India has came up with several strategic moves to counter the Chinese influence in Indian Ocean region. Eg India’s Necklace of Diamond strategy to counter Chinese String of pearls in the Indian Ocean region.

Certain initiatives like SAGAR(Security and Growth for All in the Region) and QUAD grouping to challenge Chinese influence has proved to have significant positive impact in favour of India.

SAGAR INITIATIVE
Launched in 2015, the SAGAR initiative aims to enhance maritime security, foster sustainable economic growth, and build cooperative relationships with India’s maritime neighbors. Key components of the SAGAR initiative include:

1. Maritime Security: Strengthening India’s naval capabilities and ensuring a robust maritime presence to deter threats and protect maritime routes.
2. Capacity Building and Training: Assisting neighboring countries in enhancing their maritime capabilities through training, joint exercises, and providing technical support.
3. Economic and Infrastructure Development: Promoting sustainable development in the IOR by investing in infrastructure projects, port development, and connectivity initiatives.
4. Disaster Response and Humanitarian Assistance: Enhancing regional cooperation in disaster management and providing timely assistance during natural calamities.

QUAD GROUPING
The Quad, comprising India, the United States, Japan, and Australia, is a strategic forum aimed at ensuring a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The Quad focuses on various areas such as:

1. Maritime Security: Conducting joint naval exercises, enhancing interoperability, and sharing intelligence to counter maritime threats and ensure freedom of navigation.
2. Economic Cooperation: Promoting trade and investment, infrastructure development, and ensuring supply chain resilience in the region.
3. Technology and Innovation: Collaborating on emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and setting standards for critical technologies.
4. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Coordinating efforts in disaster response and enhancing regional preparedness for natural disasters.

Impact on India’s Relations with Maritime Neighbours :-
India’s efforts through the SAGAR initiative and the Quad have significantly impacted its relations with its maritime neighbors:

1. Strengthened Bilateral Ties: India’s proactive engagement through SAGAR has strengthened bilateral relations with countries like Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles. India has provided maritime patrol vessels, radar systems, and training to these nations, enhancing their maritime security capabilities.

2. Regional Leadership: India’s leadership in regional forums and its focus on capacity building have positioned it as a key player in the IOR, countering Chinese influence and fostering a sense of regional cooperation.

3. Enhanced Multilateral Cooperation: Participation in the Quad has facilitated greater multilateral cooperation, enabling India to work closely with major powers like the US, Japan, and Australia. This collaboration has enhanced India’s strategic reach and its ability to counterbalance Chinese activities in the region.

4. Economic and Developmental Assistance: India’s investment in regional infrastructure and connectivity projects has been well-received by its neighbors, contributing to their economic development and reducing dependence on Chinese investments.

CONCLUSION
India’s efforts through SAGAR and the Quad have bolstered its strategic position in the IOR, fostered stronger regional ties, and provided a counterbalance to China’s growing influence. These initiatives have reinforced India’s commitment to a stable, secure, and prosperous maritime environment in the region.