Countering Chinese assertiveness: India’s changing posture in the Indian Ocean

By Dr Rajeswari Rajagopalan

The Indian Ocean region is becoming increasingly contested as increased Chinese presence and assertiveness challenges the regional order. In the face of these developments, India has shifted its perceptions and priorities in the region to preserve its interests.

In this analysis brief, Dr Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan examines recent developments in the Indian Ocean region and the impact on New Delhi’s regional outlook. She writes that as China’s regional footprint grows, India has switched its outlook to become more active in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. Where India was previously wary of the presence of external navies in the Indian Ocean, it is now opting for multilateral cooperation with like-minded partners to deal with maritime challenges.