QUESTION 20
GS2
15 marks
Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition.
WRITE IN
11 min
250 words
What the examiner wants
Discuss the Maldives' importance for India's trade, energy and maritime security, and how the relationship affects regional stability.
DiscussExplain the different sides of the issue, use evidence, and finish with a balanced view.
Demand-wise check
- 1Geography: astride sea lanes near the 8-degree and 1.5-degree channels, close to Lakshadweep≈65 words
- 2Trade and energy: oil and cargo routes from the Gulf≈65 words
- 3Security: China's role, 'India Out' campaign, 2024 reset with currency swap and support; Colombo Security Conclave≈65 words
Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.
Answer plan
LocationTrade and energySecurityRecent politicsIndia's approachConclusion
Where marks usually go
- No map
- Ignoring recent ups and downs
Draw this
- Map of the Indian Ocean with Maldives and channels
Value addition
- FactIndia extended a USD 400 million and ₹30 billion currency swap to Maldives in October 2024.Ministry of External Affairs / RBI
- FactMaldives is a member of the Colombo Security Conclave with India, Sri Lanka and Mauritius.Colombo Security Conclave
Mapped topper copies
Reviewed public-source references related to this PYQ. Same-syllabus references are labelled separately.
- Shakti Dubey · AIR 1 · Page 44 ↗Same syllabus reference
Links open original public sources. MainsBuddy does not host these answer sheets.
Next: plan for one minute, write it in 11 minutes, then get it checked.