India’s maritime security dilemma and geopolitical competition in Indo-Pacific

ABSTRACT

Maritime security is a major concern in the contemporary global environment. Rapid technological progress has facilitated the exploration and utilisation of oceanic resources in remote offshore regions. Traditionally, the maritime domain has faced several threats, such as sea piracy, armed robberies, and illegal drugs. In the twenty-first century, with the rise of China as an important maritime power, geo-strategic competition has increased among great powers. India has long enjoyed a sphere of influence in the Indian Ocean Region has been challenged. The rise of China poses a credible security threat to India in the Indo-Pacific region. This article explores the dynamic backdrop of global, regional, and domestic politics and their effects on Indian foreign policy through the ocean. This article contends that the marine security initiatives and actions observed over the last decade necessitate more comprehensive consideration. In global maritime politics, India and the USA look to each other as partners to counterbalance China. Nevertheless, India is not ready for any military alliance against China based on Indian national interests. Therefore, this paper examines how India has pursued its ‘strategic autonomy’ in the region during the power rivalry between China and the US.

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Priyanka Mallick

Priyanka Mallick holds PhD from the School of International Studies, JNU, New Delhi. She has seven years of work experience. She works as an assistant professor at Mount Carmel College in Bangalore.