Security threats increase in form and frequency in the South-West Indian Ocean, discuss the role played by India in relation to small island developing states (SIDS) in the region. (Answer in 250 words)

South-West Indian Ocean consists of many sovereign island states (Seychelles, Mauritius etc.) and home to many important sea-lines of communication and trade. Security Threats includes: Piracy (marked on diagram), Illegal arms/drugs trafficking, Open ocean exploitation, Soviet installation.

Role played by India: (1) Sharing of information regarding security threats through Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR). (2) Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Assistance (HADR) by India to SIDS countries. (3) Cooperation and coalition under Coral Island For Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) to help with climate change and adaptation. (4) Assistance in anti-piracy operations by Indian Navy led under Indian Ocean Commission (IOC). (5) Provision of defence equipments and coast guard boats etc. as marine radars, coast guard boats et al. (6) Provision of mitigation and adaptation fund through Global Climate Facility (GCF) for adaptation.

SIDS nations due to their size and location are in unique position of critical location lest us capability. India must be voice of 'Global South' to promote 'a secure, inclusive and laws-based Indian ocean'.