Wed Nov 20 08:55:05 UTC 2024: ## India Bolsters Maritime Security in Indo-Pacific Amidst Rising Tensions
**NEW DELHI** – India is significantly expanding its maritime security capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to promote stability and counter threats such as piracy, trafficking, and assertive military actions, according to a recent analysis by Defence Mantra. The Indian Ocean Region (IOR), crucial for India’s economic and energy security, is a primary focus.
India’s enhanced maritime presence is a key component of its “Act East” policy and broader Indo-Pacific vision, which champions a free and rules-based maritime order. This strategy involves strengthening partnerships with Southeast Asian nations and like-minded countries, including through the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) with the US, Japan, and Australia. Joint military exercises like Malabar serve as a powerful deterrent against unilateral actions that threaten regional stability.
Collaboration with ASEAN nations is also central to India’s approach, working to combat illegal activities and maintain maritime security. These efforts are increasingly important given China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea, which challenge the principles of freedom of navigation and international maritime law.
India has consistently emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters during high-level diplomatic engagements, positioning itself as a responsible maritime power dedicated to upholding international norms. The nation’s increased maritime security efforts are viewed as vital for maintaining a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.
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