"Whoever controls the Indian Ocean dominates Asia. This Ocean is the key to the seven seas. In the twenty first century, the destiny of the world will be decided in its waters". -Alfred Mahan
The importance of the Indian Ocean was well understood by Alfred Mahan, one of the leading thinkers on maritime affairs in the world. With a host of countries, both regional and extra-regional having their presence in these waters, India felt necessary to adopt a maritime policy to certify that it is in a position to influence events in the region. Factors governing Indian maritime strategies were hence focussed on the entire spectrum of issues encompassing foreign policy, port infrastructure, labour laws, ship building industry, shipping industry, coastal and inland shipping, maritime forces, security arrangements with other powers in the region.
Infrastructure
The magnitude of the development of infrastructure, for attaining high growth rates, has successfully been grasped by the country. Presently, infrastructural supremacy is counted as the prime factor in governing maritime strategies of India. The major thrust is on the development of roads, power generation and telecommunication.
Ports: India has 12 major ports and 185 minor ports spread on India`s extensive coastline, with the bulk of the overseas trade being handled in the major ports. When it comes to ports, shipping and ship building in colossal dimension are some of the key factors governing maritime strategies of India.
Economic Activity
Off Shore Exploration: The oil exploration sector has received a boost in the recent past with the entry of private players in this field. ONGC (Oil and Natural Gas Corporation) has also unveiled major plans for exploration in the Indian EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) and other foreign oil fields. India has made a headway in the field of deep sea-bed mining. Being a technology intensive field, the country is working towards making a successful policy in maritime strategies.
Non Conventional Energy: The oceans afford India with an opportunity to develop energy through non-conventional means like tides and waves. The Gulfs of Kachchh and Cambay are ideal for production of electricity by harnessing the gigantic tidal variations. The long coastline provides many ideal locations to harness the energy of the waves to produce electricity.
Fishing Industry: The Indian fishing industry has terrific potential for growth. Most local fishermen exploit sections in the coastal waters. Hence, looking seawards, Indian maritime strategies assimilate several governing factors.
