What was the theme of 8th Indian Ocean Conference held at Muscat ,Oman?
(A) Maritime security and counterterrorism
(B) Maritime security threats
(C) Economic Lifeline and Trade
(D) Voyage to New Horizons of maritime partnership
The correct answer is:
(D) Voyage to New Horizons of maritime partnership
Indian Ocean Conference (IOC)
- Definition & Purpose
- IOC is an annual international summit focusing on geopolitical, economic, security, and environmental challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Goal: To promote regional cooperation, strengthen maritime security, foster economic development, emphasize environmental sustainability, and address geopolitical concerns.
- Establishment & Origin
- Established in 2016 by the India Foundation (a New Delhi-based think tank).
- First Conference: Held in Singapore.
- Initial participation: ~30 countries.
- Present: Representation from 60+ countries and major international organizations.
- Nature of the Conference
- Brings together leaders, policymakers, academics, experts, and businesses.
- Acts as a dialogue platform among Indian Ocean nations and global powers.
- Works under the vision of “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR).
Evolution of India’s Maritime Vision
- SAGAR Doctrine (2015)
- Acronym: Security and Growth for All in the Region.
- Focus: Strengthening ties across the Indian Ocean Region, ensuring maritime security, economic cooperation, and regional stability.
- MAHASAGAR Initiative (2025)
- Full Form: Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
- Announced: 2025.
- Expansion: From Indian Ocean Region to a global maritime strategy.
- Emphasis: Connecting with the Global South and fostering shared prosperity and security across all oceans.
- Objective: Broaden India’s vision from regional to comprehensive-global scale, promoting collective security, sustainable growth, and inclusive maritime development.