About Indian Ocean 

• It is the third-largest ocean in the world. 
• It is surrounded mainly by developing countries and island states, including Madagascar, the fourth-largest island globally. 
• It is bordered by: Asia to the north, Africa to the west, Australia to the east 
• and Antarctica to the south. 
• Major water bodies within the Indian Ocean: Red Sea (between the Arabian Peninsula and Africa), Arabian Sea (west of India) and Bay of Bengal (east of India, also the largest bay). 

 Historical Importance 

• It derives its name from India’s historical influence in the region. 
• It was a vital trade route for merchants like the Manigramam Chettis and Nanadesis and dynasties such as the Pallavas, Cholas, and Andhras. 
• Ancient texts like Kautilya’s Arthashastra highlighted maritime importance. 
• Fa-Hien (415 CE) recorded India’s strong trade and religious influence. 
• While India dominated maritime trade in the first millennium, European colonial powers later controlled the ocean. 

Significance of the Indian Ocean

• Cultural & Regional Connect 
  • Unlike the Indo-Pacific, a geopolitical construct of global power competition, the Indian Ocean naturally connects 26 countries through history and culture. 
  • It is a lifeline for landlocked nations like Nepal and Bhutan. 
• Economic Importance 
  • Acts as a key global trade route, linking the Persian Gulf to the Strait of Malacca. 
  • Handles 70% of global container traffic. 
  • Facilitates 80% of India’s external trade and 90% of its energy imports. 
• Strategic Importance 
  • The region is witnessing growing military and commercial activities. 
  • US & UK (Diego Garcia) and France (Reunion Island) have a presence. 
  • China is expanding its influence through investments. 

 India’s Maritime Initiatives & Challenges 

• Key Steps Taken 
  • PM Modi aims to establish India as a blue-water power and voice of the Global South. 
  • Launched SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) in 2015 to strengthen maritime influence. 
•  Challenges 
  • Security threats: Piracy, terrorism, illegal fishing, human trafficking. 
  • Environmental issues: Climate change, rising sea levels, disaster management. 
  • Strategic concerns: China's growing presence, Huawei’s role in undersea communication networks.