As the shadow of the 2020 Ladakh crisis looms large, the India-China rivalry has shifted from the towering Himalayas to the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. In a strategic game of cat and mouse, both nations are extending their spheres of influence, creating a new theatre of competition with profound implications for regional and global stability. This analysis delves into the military manoeuvres, strategic partnerships, and geopolitical calculations driving this escalating maritime contest, as India and China vie for dominance in the Indo-Pacific region.

The India-China rivalry in the Indian Ocean Region is more than a maritime contest; it’s a strategic showdown with far-reaching consequences. China’s ambitions, driven by economic imperatives and geopolitical strategies, are countered by India’s robust maritime strategy and regional alliances. The power balance in the IOR will significantly influence broader Indo-Pacific dynamics, making it imperative for regional actors to navigate this complex landscape with strategic foresight and diplomatic finesse.

China’s engagement in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is driven by its economic imperatives, seeking to capitalize on the trade prospects and demographic vibrancy of the region. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is central to this strategy,........

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