International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 7, Issue 4 (July-August 2025) Submit your research before last 3 days of August to publish your research paper in the issue of July-August.

India's Neighbourhood First Policy with Special Reference to Maldives

Author(s) Mr. VISHAL KUMAR
Country India
Abstract This article critically evaluates the Neighbourhood First Doctrine of India with specific reference to the Republic of Maldives and frames the bilateral relations between the two nations from antiquity to the ever-changing strategic dimension in the Indian Ocean. It reviews the course of diplomatic, economic and security engagements and the influence of the regional rivalries –in particular the rising clout of China through its Belt and Road Initiative—on India’s strategic calculus. It also examines critical areas of concern such as political instability in Maldives and changes in internal leadership and public opinion that have, at times, cast a shadow over the relationship. A particular emphasis is given to India’s maritime and counter terrorism co-operation programmes, as well as development assistance, all of which testify to New Delhi’s broader efforts to secure and shape stability in its littoral. The analysis ends by recommending recalibration of India’s regional policy architecture, which can effectively balance strategic interests with the sensitivities of smaller neighbouring states, more so because of increasing external presence and internal democratic fragile condition in the region.
Keywords Neighborhood First Policy, India, Maldives, Geopolitics, Indian Ocean region
Published In Volume 7, Issue 4, July-August 2025
Published On 2025-07-27
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i04.52296
Short DOI https://doi.org/g9vpq3

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