Answer: 

Introduction:

In the past two years, political developments in Maldives have presented both opportunities and concerns for India. The victory of Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the presidential election signaled a shift towards democracy, but challenges such as China’s growing influence, security threats, and the need for regional stability have emerged.

Body:

Signing of Development Pacts:

• Grant Assistance for Community Development: India provided 100 million Rufiyaa to support the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) scheme in Maldives, aiming at socio-economic development throughout the country.
• Sports Complex and Academic Collaboration: Collaboration between Maldives National University and Cochin University of Science and Technology for the development of a sports complex in Gahdhoo and academic partnership.

Security Partnership:

• Defense Cooperation: Joint exercises, such as “Ekuverin,” “Dosti,” “Ekatha,” and “Operation Shield,” along with substantial training opportunities for Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) provided by India.
• Rehabilitation Center: Assistance in building a drug detoxification and rehabilitation center in Addu, part of India’s high-impact community development projects in various sectors.

Economic Cooperation:

• Trade and Infrastructure Projects: India has become Maldives’ second-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade witnessing a growth of 31% in 2021. Infrastructure projects like Hanimaadhoo International Airport development and Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP) have strengthened economic ties.
• Currency Swap Agreement: A bilateral USD currency swap agreement between the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Maldives Monetary Authority.

Challenges in India-Maldives Relations:

• Political Instability: Concerns over the impact of political instability in Maldives on India’s security and development, exemplified by the 2015 arrest of opposition leader Mohamed Nasheed and subsequent crisis.
• Radicalization: Increasing number of Maldivians joining terrorist groups, including the Islamic State (IS) and Pakistan-based jihadists, posing a potential threat to India’s security.
• China’s Influence: China’s expanding strategic presence in the Maldives, as part of its “String of Pearls” strategy in South Asia, raises concerns for India’s security interests in the region.

Way Forward:

• Indo-Pacific Security: India needs to actively engage in the Indo-Pacific security space to ensure regional stability, particularly in South Asia and maritime boundaries.
• Addressing Concerns: India should effectively communicate its intentions behind development projects to address concerns raised by supporters of the “India Out” campaign, ensuring the continuation of the favorable relationship between India and Maldives.
• Regional Leadership: India should assume a leadership role in the Indo-Pacific region to counterbalance the influence of extra-regional powers and safeguard its maritime sphere of influence.

Conclusion:

As India-Maldives relations evolve, India must navigate concerns over political stability, radicalization, and China’s influence. By actively engaging in the Indo-Pacific security space, addressing concerns through effective communication, and assuming a leadership role in the region, India can safeguard its maritime interests and ensure a favorable and stable relationship with Maldives.