Subject: Physical Geography

The South China Sea (SCS) has emerged as a critical geopolitical hotspot due to its strategic location, abundant resources, and competing territorial claims, making it a focal point of international relations and regional stability.

Strategic Location and Economic Significance

• The SCS serves as a vital maritime corridor connecting the Pacific and Indian Oceans, facilitating approximately 70-80% of global maritime trade.
• It houses crucial sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) with one-third of global maritime traffic passing through these waters.
• The region contains significant hydrocarbon reserves and rich marine biodiversity, supporting the livelihoods of millions through fishing activities.

Geopolitical Tensions and Maritime Security

• China's assertive actions, including the construction of artificial islands and militarization of disputed territories, have escalated regional tensions.
• Recent confrontations between China and the Philippines near the Second Thomas Shoal have led to dangerous maneuvers and collisions.
• The deployment of naval assets, including India's warships (INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan) in 2024, demonstrates the increasing military presence in the region.

International Cooperation and Strategic Partnerships

• The inaugural ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME 2023) highlights growing strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
• India-Singapore joint naval exercises in 2023, featuring submarine deployments, underscore the commitment to maritime security.
• Enhanced military cooperation between the Philippines and the United States reflects strengthening alliances to counter regional challenges.

Environmental and Resource Challenges

• Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing threatens marine ecosystems and regional food security.
• Competing claims over resource-rich areas have led to increased maritime law enforcement activities.
• The need for sustainable resource management and environmental protection adds another layer of complexity to regional dynamics.

The South China Sea's geopolitical significance continues to grow as nations strive to maintain the freedom of navigation, protect economic interests, and preserve regional stability through initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and strategic naval exercises.