There is little doubt about the Chinese intentions vis-à-vis India. By virtue of its economic power and military might, it has been able to play a dominant role in the Indian Ocean region. China has embarked upon the policy of building a string of pearls around India by providing economic and military aid to the countries of the region especially those in close proximity to the Indian shores.
Because of the uneasy past and the territorial disputes between India and China, the Chinese actions in the Indian Ocean region have been viewed with growing suspicion by India.
It is obvious that the 21st century would be characterised by ever-rising competition for natural resources and world influence between the ‘Asian Elephant’ and the ‘Asian Dragon’. Although India and China do not share a maritime boundary, the recent Chinese aggressive postures in the South China Sea coupled with its foray into the Indian Ocean region by developing port facilities in the Indian Ocean region countries have seriously raised Indian concerns and security stakes in the area. The Chinese submarines have been visiting the ports of India’s neighbouring countries with increasing frequency giving jitters to the Indian strategic establishments. There is little doubt that one of the most characteristic features of international relations in the Indian Ocean region in the 21st century would be the competing claims for dominance between the India and China.
This paper would take a look at the Chinese naval policy in the Indian Ocean region and how it has an impact on Indian Maritime concerns. It would also discuss how India can successfully challenge the Chinese hegemonic designs in the region. |
