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General Studies-2; Topic: India and its neighbourhood- relations.
India-Maldives relations
Introduction
• India-Maldives relations have historically been warm, rooted in geographical proximity, civilizational
ties, and mutual security and economic interests.
• However, since President Mohamed Muizzu took office in September 2023, on the back of the “India
Out” campaign, relations between Malé and New Delhi have faced unprecedented strain.
• Yet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the Maldives, and the signing of several agreements,
suggests a course correction and a possible diplomatic thaw.
Historical Background
• India was among the first countries to recognize the Maldives’ independence in 1965 and establish
diplomatic relations.
• India played a key role during the 1988 coup attempt under Operation Cactus and has consistently
supported Maldivian security through defence cooperation and capacity building.
• India has been a first responder during crises in the Maldives, including during the 2004 tsunami and the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Importance of Maldives in India’s Strategic Framework
• The Maldives is a critical component of India's policy to prioritize neighbouring countries in foreign and
development outreach.
• Located atop strategic sea lanes, the Maldives is vital to India’s maritime security and energy trade
routes.
• Under India’s Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative, the Maldives is viewed as a
key maritime partner for ensuring stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
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• India has consistently been among the top sources of tourists to the Maldives, contributing significantly
to the island nation’s economy.
The ‘India Out’ Campaign and Muizzu’s Rise to Power
• Origin of Campaign: Spearheaded by supporters of former President Abdulla Yameen, the campaign
accused India of military overreach and undue political influence.
• Muizzu’s Political Platform: Mohamed Muizzu capitalized on nationalist sentiment and promised to
reduce India’s strategic footprint in the Maldives.
• Post-Election Moves: Upon assuming office, Muizzu demanded the withdrawal of Indian military
personnel operating humanitarian and surveillance aircraft in the Maldives.
India’s Diplomatic Reset through PM Modi’s 2025 Visit
• PM Modi’s attendance at the Maldives’ Independence Day celebrations in July 2025 was symbolic and
strategic, indicating a desire to reset bilateral ties.
• Key Agreements Signed:
o Infrastructure development projects such as ports, roads, and renewable energy.
o Expansion of cooperation in health and digital technology sectors.
o Educational exchange programmes and capacity-building initiatives.
• Modi met not only with government officials but also with opposition leaders — a signal that India is
seeking long-term, bipartisan engagement.
The Role of China: Competition or Coexistence?
• China's Growing Influence:
o Major infrastructural projects like the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge.
o Expanding economic presence through loans and grants.
• According to World Bank estimates and local data, over 30% of Maldives’ external debt is owed to
Chinese entities. Talks on debt restructuring have yielded little progress so far.
• India cannot prevent the Maldives from engaging with China, but it can counterbalance through:
o Transparent and sustainable infrastructure funding.
o Avoiding over-politicization of aid.
o Emphasizing capacity building and local employment generation.
India’s Long-Term Strategy: Balancing Realism with Engagement
• Focus on People-Centric Projects: Infrastructure, health, education, and capacity-building projects are
less susceptible to political changes.
• Defense Cooperation: While troops were withdrawn, India can still assist through joint training,
maritime patrols, and disaster relief operations.
• Engagement Beyond Politics: By engaging with all stakeholders, including the opposition and civil
society, India can reduce dependency on the party in power.
• Media and Cultural Diplomacy: India should also invest in enhancing public perception through cultural
exchanges, scholarships, and media presence.
Way Forward
• India must respect the Maldives’ right to make sovereign foreign policy choices, including engaging with
China.
• Civilian and humanitarian presence (e.g., medical aid, air ambulances) should be emphasized over
strategic assets.
• India should propose more attractive financial alternatives to Chinese loans, such as grants, low-interest
credit, and PPP models.
• India must continuously monitor internal Maldivian politics and maintain flexible diplomacy.
Conclusion
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• India-Maldives ties have passed through turbulence under President Muizzu’s regime, but recent
developments suggest room for rapprochement.
• While the China factor remains potent, India still holds significant leverage through cultural ties, tourism,
and development aid.
• As India seeks to assert its role as a regional power in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives will remain a
crucial partner.
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