The Indian subcontinent boasts a diverse archipelago of islands scattered across its vast maritime expanse, each carrying unique geopolitical weight. Examining the geostrategic significance of Indian islands unveils a complex interplay of economic, military, and diplomatic considerations. From the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal to the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea, these territories serve as pivotal outposts in India’s strategic calculus. Positioned at key maritime crossroads, they not only safeguard the nation’s maritime interests but also project influence across vital sea lanes. The islands play a crucial role in shaping regional dynamics, fostering economic development, and fortifying national security, making their geopolitical significance integral to India’s broader strategic framework. Understanding the geopolitical context of these islands is essential for comprehending India’s maritime strategy and its evolving role in the Indo-Pacific region.
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Answer
The Indian Sub-continent is located in the IOR and its maritime security perimeter extends from Aden in the West and South China Sea and Western Pacific in the East. In the IOR, India is endowed with the Lakshadweep islands in the West and Andaman and Nicobar Islands (A&N) in the East.
- To maintain National Security, Theater Command, to provide a launchpad for blue water navy in times of conflicts – Andaman Nicobar Naval, Lakshadweep are most important. Eg- Presence of Chinese non military spy ships in Hambantota Port creating major security problems in India missile testing, India space mission etc.h
- Indian Island- lakshadweep and Andaman presence in the Indian ocean in two different directions- gives the advantage to monitor huge traffic of ships in the Indian ocean.
- To counter the String Of Pulse initiative of China, which added almost all neighbors of India and to implement India Diamond of Necklace Strategy, Indian island gives strategic importance.
- Establishment of pro- China Political government in Maldives gives a new security threat to India and Lakhswadeep will important for control and security of that area.
- Andaman & Nicobar is very important for Quadrilateral Security Dialogue and Indo Pacific Cooperation with US,Australia and Japan because of its strategic position with the vicinity of Malacca strait and Andaman Sea.
- It is important to provide Indian Commitment in Net Security Provider in the Indian Ocean region.
- These island helps to secure the Sea line of Communication (SLOC) from anti piracy activity
Strategic Importance in Trade and Transport-
- More than 80% of World sea based oil transport passes through the Indian Ocean and these gives opportunity to Indian islands to control the transport.
These islands are important for Successful and effective implementation of the Indian Ocean Rim Initiative , Security and Growth for all (SAGAR) initiative of India, Indo Pacific Economic Framework, Quad etc.
Strategic Importance in Resources:
- It gives important to the EEZ zone .Andaman and Nicobar and Laskhwadeep alone added more than 10 lakhs sq km of EEZ.
As India leading towards world 5th largest economy and voice of global south, Indian ocean region including Indo pacific will be most important area in terms of Trade, global conflicts, deciding global super power. The islands of Indian ocean including andaman & nicobar and lakshadweep will be the most exploited area in the next 2-3 decades. With the increasing effects of climate change development of these islands has to be done with maximum care.
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