During Exercise MILAN, Defence Minister of India has called upon the international community to effectively tackle evolving complex & interconnected challenges at sea.
Evolving Challenges in Maritime Security
- Geopolitical Tensions and Territorial Disputes: E.g., contests for ownership of straits/ channels, increasing international attention to underwater resources like rare-earth minerals etc.
- Piracy, Terrorism and Smuggling: In hotspots like the Gulf of Aden and the Malacca Strait.
- Environmental Challenges: Rising sea level, severe cyclones etc.
- Cyber Vulnerabilities: Threat to undersea optical cable network; Cyberattacks to disrupt port facilities, navigation networks, critical supply chains etc.
Significance of Maritime Security for India
- India’s vast coastline: Spanning over 11000 km.
- Trade and Economic Lifelines: Oceanic routes handle over 95% of India’s total trade volume.
- Valuable Marine Resources: Massive Exclusive Economic Zone (~ 2 million square km) is source of valuable hydrocarbons and rare earth minerals.
- Regional Stability and Diplomacy: India’s image as a trusted "Vishwa-Mitra" (global friend) and net security provider in India Ocean Region.
India’s Initiative to address evolving Challenges
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