Recently, Mauritius denied a report suggesting that it has permitted India to construct a military base on the remote Agalega Island. This follows news from a broadcaster claiming an airstrip and two jetties for an Indian military base are under construction on the island.
Background of the Agalega Project
India signed an agreement with Mauritius in 2015 for the development of Agalega Islands. The agreement’s intent was to upgrade infrastructure and improve sea and air connectivity, thereby enhancing the capabilities of the Mauritian Defence Forces to safeguard their interests in the Outer Island. Since then, increasing reports have emerged about the Indian naval and coastguard’s intent to establish transponder systems and surveillance infrastructure. This has sparked local protests.
Components of the Agalega Project
The Agalega project includes the construction of a jetty, rebuilding, and extension of the runway, and the creation of an airport terminal on Agalega Island. The $87 million project funded by India would introduce a new airport, port, logistics, communication facilities, and other project-related facilities. Agalega island is located in the southwestern Indian Ocean, 1,122 km north of Mauritius, with a total land area of 27 square miles (70 square km).
Significance of the Project
The Agalega project carries significant implications for India and Mauritius. For India, it strengthens its presence in the south-west Indian Ocean, aiding its power launch aspirations in the region. It is crucial for air and surface maritime patrols in the south-west Indian Ocean and serves as an intelligence outpost. Mauritius, positioned as a “central geographic point”, holds importance for commerce and connectivity in the Indian Ocean. As a member of significant unions and commissions, it provides a stepping stone to multiple geographies and is a significant neighbor as a founding member of the ‘Small Island Developing States’ (SIDS).
Protecting Foreign Trade and Countering Threats
India conducts 95% of its trade by volume and 68% by value via the Indian Ocean. Nearly 80% of India’s crude oil requirement is imported by sea via the Indian Ocean. Hence, a presence in the Indian Ocean is vital for India’s commerce. Additionally, countering China’s ‘String of Pearls’ strategy, which could pose a threat to India’s strategic interests, necessitates a presence in the larger Indian Ocean Region.
SAGAR Initiative and Enhanced Security Infrastructure
The Agalega project aligns with India’s SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in Region) initiative, reflecting its efforts to contribute to its neighbors’ development. The project is also expected to enhance the capabilities of Mauritius security forces through infrastructure upgrades.
Challenges Faced
Despite its significance, the project faces various challenges. There are concerns about project transparency raised by Mauritius opposition and exemptions given to the project from any Environmental license process (EIA clearances). Some locals fear forced relocation due to the project, reminiscent of the UK’s actions with the Chagos islands before Mauritian independence. The growing presence of military powers like France, China, US, and the UK in the Indian Ocean also amplify fears of militarization of their peaceful region. China’s expanding presence in the northern part of the Indian Ocean is another challenge for India.
Recent Developments and Mutual Contributions
In 2021, major initiatives were taken to foster Indo-Mauritian cooperation. India and Mauritius jointly inaugurated a Supreme Court building in Mauritius. The Union Cabinet approved the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) between the countries. A $100 million Defence Line of Credit agreement was also signed, enabling Mauritius to lease a Dornier aircraft and an Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv for building its maritime security capabilities. India supported Mauritius on the Chagos Archipelago dispute at UN General Assembly. As part of its Covid-19 aid, India supplied 1,00,000 Covishield vaccines to Mauritius.
Way Forward
As the Indian bases are soft bases, locals can move through any Indian-made project, providing local governments more domain control and undiluted sovereignty. India needs to present itself as a credible, long-term partner by dispelling the fears of affected parties. Since companies registered in Mauritius are the largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India, it is essential for India to upgrade its bilateral tax treaty. As India takes an integrated view of its security cooperation in the south-western Indian Ocean, Mauritius is the natural choice. Therefore, course-corrections are necessary in India’s Neighbourhood First policy.