President Muizzu run on regarding Indian troops?
A) 'India In' Campaign
B) 'India Out' Campaign
C) 'India First' Campaign
D) 'India Together' Campaign
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What types of equipment were Indian troops operating in the Maldives?
A) Tanks and artillery
B) India-gifted aircraft and helicopters
C) Drones and missiles
D) Naval ships
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which country has the Maldives signed a military assistance agreement with post-withdrawal?
A) India
B) Turkey
C) United States
D) Japan
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is the primary reason for the withdrawal of Indian troops?
A) Financial issues
B) Preservation of Maldives' sovereignty
C) Natural disasters
D) Local protests
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: How did China respond to the Maldives’ decision to withdraw Indian troops?
A) Criticized the decision
B) Supported the decision
C) Remained neutral
D) Offered military support
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: When are the remaining Indian troops expected to withdraw?
A) By May 10
B) By June 15
C) By April 20
D) By July 30
Correct Answer: A
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