India positions itself as ‘net security provider’ in IOR amid China push, govt tells panel
MEA outlines range of military, humanitarian and capacity-building initiatives aimed at reinforcing India’s strategic footprint across the region
India is stepping up efforts to consolidate its role as a “net security provider” in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) amid growing Chinese presence and evolving non-traditional threats, the government has informed a parliamentary panel.
In its action-taken response to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) outlined a range of military, humanitarian and capacity-building initiatives aimed at reinforcing India’s strategic footprint across the region.
The committee, in its recommendations, had flagged rising geopolitical and security challenges in the IOR, including the increasing role of extra-regional actors — particularly China — through strategic infrastructure and dual-use port projects.
It also highlighted concerns over piracy, illegal fishing, terrorism and environmental threats such as climate change and marine pollution.
Emphasising India’s position as the “largest and most influential” country in the region, the panel had called for a comprehensive approach combining enhanced naval presence, maritime domain awareness and deeper defence cooperation with smaller littoral states.
Responding to the concerns, the MEA said “India enjoys strong defence ties with regional partners and continues to promote a rules-based order”. It cited initiatives such as the establishment of the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Colombo and humanitarian assistance, including support during the Wakashio oil spill and cyclone-related disasters, as evidence of India’s role as a “first responder”.
The government also pointed to the Indian Navy’s mission-based deployments, launched in 2017, which have ensured sustained presence at key chokepoints and enabled rapid response to emerging contingencies.
Regional cooperation mechanisms such as the Colombo Security Conclave have further strengthened coordination on maritime security challenges, it added.
The Navy, the MEA said, continued to work closely with friendly foreign countries through joint patrols, information sharing and capacity-building initiatives, particularly in exclusive economic zones.
The committee noted these efforts but stressed the need for sustained investment in naval capabilities and partnerships to maintain India’s edge and counter growing strategic competition in the Indian Ocean.
