Model Answer Introduction The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2012 decision to shift the high-risk piracy area’s longitudinal marking from 65° East to 78° East in the Arabian Sea has significant implications for India’s maritime security. Impact on India’s Maritime Security Increased SurRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2012 decision to shift the high-risk piracy area’s longitudinal marking from 65° East to 78° East in the Arabian Sea has significant implications for India’s maritime security.
Impact on India’s Maritime Security
Increased Surveillance Burden
The shift expanded the high-risk area closer to India’s western coast, thereby increasing India’s responsibility for surveillance and anti-piracy operations. This has led to heightened patrolling by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard to monitor and protect vessels operating in these waters.
Threat to Commercial Interests
The redefinition places Indian commercial vessels within the high-risk zone, which raises the risks for India’s shipping industry. This situation could potentially lead to increased insurance premiums for these vessels, affecting the overall cost of maritime trade.
Impact on Fishing Activities
The new high-risk area includes parts of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which could significantly impact the operations of Indian fishing vessels. Safety concerns may deter fishermen from operating in these waters, affecting their livelihoods and food security.
Potential for Increased Cooperation
On a positive note, the shift also presents an opportunity for enhanced international cooperation in tackling maritime piracy. India has already engaged in collaborative efforts with neighboring countries like the Maldives and Seychelles to strengthen maritime security in the region.
Conclusion
The IMO’s decision to shift the piracy high-risk area’s longitudinal marking closer to India significantly increases India’s maritime security responsibilities and commercial vulnerabilities. However, it also provides an impetus for stronger international cooperation in securing the Arabian Sea against piracy.
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India has a long coastline of 7516 km, which makes the significance of coastal security paramount. India's development is closely linked to its maritime and therefore it is critical to ensure the security of coastal areas. India's coastal architecture has taken a more robust shape after the 26/11 atRead more
India has a long coastline of 7516 km, which makes the significance of coastal security paramount. India’s development is closely linked to its maritime and therefore it is critical to ensure the security of coastal areas. India’s coastal architecture has taken a more robust shape after the 26/11 attack and includes the Indian Coast Guard, Coastal Surveillance Network, Marine Police, and National Committee for Strengthening Maritime and Coastal Security, etc. Coastal security is an indispensable part of India’s security architecture due to the following reasons:
India could safeguard its internal and external interests only if it enhances its capability by strengthening its coastal as well as maritime security. However, there remain certain loopholes in India’s present coastal security architecture:
However, to address these gaps, the government has undertaken a few steps. In 2022, the country’s first National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC) was appointed. It will ensure cooperation and harmonized functioning between the various agencies and stakeholders tasked to ensure the protection of India’s vast coastline.
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