In international trade, the Indian Ocean is the lifeline which handles a significant portion of commerce and energy supplies across the world. Emerging phenomenon of multi-polarity denotes the active involvement of multiple players which may alter the discourse of the region and complicate the web of military alliances between nations. For India, asserting influence and ensuring security of this maritime expanse is not merely a matter of national interest but also a strategic imperative. Historically, India’s maritime prowess was evident in its thriving trade networks, which connected the subcontinent to regions across Asia, Africa and beyond. In contemporary times, India has recognized the importance of robust naval presence, reflecting a significant move in state security policies.
Multiple transformations can be seen in India’s national security strategy with its growing emphasis on attaining sea power. India’s ambitions to emerge as a regional hegemonic power also hinges on its maritime capabilities. India’s maritime strategy is underpinned by the principle of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), which seeks to foster regional cooperation and mutual development. This strategy emphasizes enhancing surveillance and monitoring capabilities to address emerging threats and ensuring effective sea control to safeguard Indian maritime interests, including EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone). Additionally, India’s focus on projecting power extends to initiatives such as Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, reflecting commitment to regional stability and influence. Moreover, active engagement in QUAD further amplifies its ambitions and has the potential to reshape security dynamics of the region. Alongside this, India prioritizes cooperation by fostering partnerships with regional navies and organizations to advance shared interests. Formation of alliances and conducting extensive naval drills such as MALABAR exercise highlights the largest naval modernized effort.
In many aspects, sea power is an integral element to safeguard India’s interests, their reliance on energy imports particularly crude oil further accentuates the importance of secure sea lanes. Disruption to these routes whether from piracy, geopolitical tensions or blockades could cripple the Indian economy. Hence, ensuring the safety of sea lines of communication (SLOCs) is paramount. India is advancing its conventional and nuclear naval capabilities that threaten the region. US-China contestation and increasing importance of the region are now resulting in rethinking of calculus of regional players. Increasing naval developments have also been altering the power dynamics of IOR in its favor resulting in military tensions with other states, especially Pakistan. Also it could pose a challenge to Pakistan’s strategic interests at Gwadar port and CPEC.
India’s growing concerns have significant implications for Pakistan, which has long been concerned about India’s military modernization and expansion. As such, a realist posture of power increasing will put increase pressure on Pakistan’s navy, which are already facing significant resource constraints. India’s ability to control and protect its maritime interests could potentially threaten Pakistan’s maritime trade, which is crucial to its economy. Not only this, but it will have implications for Indo-Pacific region in a broader sense. Such as a shift in regional balance of power, which will eventually challenge the dominance of other regional powers, like China. India’s cooperation with navies, like United States, Japan and Australia, will provide the state with prospects to flourish.
However, challenges persist. Despite significant modernization efforts, India’s Navy budget allocations often fall short of its requirements. Undoubtedly, it is a critical component of its strategy which continues to modernize and expand its naval capabilities. It requires much holistic approach to look upon the matter. Oceans are becoming more critical to getting power and in becoming a global or regional hegemon. Through the lens of realist approach, maritime power rivalry can be analyzed thoroughly. India has been enjoying the support for its blue economy ambitions, and for that they have signed numerous cooperation agreements. For the security of Pakistan, it will have far reaching implications. To seek security Pakistan is reaching out to different states to develop mutual defence and economic pacts. Non-traditional threats have also played their utmost role in exacerbating the situation. Risk reduction measure should be implemented to limit the possibilities of escalation and unintended consequences.
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