Topic: India’s relations with Maldives
Q3. Assess how India’s evolving partnership with the Maldives fits into its broader Indo-Pacific maritime strategy. Evaluate the emerging challenges to India’s influence amid shifting domestic politics in Malé. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question:
In light of the political shift in the Maldives and the growing China factor in the Indian Ocean, testing India’s Indo-Pacific strategy.Key demand of the question:
The question demands an assessment of how India’s partnership with the Maldives aligns with its broader Indo-Pacific maritime vision and an evaluation of emerging political and strategic challenges to India’s influence in Malé.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:Briefly highlight Maldives’ geostrategic location in the Indian Ocean and its importance to India’s Indo-Pacific and SAGAR vision.
Body:
- Explain how India–Maldives cooperation advances Indo-Pacific objectives such as maritime security, connectivity, and regional resilience.
- Analyse the challenges arising from domestic political shifts, “India Out” campaign, and China’s expanding footprint.
Conclusion:
Conclude with the need for calibrated engagement balancing strategic autonomy, mutual respect, and regional stability.
