Mauritius was and is the “Star and Key of the Indian Ocean”. Examine the statement in the light of changing geopolitics of the Indian ocean.

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

4. Mauritius was and is the “Star and Key of the Indian Ocean”. Examine the statement in the light of changing geopolitics of the Indian ocean.(250 words)

Indian Express

Why this question:

The article explains that As India prepares to host the prime minister of Mauritius, PravindJugnauth, who returned to power in the recent general elections, Delhi needs to change the lens through which it sees the small island republic in the western Indian Ocean.

Key demand of the question:

Discuss the importance of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean geopolitics.

Directive:

Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must look into the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Discuss briefly the key aspects of Mauritius as a country of the Indian ocean.

Body:

Explain the history of Mauritius and the present day value.

Discuss why Mauritius should and can be made the pivot of Delhi’s island policy.

Explain the possible aspects that make the country unique and important.

Take hints from the article and explain the significance of building ties with Mauritius.

Conclusion:

Conclude what should be the approach of India in dealing with Mauritus.