In a recent development, India and the Maldives participated in the 4th Defence Cooperation Dialogue (DCD) situated in Male. The DCD, an interactive mechanism of the highest level between the two nations, is instrumental in outlining the future trajectory of relationships involving both Armed Forces.
Main Areas of Cooperation Between India and Maldives
Various areas exist for the cooperation between India and Maldives, which can broadly be classified under sectors like tourism, security partnership, rehabilitation, and infrastructure.
Tourism: A Major Source of Income for Maldives
Tourism acts as the backbone of the Maldivian economy, transforming the country into a significant tourist destination for some Indian tourists and a job opportunity destination for others. In August 2021, Afcons, an Indian company, marked its presence by signing a contract for the most massive infrastructure project ever to be instituted in Maldives, the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP).
Security Partnership Ensures Mutual Safety
Defence cooperation stretches to conducting Joint Exercises such as “Ekuverin”, “Dosti”, “Ekatha” and “Operation Shield”, a venture that commenced in 2021. By taking up around 70% of Maldivian National Defence Force’s (MNDF) defence training requirements, India stands as the chief provider of training opportunities for MNDF.
Infrastructure Development and Rehabilitation Initiatives
In a bid to extend assistance for the Addu reclamation and shore protection project, there has been the signing of an USD 80-million contract. On the infrastructure front, 2022 witnessed the inauguration of the National College for Policing and Law Enforcement (NCPLE) by India’s External Affairs Minister. Notably, NCPLE is the most extensive grant project ever executed by India in the Maldives.
Previous Year Questions (PYQs) in UPSC Civil Services Examination
Reviewing past trends, aspirants for the UPSC Civil Services Examination can refer to these Previous Year Questions related to India’s stance concerning the Maldivian internal situations:
1. ‘The String of Pearls’: What does this term signify and how does it affect India? Also, briefly discuss the measures put forth by India to counter this. (2013)
2. Discuss the political developments in the Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause for concern to India? (2013)
Note: The source of the information is PIB.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024