Lakshadweep, Maldives and PM Modi's diplomatic playbook

In a surprising turn of events, the serene archipelago of Lakshadweep, India’s smallest Union Territory, has emerged from the shadows to seize the limelight on Google Trends. The catalyst? None other than the charismatic Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose recent visit sparked a whirlwind of speculation that hinted at Lakshadweep becoming the nation’s newfound tourist haven. However, the unintended consequence of this newfound interest has stirred the tranquil waters of the Maldives, a popular holiday paradise for many Indians. The surging popularity of Lakshadweep now threatens to cast a shadow over the Maldives’ tourism industry, and what was once a diplomatic ripple has transformed into a tempest, fueled by “derogatory” remarks against Prime Minister Modi from certain political quarters in the Maldives. As the dust settles, it becomes evident that promoting Lakshadweep as a beach destination is not just a travel initiative – it’s a diplomatic chess move that underscores the strength and influence of India and its unwavering leader. As the buzz around Prime Minister Modi’s Lakshadweep visit grew, online speculations hinted at a connection to shifting dynamics in the Maldives. Unconfirmed reports suggested concerns over the Maldives aligning with China, an issue of strategic importance for India. Despite New Delhi’s silence on any direct link, the online discourse intensified, with some Maldivian politicians using derogatory language against PM Modi and Indians. This unfolding narrative unveils deeper geopolitical nuances, laying the groundwork for an exploration into the influence of China in the Maldives. As of 13 December, 2023, the Maldives witnessed a robust 12.6 per cent increase in tourism, totalling 1,757,939 visitors compared to 1.5 million in 2022. Indian tourists took the lead with 209,198 arrivals, outpacing both Russian and Chinese visitors at 209,146 and 187,118, respectively. These figures highlight India’s significant contribution to the Maldives’ flourishing tourism sector. As diplomatic tensions peak between India and the Maldives, tour operators in the island nation are grappling with anxiety, amplified by the suspension of flight bookings on a major Indian travel portal. The digital landscape reflects the turmoil, with MakeMyTrip noting an astounding 3,400 per cent surge in Lakshadweep searches post-Prime Minister Modi’s visit. This sudden shift in travel interest paints a vivid tableau of geopolitical intricacies entwining the tourism sector, casting an ominous shadow over the Maldivian travel industry. The recent diplomatic ripples following Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to Beijing, despite the fallout from derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Modi, underscores a nuanced tale of strategic realignment and indebtedness. Muizzu’s pivot towards China is not a mere symbolic gesture; it represents a carefully calculated move, mirroring a broader narrative of economic dependency and geopolitical manoeuvring. China’s strategic interest in the Maldives dates back to 2008, recognising its geographical significance near vital sea lanes crucial for Beijing’s energy supplies. The acquisition of Feydhoo Finolhu, a small islet strategically positioned near the Malé International Airport, serves as a tangible example of China’s tactical positioning in this geopolitical chess game. Economic engagement is a key facet, with China’s investments extending beyond visible acquisitions to include securing a 50-year lease for a modest $4 million. This economic embrace is a calculated move, as China utilizes its financial leverage to court successive Maldivian administrations, creating a complex web of dependency. The looming debt entanglement is a cause for concern, with the Maldives owing China an astronomical $1.37 billion, constituting roughly 20% of its public debt. Beijing’s role as the Maldives’ largest bilateral creditor raises alarms about the potential pitfalls of a debt trap, casting a shadow over the archipelago’s economic future. China’s geopolitical manoeuvring in the Maldives goes beyond financial ties. In 2018, during a period of political turmoil, China swiftly cautioned India against interference, solidifying its protective stance over Maldivian affairs. Additionally, by orchestrating the Maldives’ transition from a Least Developed Country to a burgeoning economy, China strategically fortified its influence, creating a delicate yet precarious dynamic. In a significant move, the Maldives formally requested India to withdraw its military personnel from its shores earlier last year, shedding light on a geopolitical tug-of-war between India and China for influence in this strategically positioned archipelago. Situated along bustling shipping routes in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives has become a focal point for both nations, leading to substantial investments in infrastructure upgrades and the extension of loans to the country. The troop removal issue underscores the complex dynamics at play as India and China vie for supremacy in this crucial region. Since 1988, India has been a steadfast ally of the Maldives, particularly in defence and security cooperation. This bond extends beyond military matters; in times of crisis, India has consistently supported the Maldives. During the 2004 tsunami and the water crisis in December 2014, India was the first to extend assistance. Amid the global onslaught of the second wave of COVID-19 in January 2021, the Maldives received the first batch of vaccines from India, highlighting India’s commitment to its neighbour’s well-being. Despite export restrictions, India sent 3 lakh vaccine doses within the first three months of the year. India’s assistance during the initial outbreak of COVID-19 was extensive, including the dispatch of a Composite COVID-19 medical relief team comprising pulmonologists, anaesthetists, physicians, and lab technicians. Essential medicines were gifted as a goodwill gesture, and India evacuated nine Maldivian nationals from Wuhan. During the pandemic, India sent 580 tonnes of food, and 50,000 Hydroxychloroquine tablets, and facilitated the travel of 37 seriously ill Maldivian patients to Kochi for medical treatment, even when borders were closed. This steadfast support isn’t limited to crisis response; India is actively contributing to the development of the Maldives. The Hanimaadhoo International Airport expansion project is being supported under a $800 million Line of Credit from the EXIM Bank of India, further solidifying the partnership. These instances underscore the depth of the India-Maldives friendship, showcasing India’s commitment to the well-being and progress of its island neighbour. In recent years, the Maldives has witnessed the rise of radical forces and the impact of extremism on Maldivian soil, while not extensive in terms of attacks, has targeted the democratic government and tourists. The trend began with the 2007 Male Sultan Square Attack, and more recent incidents, like the 2020 arson assault and the 2021 IED explosion targeting former president Mohamed Nasheed, highlight the persistent threat. ISIS and Al Qaeda have successfully recruited Maldivian youth as foreign fighters, with the Maldives earning the dubious distinction of being the world’s largest per capita Foreign Terrorist Fighter (FTF) contributor. Factors such as Saudi Wahabism and Deobandism infiltrating Maldivian society, along with the influence of foreign-educated individuals returning with extremist interpretations of Islam, have contributed to the radicalization of the youth. The Maldives, once known for its tolerant version of Islam, now grapples with radicalised individuals viewing the nation as a land of ‘Kafirs’ (infidels). The recruitment and reinforcement of Maldivian operatives with organizations like Al-Qaeda and ISIS underscore the alarming peak of radicalism in the country. Concerns grow as the influence of extremist interpretations continues to pressure successive governments to implement policies aligned with their ideologies. Amidst the expanding Chinese influence in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, President Xi Jinping’s ambitious plans for an extensive naval arc from the Bay of Bengal to the Arabian Sea loom large. This geopolitical landscape demands India’s attention and strategic planning. However, a more immediate concern arises within the confines of Lakshadweep — a region entangled in a web of drug trafficking and arms smuggling. The startling revelation emerges as the value of drugs seized in Lakshadweep between November 2020 and 31 March, 2021, skyrockets to an astonishing Rs5,000 crore. To put this in perspective, it’s nearly three times the annual budget allocated for Lakshadweep in 2021-22, which stands at Rs1,349.71 crore. Within a modest surface area of around 32 km, the drug trafficking turnover paints a grim picture, exacerbated by the value and quantity of firearms seized. This concerning scenario unveils a geographical shift in the drug trafficking route, with Sri Lankan boats ferrying illicit substances and weapons into the remote Lakshadweep islands. Untangling this complex network poses a formidable challenge for enforcement agencies, and the even greater puzzle lies in tracing how these illegal goods find their way into the Indian mainland. Amidst aspirations to open Lakshadweep’s doors to tourism, these pressing issues demand immediate attention. Before unlocking the potential of this scenic paradise, a meticulous focus on combating drug trafficking and arms smuggling is imperative. It is not just a matter of national security; it is a critical step towards ensuring a safe and sustainable future for Lakshadweep. In navigating these challenges, India stands at a crossroads, where the allure of tourism must be balanced with a steadfast commitment to addressing the darker undercurrents threatening the tranquility of Lakshadweep. It’s not just about opening doors; it’s about fortifying the foundations to withstand the storm that lurks beneath the surface. Nevertheless, there is a steadfast belief that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, a resolute commitment to addressing these challenges will be undertaken. The author is a practicing advocate. She writes article on women’s rights, politics and law. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .