SAGAR aimed to provide a mechanism for India to expand strategic partnerships with other IOR (Indian Ocean region) littorals in Asia and Africa, indicating the leadership role and responsibilities India is ready to play in the region on a long-term basis transparently through its capacity-building and capability enhancement programs.[1] The vision also highlighted the importance of leveraging the blue economy, which presents India with an unprecedented opportunity to meet its national socio-economic objectives and strengthen connectivity with neighbours. [2]
As per subject matter experts, the ‘Global Commons’ approach to using marine resources poses a risk of overexploitation and creates engagement of multiple players, duplication of actions, and regional dependence on international navies. India’s consultative, democratic, and equitable leadership can help achieve security and sustainable growth for all in the region.
Taking forward this vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Mauritius, H.E. Mr. Pravind Jugnauth jointly inaugurated the new Airstrip and St. James Jetty along with six community development projects at Agalega Island in Mauritius via video conferencing on 29th February 2024.[3] These projects will meet the need for an improved connection between mainland Mauritius and Agalega, strengthen marine security, and promote socioeconomic development. They will provide witness to the solid and enduring development partnership between Mauritius and India. [4]
Amid the tensions with the Maldives, this investment in the Indian Ocean will significantly foster India’s Strategic interest in the region. The event is a symbol of the exemplary partnership between the two nations. India is significantly proving to be “Vishwamitar”[5] by fully funding all the projects that will be carried out on Agalega Island. The partnership between the two nations is highlighted by initiatives like the launch of UPI and RuPay Card Services for the people of Mauritius, showing a commitment to develop mutually.[6]
Mauritius has also marked a significant milestone as it became the first nation to adopt the “Jan Aushadi Scheme” allowing the sourcing of about 250 high-quality medicines from the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India. This development promises a brighter future for healthcare accessibility, and affordability in the region while strengthening the bond between Mauritius and India.[7]
India considers Mauritius a particular partner under Vision SAGAR and a crucial ally of India’s Neighbourhood First Policy under which India promises to be a responsible big brother of Mauritius and will continue to cooperate in all areas like the Exclusive Economic Zone, cooperative patrols, hydrography, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief.[8]
The growing closeness between the two nations is being watched closely by various think tanks and academia. It is speculated that the Indian presence at Agalega Island would bolster India’s sphere of influence in IOR and may even give a boost to India’s capacity for power projection. Some critics view the creation of these assets as an attempt to establish an intelligence outpost in the region; a claim which has been refuted by the Indian government. Notwithstanding these speculations, the Cooperation between the two countries and the creation of an Airstrip and Jetty would facilitate joint patrolling of IOR, the safety of SLOC (Sea Lines of Communication), and surveillance over the Mozambique channel. Mauritius would also benefit immensely due to improved island connectivity, and enhanced infrastructure for the native population.
Endnotes:
[1] Ibid
[2] Ibid
[3] Maria Siow and Maria Siow, “Maldives Still Needs India’s Partnership, Despite Shifting ‘Dynamics’ in Delhi-Malé Ties, Troop Withdrawal,” South China Morning Post, February 7, 2024, https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3251274/maldives-still-needs-indias-partnership-despite-shifting-dynamics-delhi-male-ties-troop-withdrawal
[4] Ibid
[5] Pti, “India Has Emerged as ‘Vishwa Mitra,’ Says Prime Minister Modi in Independence Day Speech,” The Economic Times, August 16, 2023, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/india-has-emerged-as-vishwa-mitra-says-prime-minister-modi-in-independence-day-speech/articleshow/102741472.cms?from=mdr
[6] Siow and Siow, “Maldives Still Needs India’s Partnership, Despite Shifting ‘Dynamics’ in Delhi-Malé Ties, Troop Withdrawal.”
[7] “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Mauritian Prime Minister Jointly Inaugurate New Airstrip and a Jetty at Agalega Island in Mauritius,” Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, n.d., https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/37667/Prime+Minister+Shri+Narendra+Modi+and+Mauritian+Prime+Minister+jointly+inaugurate+new+Airstrip+and+a+Jetty+at+Agalega+Island+in+Mauritius
[8] Ladhu R. Choudhary, “Assessing India’s SAGAR Plan: Challenges Override Prospects,” South Asian Voices, December 19, 2023, https://southasianvoices.org/assessing-indias-sagar-plan-challenges-override-prospects/
By: Sidharth Bhardwaj, Research Intern, CS3,USI