India–Maldives Relations
Table of Contents
Strategic Importance of India– Maldives
▪ Its potential to allow a third nation’s naval presence in the area
▪ Maldives is situated at the hub of commercial sea-lane
▪ India’s ambition to be ‘Net-security provider’ in IOR
▪ China’s expanding footprint in the Maldives
Overview of India-Maldives relations
▪ ‘India-First Policy’ of the Maldives
▪ India’s High Impact Community Development Scheme (HICDP).
▫ Projects under it are driven by needs of communities on the islands.
▫ Establishing the Addu Tourism zone in five islands of Addu atoll.
▫ A bottled water plant in Hoarafush
▪ Economic relations– bilateral trade of $288.99 Mn (2018) heavily in favour of
India.
▪ Defence Cooperation- Training to Maldivian National Defence Force
▪ Development Assistance
▫ Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital
▫ High Impact Community Development Projects
▪ People to people relations
▫ About 25% of Doctors and Teachers in Maldives are Indian nationals.
▪ India Cultural Center (ICC)-conducts courses in yoga, classical music and
dance
Challenges in India-Maldives Relations
▪ Chinese debt-trap diplomacy-
▫ Maldives foreign debt— 40% of the country’s GDP
▪ Political instability in Maldives
▪ Increasing radicalisation —over 200 Maldivians reportedly joined the Islamic
State
Introduction
The India–Maldives relationship has always been a unique one — a blend of geography, history, security, and diplomacy. While the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean connect us, the tides of regional politics often test this friendship.
But how did India become Maldives’ “first responder”? And why is the world suddenly watching this small island nation?
Let’s decode it — the UPSC way.
Historical Background
- Ancient Linkages: Cultural, linguistic, and trade connections between Maldivian atolls and Indian coastal regions date back centuries.
- Post-Independence (1965): India was among the first to recognize Maldives after its independence from British rule.
- 1988 Operation Cactus: A turning point — India sent forces within hours to foil a coup attempt, earning trust and strategic goodwill.
Key Pillars of India–Maldives Relations
| Area | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Strategic Security | Joint naval exercises (e.g., Dosti, Ekatha), defence cooperation, maritime patrols |
| Economic Support | Currency swap agreements, infrastructure aid (ports, roads, health sector), tourism |
| Disaster Relief | Quick Indian assistance post-tsunami (2004) and water crisis (2014) |
| People-to-People | Indian doctors, teachers, and businesses contribute significantly to Maldivian society |
Geostrategic Importance
- Located on key shipping lanes of the Indian Ocean (90% of India’s trade by volume).
- Acts as a ‘maritime outpost’ near India’s southern tip.
- Essential to India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’ policy.
Recent Tensions (2023–24)
- “India Out” Campaign: Backed by some political groups in Maldives alleging India’s military presence infringes on sovereignty.
- New Government Shift (2023): President Mohamed Muizzu leans towards China; demands withdrawal of Indian military personnel.
- Diplomatic Balancing: India sent a team to manage the transition while continuing civil aid work.
️ Current Developments
- Indian military personnel being replaced by technical civilian teams for aircraft and radar support.
- Continued cooperation on infrastructure (Greater Malé Connectivity Project by Indian grants & loans).
- Quiet diplomacy continues — India avoids overreaction.
Key Facts for UPSC
- Maldives Capital: Malé
- Strategic Bases: India’s coastal radar systems link with Maldives’ network
- Operation Cactus (1988): UPSC favorite!
- Diplomatic Doctrine: SAGAR, Neighbourhood First
Prelims Snippet
Q: Operation Cactus is related to:
A) Indo–China War
B) India–Sri Lanka Accord
C) India’s intervention in Maldives’ coup
D) Indian Ocean tsunami rescue
Ans: C
Conclusion
India and Maldives are more than neighbours — they are partners in security and stability. While political winds may shift, the foundation of trust and mutual support runs deep.
Diplomacy in the Indian Ocean isn’t just about borders — it’s about waves of influence.
India–Maldives
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India–Maldives
