Maldives; Security challenge for India in Indian Ocean
(MALDIVIAN PRESIDENT ATTENDS CHINESE STATE BANQUET AMID ROW WITH INDIA)
The security dynamics in the Indian Ocean, particularly the Maldives, present a significant concern for India. Historically, British influence dominated Indian Ocean policing until India assumed this role in the 20th century. Aden, strategically positioned between the Red Sea and the Straits of Malacca, served as a crucial British-controlled port. The renowned Ambani family began amassing wealth from there, later moved to India. The opening of the Suez Canal in the 19th century further heightened the importance of Aden.
The Maldives, a tiny island group, holds immense strategic value, positioned equidistant between the Asian and African landmasses. Apart from its picturesque beaches and enticing south of the equator weather, the Maldives boasts the potential to become a transshipment port for east-west sea traffic. However, its limited population, just half a million people, hinders further development beyond tourism. Despite its potential as a military and naval base, similar to American Diego Garcia, the absence of a visible threat hasn't deterred expansion-minded Chinese interests eyeing the Maldives.
Primarily consisting of people of Indo-Aryan descent from Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, the Maldives also has an Arab minority. Islam's historical influence shapes its politics, a facet subdued during British protection but resurged post-independence. The thwarting of a Tamil-led takeover in 1988 by swift Indian intervention set the stage for subsequent democratic developments, fostering Islamic political influence.
Economically, the Maldives sustains a $900 million economy, heavily reliant on tourism and export fishing. The nation is now grappling with aggressive Chinese influence, enticing smaller nations with loans, resulting in a debt trap. India contributes significantly to the Maldivian economy, providing 60% of tourism revenue.
Over the last decade, China's strategic inroads in the Indian Ocean have intensified, alarming India. Sri Lanka's loss of the Hambantota port exemplifies the debt trap strategy. Maldives, strategically positioned on the route to Singapore, has become a target for Chinese expansion.
Despite historical cooperation between India and the Maldives, recent political developments have strained relations. President Mohammad Muizzu's anti-India campaign and his pursuit to distance the nation from India have escalated tensions. India, a significant contributor to the Maldives' GDP, has threatened to withdraw aid and tourism business, a move vehemently opposed by the new Maldivian leadership.
India's strategic concerns about Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean underline the complex dynamics at play in the region. The evolving situation in the Maldives poses challenges to India's security interests, and diplomatic efforts are crucial to navigating these complexities. It is unlikely that India will let go its influence over underpopulated islands of Maldives. Certainly, it will make sure that China does not take over becoming a threat to India.
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