India faces numerous maritime security challenges, including piracy, smuggling, and territorial disputes, which threaten its vast coastline and maritime interests. To address these issues, the government has implemented a range of organizational, technical, and procedural initiatives aimed at enhancing maritime security.

Q.10 What are the maritime security challenges in India ? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security.

Model Answer:

Introduction

 India, with its extensive coastline of over 7,500 kilometers, views the seas as both a source of opportunity and a critical security frontier. The maritime domain is vital for trade, energy supplies, and strategic interests, but it also presents significant security challenges.

Body

Maritime Security Challenges:

  1. State-based Threats: Geopolitical tensions, particularly with neighboring countries like China and Pakistan, pose significant threats. The presence of Chinese naval forces in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is a growing concern.
  2. Non-State Threats: Piracy, terrorism, and smuggling are persistent issues. The 2008 Mumbai attacks highlighted vulnerabilities to seaborne terrorism.
  3. Resource Protection: Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing depletes marine resources, impacting food security and livelihoods.
  4. Limited Capacities: India's maritime infrastructure and surveillance capabilities need enhancement to effectively monitor and secure its vast maritime domain.
  5. Focus on the Wrong Threat: Sometimes, disproportionate focus on traditional threats can lead to neglect of emerging non-traditional threats like cyber-attacks on maritime infrastructure.

Organisational, Technical, and Procedural Initiatives:

  1. Improving Coordination: The establishment of the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) and the National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) project enhances inter-agency coordination.
  2. Technological Upgrades: Deployment of coastal radar chains, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), and satellite surveillance improves maritime situational awareness.
  3. Legal Framework: The Maritime Security Act and amendments to the Coast Guard Act strengthen legal provisions for maritime security.
  4. International Cooperation: India engages in joint naval exercises like Malabar, and collaborates with regional forums like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) to bolster collective security.
  5. Capacity Building: Initiatives like the Sagarmala project aim to modernize ports and enhance coastal infrastructure, thereby improving overall maritime security.

Additional Organisational and Operational Improvements:

  1. Blue Economy: Promoting sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.
  2. Training and Human Resources: Regular training programs and capacity-building exercises for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard personnel.
  3. Research and Development: Investment in R&D for advanced maritime technologies and indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.
  4. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating coastal communities about maritime security and involving them in surveillance efforts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, maritime security is crucial for India's national security and economic prosperity. A future-oriented, integrated approach that addresses both traditional and emerging threats is essential to safeguard India's maritime interests.

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