India’s geography lends itself favourably to the cultivation and expansion of maritime ties. Yet, for much of the country’s contemporary history, the country has overlooked these opportunities. As the world reengages with its vast ocean spaces, India too, has become more willing and capable of participating in the maritime domain. This paper outlines the evolution of the country’s maritime outlook as it shifts its largely continental-oriented focus to one in which maritime engagements are vital to foreign policy. The paper accounts for the advances in New Delhi’s strategic and diplomatic capacity, the attendant impediments, roadblocks, and imperatives. It argues that going forward, India’s maritime role will shape, and in turn will be shaped, by developments in the Indo-Pacific.
Maritime India: The Quest for a Steadfast Identity | ORF (orfonline.org)
