India's timely response during the economic crises in Sri Lanka and the Maldives reflects its 'Neighbourhood First' policy in action. Examine how Indian aid has impacted bilateral ties with these nations. What steps can further be taken to promote sustainable economic cooperation in the Indian Ocean region? (Answer in 250 words)

India's Neighbourhood First Policy is in alignment with its larger policy focus on it being the voice of the Global South.

Neighbourhood First Policy pillars:

Timely responses in Sri Lankan and Maldivian crisis:

1. Line of credit to Sri Lanka during economic crisis in 2022.

2. Line of credit to Maldives for development.

3. Fresh water crisis and aid to Maldives

4. Maldives army cooperation and ocean bridge building.

Impact of aid on bilateral ties between our Lanka-India and Maldives-India:

1. Move to no-strings attached development eg: unlike BRI – Hambantota port.

2. Big brother attitude – opposition in Maldives. eg: election of Pro-china Muizzu and India out campaign.

3. India as a trusted friend-y

4. India as first responder in crises.

5. India's push for inclusive development.

However, certain challenges do persist:

1. 'Dealing in pairs' with China in the mrin.

2. Lack of maritime dominance of Indian Navy.

3. China's string of pearls strategy

4. China's debt-trap diplomacy

Steps to be taken for sustainable economic cooperation in IOR – on basis of MAHASAGAR policy:

1. Expand domain of influence beyond immediate neighbourhood

2. Front Conveyors for naval security eg: MALMBAR Meresin

3. 90%+ India's trade via Indian Ocean – push for open lanes of seas.

4. Uphold Rules Based order – in South China Sea (via diplomatic pressure)

5. Focus BIMSTEC for regional integration eg: Koladan MMT project.

6. Push for trade with ASEAN – FTA to be explicitly.

7. Keep forums open – eg: IORA, information sharing etc.

Thus, India's path to be a vestigiary start with influence over IOR-ie who controls in ocean, controls in world.