Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Opening sentence: Start by introducing India’s geographical significance and its vast coastline (7,500+ km). Fact: India’s coastline stretches over ...
Model Answer Introduction The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, is a significant development project that raises substantial security concerns for India due to its strategic implications and potential military applications. CPEC Activities Posing SecuRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, is a significant development project that raises substantial security concerns for India due to its strategic implications and potential military applications.
CPEC Activities Posing Security Challenges for India
Infringement of Territorial Claims
The construction of highways and railways in the disputed Gilgit-Baltistan region directly challenges India’s sovereignty claims over the territory. This development undermines India’s position on the Kashmir issue and raises tensions in the region.
Potential Strategic Encirclement
The development of Gwadar Port near the strategic Strait of Hormuz has escalated fears of military encirclement. This port’s potential military use could threaten India’s maritime interests in the Arabian Sea.
Empowering Adversary’s Economy
CPEC’s energy projects, such as the Sahiwal Coal Power Project and Karot Hydropower Station, could enhance Pakistan’s military capabilities by boosting its economy. A stronger economy translates to improved defense spending, thereby posing a greater threat to India.
Economic Empowerment of Pakistan
CPEC includes significant infrastructure projects, like the $2.5 billion Lahore-Karachi Motorway and the $2.1 billion Karot Hydropower Station, which could uplift Pakistan’s economy. This economic boost may indirectly fortify Pakistan’s military capacity and upset regional power dynamics, particularly concerning India.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Industrial Capacity
The establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), such as the Rashakai Economic Zone, enhances Pakistan’s industrial potential, further complicating India’s security calculus.
Enhancing Chinese Influence
Projects like the Fiber Optic Project establish direct communication links between China and Pakistan, increasing Chinese influence in the region. This development raises concerns about the strategic implications for India.
Potential Military Route
The upgrade of the Karakoram Highway, which connects China and Pakistan, could serve military purposes, allowing for rapid troop movement in case of conflict.
Critical Examination
While the security concerns surrounding CPEC are legitimate, it is essential to recognize that economic corridors can also promote regional integration and development. The strategic implications largely depend on how China and Pakistan utilize the infrastructure created under the project.
Conclusion
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor poses considerable security challenges for India, necessitating proactive diplomacy and strategic planning. India must navigate the geopolitical shifts triggered by such initiatives while safeguarding its security interests and regional stability.
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Model Answer Introduction India, with a coastline exceeding 7,500 km and its pivotal location in the Indian Ocean, faces numerous maritime security challenges. These challenges are growing in importance due to the global relevance of maritime trade, energy transport, and regional geopolitics. MaritiRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India, with a coastline exceeding 7,500 km and its pivotal location in the Indian Ocean, faces numerous maritime security challenges. These challenges are growing in importance due to the global relevance of maritime trade, energy transport, and regional geopolitics.
Maritime Security Challenges in India:
Terrorism and Piracy
India’s porous maritime borders are susceptible to terrorist infiltration, exemplified by the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, where terrorists exploited vulnerabilities along the Arabian Sea. Piracy originating from the Gulf of Aden also threatens shipping routes near India’s western coast.
Illegal Trafficking
Smuggling of contraband, arms, and human trafficking via maritime routes is a persistent problem. Areas like the Sundarbans Delta and Palk Strait between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka are hotspots for such illicit activities.
Border Disputes
India’s maritime boundaries are contested in certain regions, such as the Sir Creek dispute with Pakistan and the Katchatheevu Island dispute with Sri Lanka, which exacerbate geopolitical tensions.
Natural Disasters
Cyclones and tsunamis pose significant risks to India’s coastline, as demonstrated by Cyclone Amphan (2020) and the 2004 Tsunami, which affected eastern states and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Initiatives to Improve Maritime Security
Organizational
India has developed a robust three-tier security system, consisting of the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Police. The Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) was also established to enhance real-time information sharing.
Technical
Advanced satellite surveillance systems such as ISRO’s Rukmini and GSAT-7A, along with radar and Automated Identification Systems (AIS), have been deployed to monitor coastal activities effectively.
Procedural
Coastal security exercises are regularly conducted to ensure inter-agency coordination. Additionally, biometric ID cards for fishermen are issued to prevent illegal activities and infiltration.
Conclusion
India’s maritime security challenges are diverse and complex, necessitating comprehensive responses. Through organizational, technical, and procedural innovations, India has strengthened its maritime security framework, but continuous efforts are required to keep pace with evolving threats.
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