External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that India needs to get ready for significant changes in the Indian Ocean, particularly due to concerns about China’s increasing activities in the region. He made these comments while participating in an interactive session after delivering the Jasjit Singh memorial lecture on “India’s grand strategy in an uncertain multipolar world.”
Jaishankar emphasized that India is seeing new maritime competition in the Indian Ocean, which had not been present before. He pointed out that there is no use in complaining about this situation; instead, India must be prepared to face and compete with these changes. He noted that China has expanded its naval presence and surveillance activities in the Indian Ocean, including sending vessels to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. These activities are seen as part of China’s broader strategy and could be related to gathering data for submarine warfare.
Jaishankar also explained India’s “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) maritime initiative, which aims to promote regional security and development. He highlighted the success of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, which focuses on strengthening economic ties with neighboring countries. He gave the example of India’s support for Sri Lanka during its recent economic crisis.
Jaishankar acknowledged that competition is a reality in India’s neighborhood, and the country must work hard to compete effectively. He praised India’s ability to stand up for its interests and outperform other nations in the region. Despite challenges and political ups and downs with neighboring countries, Jaishankar noted that India has the resources, capabilities, and strategic position to manage these issues effectively.