The recent India-Maldives controversy stemmed from offensive comments made by three Maldivian ministers on social media about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Lakshadweep islands in early January 2024. 

The Incident

• Maldivian Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment Mariyam Shiuna posted a mocking and disrespectful remark about PM Modi on social media. Two other ministers, Malsha Shareef and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid, also made disparaging comments.
• India summoned the Maldivian envoy and expressed strong disapproval of the derogatory remarks.
• The Maldivian government suspended the three ministers and distanced itself from their statements. President Mohamed Muizzu also affirmed the importance of close ties with India.
• The episode coincides with Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's maiden visit to China, raising speculation about China's possible role in influencing the ministers' remarks.

3. India-Maldives

India-Maldives relations have historically been close, marked by vibrant cultural ties, strong economic partnerships, and strategic cooperation. However, the relationship has encountered some challenges in recent years, highlighting the need for renewed focus and strategic adjustments.

Historical Ties

• Both nations share Buddhist and Hindu influences, with Maldivians speaking Dhivehi, which belongs to the Indo-Aryan language family.
• India has been a significant trading partner for Maldives, exporting food, and manufactured goods, and providing tourism services.
• India has played a crucial role in ensuring the Maldives' security, assisting in the 1988 coup attempt, the 2004 tsunami, and the 2014 water crisis.

Strategic Interests

• The Maldives occupies a strategic position in the Indian Ocean, making it crucial for India's maritime security interests.
• China's increasing economic and military presence in the region presents both challenges and opportunities for India-Maldives cooperation.
• Both countries share concerns about terrorism and have collaborated in intelligence sharing and capacity building.

Contemporary Challenges

• Despite close ties, the significant economic disparity between India and the Maldives can lead to imbalances and resentment.
• The Maldives has experienced political turmoil in recent years, which can impact relations with India.
• Both countries face challenges related to climate change and rising sea levels, requiring collaborative solutions.

• The recent diplomatic spat with the Maldives, triggered by offensive comments directed at Prime Minister Modi, might appear as a fleeting "storm in a teacup." However, a closer look reveals several critical dimensions with far-reaching implications for India's maritime security landscape, offering valuable lessons for the future.
• The Maldives archipelago stretches across the southern Indian Ocean, forming a vital piece of India's maritime security puzzle. Its 27 coral atolls dispersed over 900 km encompass an exclusive economic zone of nearly a million square kilometres. Despite the Indian Navy's acknowledgement of this strategic importance, India's overall security approach suffers from a persistent "continental fixation."
• The lack of a comprehensive national security strategy translates into sporadic and uncoordinated maritime initiatives. This shortcoming hinders India's ability to effectively maintain control over strategically crucial areas like the Maldives.
• As early as 1945, K.M. Panikkar, revered as India's "oracle of maritime wisdom," warned against the perils of a solely land-based defence strategy. He presciently declared that neglect of Indian interests in the Indian Ocean would render freedom inconsequential and accurately predicted China's burgeoning naval ambitions. Panikkar's foresight highlights the urgent need for India to prioritize its maritime security interests.
• The British presence on Gan Island, a Maldivian island, until 1976 underscores the strategic significance of the region. Additionally, China's expanding naval power and its proximity to the Indian Ocean raise concerns about potential strategic rivalries.

The recent diplomatic spat with the Maldives serves as a stark reminder of the need for India to re-evaluate its approach to the island nation and, perhaps, other neighbouring countries. While external factors like China's influence and Pakistan's religious incitement undoubtedly play a role, it's crucial to acknowledge and address any shortcomings within India's own diplomatic strategies.

Missed Warning Signs: The relationship with the Maldives started fraying as early as 2011, with the cancellation of the Male airport contract awarded to GMR. This should have triggered alarm bells within the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Did India receive any early warnings of this shift in sentiment from its representatives in Male? If so, were proactive measures taken to address the concerns and mend ties?

Beyond Big Brother: Maldives, with its small population and unique identity, is naturally sensitive to any perceived "big-brotherly" attitude. Anecdotal evidence suggests that some Indian diplomats' condescending demeanours, overemphasis on cultural dominance, and projection of a "viceroy" image can foster resentment. This, coupled with India's own internal struggles and occasional instances of unchecked communal tensions, paints an unappealing picture for neighbours.

Introspection and Recalibration: Addressing these concerns requires introspection and recalibration within India's diplomatic approach. Building stronger ties with the Maldives, and other neighbours, demands:

• Recognizing the sensitivities of smaller nations and engaging them with empathy and respect is crucial. This involves actively listening to their concerns, addressing them sincerely, and avoiding patronizing attitudes.
• Appreciation for the Maldives' unique cultural identity and traditions, along with fostering mutual understanding through cultural exchange programs and collaborative initiatives, can strengthen the bond between the two countries.
• Building strong economic partnerships, promoting mutually beneficial trade and development projects, and ensuring fair treatment of Maldivian workers in India can contribute to a more stable and prosperous relationship.
• Addressing domestic issues like communal tensions and hate speech, and upholding democratic principles, will project a more positive image of India as a reliable and trustworthy partner.

The "Security and Growth for All in the Region" (SAGAR) initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, is India's vision for maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. It aims to create a secure, stable, and prosperous environment for all nations through collaboration in various areas.

Key objectives of SAGAR

•  Promoting cooperation to combat piracy, terrorism, and other maritime threats; enhancing capacity building in coastal countries.
•  Encouraging trade and investment; developing port infrastructure and connectivity; promoting sustainable resource management.
• Providing training and expertise to partner nations in areas like maritime safety, search and rescue, and pollution control.
•  Assisting with preparedness, response, and recovery efforts during natural disasters in the region.
• Working together to conserve marine ecosystems and address pollution challenges.

Significance of SAGAR:

• SAGAR positions India as a leading maritime power in the Indian Ocean, fostering its strategic partnerships and influence.
•  In the face of China's growing presence in the region, SAGAR offers a cooperative alternative based on shared values and mutual benefit.
• The initiative's focus on development and capacity building caters to the needs of smaller island nations, strengthening regional stability.
• SAGAR encourages collaboration between countries on shared challenges, fostering trust and mutual understanding.

Challenges and Future Development

• While the vision is clear, a comprehensive document outlining specific action plans and operational strategies is needed.
• Implementing SAGAR initiatives effectively requires adequate resources both financially and in terms of personnel and expertise.
• Gaining the trust and active participation of all countries in the region is crucial for SAGAR's success.

The recent diplomatic discord with the Maldives highlights the need for India to shift its strategic focus in the Indo-Pacific beyond land borders and engage in larger geopolitical competition. Recognizing the crucial role of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the distinct advantages of proximity, India must navigate the complex interplay between its own interests and the growing influence of China.

Geographic Advantage: Compared to China, India enjoys a clear geographic advantage in the IOR. With Male, the Maldivian capital, just 700 km from Kochi, India, compared to 6,000 km from the nearest Chinese port, India can respond to crises and offer assistance much faster. This was evident during the 1988 coup attempt, the 2004 tsunami, and the 2014 water crisis, where the Indian Navy swiftly provided crucial aid. This demonstrates the inherent value of having a reliable and responsive neighbour.

The Imperative of Securing Sea Lanes: As the world's largest trading nation, China's economic and industrial prosperity hinges on uninterrupted maritime trade. Its sea lanes in the IOR, therefore, become a critical "jugular vein" requiring protection. This has led China to develop strategic footholds like Hambantota in Sri Lanka and Gwadar in Pakistan, and even lease a military base in Djibouti. Securing allies like the Maldives becomes strategically vital for China to counterbalance India's geographic advantage.

Checkmating China: The Maldives presents a crucial strategic puzzle in this context. While India enjoys the inherent benefits of proximity and historical goodwill, China's economic clout and strategic ambitions pose a significant challenge. India must navigate this complex landscape by:

• Continuing to provide humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and economic partnerships can solidify India's image as a trustworthy and beneficial partner.
• Strengthening cultural ties and fostering a deeper understanding of each other's perspectives can build trust and goodwill.
• Upholding democratic values and addressing issues like communal tensions can project a more positive image of India on the international stage.
• Collaborating with other IOR countries on regional issues like maritime security and environmental protection can showcase India's commitment to shared prosperity and cooperation.

• The untapped potential of maritime diplomacy in strengthening India's relationships with its maritime neighbours. While conventional diplomacy remains essential, embracing maritime diplomacy as a vital tool can offer significant benefits.
• India's Maritime Doctrine clearly outlines the "diplomatic role" as a crucial function of the Indian Navy. This role aims to "favourably shape the maritime environment" and support national interests in line with foreign policy and security goals.
• For years, India's response to requests for maritime assistance from neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Myanmar often fell short due to bureaucratic hurdles and funding limitations. This missed opportunities to build goodwill and foster stronger ties.
• In 2005-06, recognizing this gap, the Indian Navy took a proactive step by establishing a dedicated organization led by a two-star admiral to oversee foreign cooperation. This unit facilitated the transfer of patrol boats, aircraft, and helicopters from the Navy's own inventory to partner nations. This initiative exemplified the potential of maritime diplomacy in action.

The positive outcomes of this maritime cooperation are evident in India's strengthened relationships with Sri Lanka, Maldives, Myanmar, and other coastal neighbours. This successful model paves the way for further expansion:

•  Providing training, joint exercises, and equipment support to partner nations can build maritime security capabilities and foster trust.
• Rapidly deploying naval resources during natural disasters or emergencies showcases India's commitment to regional stability and builds goodwill.
• Collaborating on maritime infrastructure development, resource exploration, and sustainable fishing practices can create shared prosperity.

By prioritizing maritime diplomacy as a vital tool alongside conventional diplomacy, India can:

• A collaborative maritime environment fosters trust and cooperation, mitigating potential conflicts and ensuring safer seas for all.
• Proactive maritime engagement can strengthen India's position in the Indian Ocean and counterbalance China's strategic manoeuvres.
• By addressing their needs and demonstrating genuine commitment, India can cultivate lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with its maritime neighbours.