The Indian Navy is increasing its presence on important islands near the Maldives. They’re opening a new base just before the Maldives starts sending Indian forces home. Since a pro-China president won elections, relations between India and the Maldives have deteriorated. Promised to kick out Indian forces.
India worries about China’s growing influence in the Maldives. So the new base will help keep an eye on things.
The new base, opening on March 6 on India’s Lakshadweep islands, will upgrade a small detachment to an “independent naval unit,” as per the Navy’s statement. Lakshadweep islands are about 130 kilometers north of the Maldives, with the new base on Minicoy island being the closest. The Navy already has a base on Kavaratti island, but the new base will be about 258 kilometers closer to the Maldives.
“Minicoy is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep, strategically positioned along key sea routes,” the Navy noted.
The base will enhance anti-piracy and anti-narcotics efforts, aligning with a policy to strengthen security infrastructure on crucial islands.