HYDROGRAPHIC
SURVEY PACT - GOVERNANCE
News:
Maldives not to renew
pact with India on hydrographic surveys in its territory
What's
in the news?
●
After threatening to send Indian soldiers
packing, the latest development from the Maldives
is their decision not to renew an agreement with India for conducting
hydrographic surveys of their waters.
Hydrographic
Survey Pact:
1.
Nature of Hydrographic Surveys:
●
These surveys involve mapping water bodies
to facilitate safe and efficient maritime transportation.
2.
2019 Agreement:
●
During Prime Minister Modi’s state visit
to the Maldives in June 2019, an MoU was signed for cooperation in hydrography
between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
Activities
under the Pact:
1.
Joint Hydrographic Surveys:
●
Three joint surveys were conducted in
2021, 2022 and 2023, involving Indian Naval Ships like INS Darshak and INS
Sutlej.
2.
Survey Objectives:
●
The surveys aimed to update navigational
charts and support sectors like tourism and fisheries. They also involved tidal
observations and identifying new shoals.
3.
Support to MNDF:
●
India provided hydrographic equipment and
training to MNDF personnel, aligning with its policy of supporting the Maldives
in establishing hydrographic capabilities.
India’s
Hydrographic Survey Agreements with Other Countries:
1.
Global Hydrographic Efforts:
●
India has conducted hydrographic surveys
in various countries, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Bangladesh.
2.
International Cooperation:
●
The National Hydrographic Office
highlights the potential for international cooperation in hydrography,
especially in regions with limited capabilities.
Reasons
behind Maldives’ Decision:
1.
Regime Change:
●
The election of Mohamed Muizzu of the
Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), seen as more pro-China, contrasts with his
predecessor President Solih’s India-friendly stance.
2.
Geopolitical Dynamics:
●
China’s increasing influence in the Indian
Ocean region, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has
impacted India’s traditional sphere of influence in the Maldives.
3.
‘India Out’ Campaign:
●
Allegations of Indian military presence
and the new administration’s emphasis on national security and self-reliance in
hydrographic capabilities have influenced this decision.
Concerns:
1.
Changing Geopolitical Landscape:
●
The Maldives’ decision reflects the
shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean, with growing Chinese
influence challenging India’s traditional role.
2.
Impact on India-Maldives Relations:
●
This development could signify a
recalibration of the Maldives’ foreign policy, potentially impacting India’s
strategic interests in the region.