Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography.
4) Indian ocean has a great political and economic significance. Comment.(250 words)
Why this question
The question is related to GS 1 syllabus under the following heading-
Salient features of world’s physical geography.
Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent);
The question is also related to GS 3 syllabus under the following heading-
Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.
Key demand of the question.
The question wants us to bring out the economic as well as the political importance of Indian ocean in the present times.
Directive word
Comment- We have to express our understanding and knowledge on the above issue. We have to answer both the aspects of the question.- economic part, as well as the political aspects.
Structure of the answer
Introduction – Mention that Indian o Ocean covers almost 20 percent of the world’s waters and includes Andaman Sea, Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, Flores Sea, Great Australian Bight, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Java Sea, Mozambique Channel, Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Strait of Malacca, Timor Sea, and other tributary water bodies.
Body-
- Discuss the economic importance of Indian ocean. E.g Strait of Hormuz connects the oil fields of Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean and carries almost 88 per cent of the Persian Gulf oil to the world; Strait of Malacca connects the Indian Ocean with the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean, this strait serves as the shortest route between the Persian Gulf and its markets in Asia. etc. Similarly, discuss the economic role of other such areas of the Indian ocean.
- Discuss the political importance of the Indian ocean. E.g involvement of world powers in the area, presence of military bases in various islands, increasing naval presence and posturing of world powers etc.
Take the help of the article attached to the question and other references to frame your answer.
Conclusion– Bring out a fair, concise and a balanced conclusion on the overall importance of the Pacific Ocean and mention the imperative for free trade lanes and peace in the region.
