Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction (50-75 words)
- Briefly introduce the IMO’s decision to move the high-risk piracy area from 65° East to 78° East.
- Highlight the importance of this change in relation to India’s maritime security.
Relevant Facts:
- The shift occurred in 2012, as reported by the International Maritime Organization.
2. Impact on India’s Maritime Security (150-200 words)
- Increased Surveillance Burden:
- Explain how the shift increases India’s responsibility for surveillance and anti-piracy operations.
Relevant Facts:
- The Indian Navy has intensified patrolling in the Arabian Sea due to this change.
- Threat to Commercial Interests:
- Discuss the implications for Indian commercial vessels now operating within the high-risk zone.
Relevant Facts:
- Increased risks could lead to higher insurance premiums for shipping companies.
- Impact on Fishing Activities:
- Elaborate on how the new high-risk area affects Indian fishing vessels operating in parts of the EEZ.
Relevant Facts:
- Safety concerns may deter fishermen, impacting livelihoods.
- Potential for Increased Cooperation:
- Highlight opportunities for enhanced international cooperation in maritime security.
Relevant Facts:
- India’s collaborative efforts with countries like Maldives and Seychelles are examples of this cooperation.
3. Conclusion (50-75 words)
- Summarize the overall impact of the IMO’s decision on India’s maritime security responsibilities and commercial vulnerabilities.
- Emphasize the potential for stronger international collaboration to address piracy concerns.
Final Thoughts
- Ensure clarity and coherence throughout the answer.
- Use relevant facts and sources to support the claims made in each section.
- Aim for a total word count of around 300 words, maintaining a clear and structured flow.
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.
Impact of Longitudinal Marking Shift on India’s Maritime Security Concerns:
1. Enhanced Focus on Maritime Security:
2. Increased Risk to Indian Maritime Interests:
3. Strategic and Operational Implications:
Recent Examples:
Conclusion: The IMO’s longitudinal marking shift has significant implications for India’s maritime security, emphasizing the need for enhanced vigilance and strategic measures. Increased piracy risks necessitate greater naval deployments, improved regional cooperation, and participation in international security initiatives to protect India’s maritime interests.