Subject: International Relations

The concept of 'String of Pearls' represents China's strategic encirclement of India through establishment of military and commercial facilities across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), presenting significant geopolitical challenges in India's maritime neighborhood.

Understanding the String of Pearls Strategy

• It involves China's creation of naval facilities and strategic partnerships spanning from the South China Sea through the Strait of Malacca, across the Indian Ocean to the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf.
• China has developed or operates over 21 ports across the IOR, including strategic locations like Gwadar (Pakistan), Hambantota (Sri Lanka), and Chittagong (Bangladesh).
• Recent developments include operationalization of Lamu port in Kenya (May 2021), showcasing China's expanding maritime footprint.

Impact on India

• Strategic Encirclement: Creates potential chokepoints around India's maritime boundaries and threatens its security interests.
• Economic Implications: China's trade dominance, reaching $118.4 billion in bilateral trade (2023-24), increases dependency of regional economies on Beijing.
• Maritime Security: Challenges India's traditional role as the primary security provider in the IOR.
• Regional Influence: Diminishes India's strategic partnerships with neighboring countries through China's debt-trap diplomacy.

India's Counter Measures

• Military Preparedness:

  • Enhanced naval presence and military exercises in the IOR (2023-2025).
  • Strengthening maritime surveillance capabilities and coastal security infrastructure.

• Diplomatic Initiatives:

  • Leadership role in Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) (2023-2027).
  • Focus on digital transformation and maritime security through the IORA Special Fund.

• Strategic Partnerships:

  • Strengthening ties with Quad nations (US, Japan, Australia).
  • Developing strategic port facilities in Iran (Chabahar) and Indonesia (Sabang).

India's proactive approach through diplomatic engagement, military modernization, and strategic partnerships aims to maintain its position as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region while countering China's expanding influence through the String of Pearls strategy.