China’s String of Pearls Policy: Implications for India

China’s String of Pearls Policy: Implications for India

– Dr Reeta Kumari

Abstract

China’s “String of Pearls” strategy refers to its growing network of military and commercial infrastructure across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), encompassing ports, bases, and diplomatic ties in countries such as Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and the Maldives. This policy has significant geopolitical and security implications for India, as it challenges New Delhi’s traditional influence in the region and raises concerns over strategic encirclement. The development of Chinese-controlled ports, such as Gwadar in Pakistan and Hambantota in Sri Lanka, provides Beijing with potential military and economic leverage, increasing India’s vulnerability in maritime security. Additionally, the expansion of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) under this strategy influences regional trade routes, creating economic dependencies that could shift the balance of power. In response, India has pursued countermeasures such as the “Necklace of Diamonds” strategy, enhancing its naval presence, strengthening regional alliances, and investing in infrastructure projects across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). In this paper the researcher will examines the strategic, economic, and security dimensions of the String of Pearls policy, assessing its long-term impact on India’s maritime security and regional influence.

Keywords: Indian Ocean Region, Belt and Road Initiative, security dimensions, strategic encirclement, maritime security, naval presence.

Introduction

China’s “String of Pearls” strategy is a geopolitical framework involving the establishment of strategic ports and infrastructure across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). American researchers first used the phrase as a geopolitical hypothesis in 2004, outlining the Chinese threat to India’s national interest.  This network of commercial and military footholds spans from mainland China to the Middle East and Africa, passing through key maritime chokepoints. The strategy, closely linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is perceived as an effort to enhance Beijing’s maritime influence and secure critical Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs). However, for India, this growing Chinese presence in its maritime neighbourhood presents serious security and strategic concerns.

Understanding the String of Pearls Strategy

The term “String of Pearls” was first coined by U.S. analysts to describe China’s increasing military and economic presence along the IOR. It consists of a series of ports and infrastructure projects in countries such as:

1. Gwadar, Pakistan

A key deep-water port that provides China direct access to the Arabian Sea, bypassing the Malacca Strait. The Gwadar Port, located in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, is a key component of China’s String of Pearls strategy, which aims to establish a network of strategic maritime assets across the Indian Ocean. This strategy is primarily designed to secure China’s energy supply routes, enhance its maritime influence, and counter potential strategic encirclement by adversaries like India and the United States. Gwadar Port is a vital link in China’s String of Pearls strategy, offering strategic, economic, and geopolitical advantages. While it strengthens China’s maritime presence and trade security, it also escalates regional competition, particularly with India and Western powers. As the power struggle in the Indian Ocean intensifies, Gwadar’s role in global geopolitics will continue to grow.

1. Hambantota, Sri Lanka

The Hambantota Port, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is a key element of China’s String of Pearls strategy, which aims to establish a network of strategic maritime assets across the Indian Ocean. A strategically located port that China has leased for ninety-nine years, raising concerns over its potential military use. This strategy is designed to secure China’s trade and energy supply routes while expanding its geopolitical influence. Hambantota’s development under Chinese control exemplifies Beijing’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean and its economic and strategic ambitions.

1. Kyaukpyu, Myanmar

The Kyaukpyu Port, located on the western coast of Myanmar in Rakhine State, is a crucial component of China’s String of Pearls strategy, which aims to establish a network of strategically positioned maritime facilities across the Indian Ocean. A critical energy and trade hub providing China access to the Bay of Bengal. This strategy enhances China’s trade security, expands its regional influence, and counters the strategic presence of India and Western powers. The Kyaukpyu Port is a critical asset in China’s String of Pearls strategy, enhancing Beijing’s energy security, trade efficiency, and strategic presence in the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean.

1. Chittagong, Bangladesh

The Chittagong Port, located in Bangladesh, is a significant part of China’s String of Pearls strategy, which aims to establish a network of strategic ports and infrastructure projects across the Indian Ocean. A vital maritime location strengthening China’s economic ties in South Asia. This strategy helps China in securing its trade routes, expand its economic influence, and counter India’s regional dominance.

1. Maldives and Seychelles

The Maldives and Seychelles, two strategically located island nations in the Indian Ocean, play a crucial role in China’s String of Pearls strategy. Both nations, due to their strategic positions near critical sea lanes, have seen increasing Chinese investments in infrastructure and port development, raising geopolitical concerns. China is increasing its influence in these island nations. However, growing geopolitical competition, particularly from India and Western powers, is shaping a complex power struggle in the region. As China continues to expand its maritime presence, the role of Maldives and Seychelles in the evolving Indian Ocean security landscape will remain crucial. Emerging as strategic outposts for China’s naval influence in the Indian Ocean.

Strategic Importance of Ports in China’s “String of Pearls Strategy”

• Gawadar Port, Pakistan

Gwadar is situated near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which approximately 20% of global oil trade passes. By controlling or influencing this port, China gains a foothold in the Arabian Sea, allowing it to secure its vital energy imports from the Middle East and Africa. Gwadar serves as the gateway to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which connects it to China’s western Xinjiang province via highways, railways, and pipelines. This provides China with a shorter and more secure trade route, reducing its reliance on the Malacca Strait, a vulnerable point in China’s supply chain that could be blocked in times of conflict. India has its own strategic naval presence in the Indian Ocean, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and partnerships with the US, Japan, and Australia through the QUAD alliance.

By developing Gwadar as part of its String of Pearls, China enhances its ability to monitor Indian naval movements and maintain a strategic balance in the region. While officially it is a commercial project, there are concerns that Gwadar could serve dual purposes, supporting Chinese naval operations in the Indian Ocean. If China were to establish a military base in Gwadar, it would significantly extend its power projection capabilities and challenge Western and Indian dominance in the region. By investing heavily in Gwadar and other infrastructure projects under CPEC, China strengthens its political and economic influence over Pakistan. This dependence ensures that Pakistan remains a key ally in China’s broader strategic objectives.

• Hambantota Port, Sri Lanka

Hambantota is strategically positioned along major international shipping lanes, with over 60,000 ships passing through the nearby Indian Ocean trade routes annually. By controlling this port, China ensures a foothold near critical maritime chokepoints, including the Strait of Malacca and the Suez Canal, both vital for global trade and energy supplies. China’s interest in Hambantota aligns with its broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aimed at enhancing global trade connectivity. The port provides China with an alternative trans-shipment hub to reduce congestion at Colombo, Sri Lanka’s main port, and improve trade logistics. While Hambantota is officially a commercial port, concerns persist that it could serve dual military purposes, including logistics support for China’s navy. Given China’s growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean, this port could be transformed into a future People’s Liberation Army, China (PLA) Navy base, challenging Indian and Western dominance in the region. Sri Lanka struggled to repay its Chinese loans used for Hambantota’s development.

In 2017, the Sri Lankan government leased the port to China Merchants Port Holdings for 99 years in exchange for 1.12 billion dollars, effectively giving China significant control over the facility. This debt-trap scenario raised global concerns that China is using economic influence to gain long-term strategic advantages, a tactic that could be replicated in other nations involved in the BRI. As global competition for influence in the Indo-Pacific intensifies, Hambantota remains a symbol of China’s expanding maritime ambitions and the broader challenges of debt-trap diplomacy.

• Kyaukpyu Port, Myanmar

One of China’s biggest vulnerabilities is its dependence on the Malacca Strait, a narrow chokepoint through which nearly 80% of its oil imports pass. The Kyaukpyu Port offers an alternative route by providing direct access to the Indian Ocean, allowing China to transport oil and gas overland to Yunnan Province via the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC). This significantly reduces China’s reliance on the Malacca Strait, which could be blocked in times of geopolitical conflict.  The China-Myanmar Oil and Gas Pipelines, originating from Kyaukpyu, transport Middle Eastern and African crude oil and natural gas directly into China. This ensures a steady energy supply while reducing transportation costs and time. The Kyaukpyu Special Economic Zone (SEZ), part of the broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aims to boost regional trade and economic development, strengthening China’s economic presence in Myanmar. Kyaukpyu provides China with a naval foothold near the Bay of Bengal, a region of strategic importance due to India’s growing influence. Myanmar’s increasing economic reliance on China makes it more susceptible to Beijing’s strategic objectives, aligning with China’s broader efforts to expand influence across South Asia and Southeast Asia. As China continues to expand its maritime infrastructure across the Indian Ocean, Kyaukpyu’s role in Beijing’s long-term strategic ambitions will remain a key focus in the evolving power dynamics of the region.

• Chittagong Port, Bangladesh

Chittagong is Bangladesh’s largest and busiest seaport, handling over 90% of the country’s trade. Its location along the Bay of Bengal, near important maritime routes, makes it crucial for China’s regional trade and security strategy. China has invested in the modernization and expansion of Chittagong Port, providing financial and technical support to improve its capacity. Under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has also funded other critical infrastructure in Bangladesh, including roads, railways, and power plants, further integrating the country into Beijing’s economic orbit. China has proposed linking Chittagong to Kunming, Yunnan via roads, railways, and pipelines through Myanmar. This route would provide an alternative to the Malacca Strait, reducing China’s vulnerability to potential trade disruptions. Bangladesh has historically had strong ties with India, but China’s increasing economic engagement presents a strategic challenge to New Delhi. By strengthening its presence in Chittagong, China can counterbalance India’s influence in South Asia and the Bay of Bengal. If China were to establish a dual-use facility for both trade and military purposes, it could significantly alter the regional security dynamics. While Chittagong remains under Bangladeshi control, China’s deep involvement in its expansion highlights its growing footprint in South Asia. The Chittagong Port is a critical element in China’s String of Pearls strategy, enhancing Beijing’s economic and strategic position in the Indian Ocean. As Bangladesh navigates between China and India, Chittagong will continue to be a key battleground in the broader competition for influence in South Asia.

• Maldives and Seychelles

The Seychelles is located near vital maritime routes connecting Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. A Chinese presence in Seychelles would enhance its ability to project power in the western Indian Ocean and protect its energy supply routes from Africa. China has built port facilities, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure in Seychelles, increasing its economic footprint. The Victoria Port, the main port in Seychelles, has seen Chinese-funded upgrades, raising concerns about potential future Chinese naval access. While China has not established a permanent military base in Seychelles, there have been speculations that port facilities could be used for PLA Navy logistics support in the future. This has led to counteractions from India, France, and the United States, which have strengthened their security partnerships with Seychelles.

Implications for India

1. Strategic Encirclement and Security Challenges

One of India’s primary concerns is the potential for strategic encirclement, often referred to as China’s “Cabbage Strategy”. With Chinese-controlled or influenced ports surrounding India’s maritime borders, New Delhi faces increasing geopolitical pressure. The presence of dual-use ports, capable of supporting both commercial and military operations, threatens India’s naval supremacy in the region. The String of Pearls refers to China’s strategic efforts to establish a network of military and commercial facilities across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). This strategy aims to enhance China’s geopolitical influence and secure its energy and trade routes. However, this move has significant security implications for India, raising concerns about strategic encirclement. China has deepened ties with India’s neighbours (Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka), reducing India’s regional influence. Increasing Chinese military presence in these nations could result in a two-front military challenge for India (with Pakistan and China). Nepal and Bhutan, once firmly under India’s sphere of influence, are witnessing growing Chinese economic and strategic engagement. India’s naval dominance in the Indian Ocean is under threat due to increased Chinese warships, submarines, and surveillance vessels. China has deployed nuclear and conventional submarines under the pretext of anti-piracy operations.

Growing Chinese presence near India’s Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep challenges India’s strategic hold over the Indian Ocean. Chinese satellites, spy ships, and electronic warfare assets in the IOR can track India’s naval and military activities. Potential use of Chinese-controlled ports for listening posts and intelligence gathering. Cybersecurity threats as China expands digital and telecom infrastructure in India’s neighbourhood. Beijing has supplied Islamabad with submarines, fighter jets, and missile technology, directly threatening New Delhi’s security. Development of the Gwadar naval base could lead to a joint China-Pakistan naval presence near India’s western coast. The possibility of China using Pakistan’s coastline for military operations against India remains a significant concern. China’s control over strategic chokepoints like the Malacca Strait could disrupt India’s energy supply. The dominance of Chinese-built ports in South Asia could divert trade away from Indian ports, affecting India’s economic security. A possible Chinese naval blockade in a future conflict could cripple India’s economy.

2. Threat to India’s Energy Security

The Indian Ocean is vital for India’s energy imports, with around 80% of its oil imports passing through key sea lanes. China’s growing presence in the region increases the risk of strategic blockades or disruptions in the event of geopolitical tensions, affecting India’s energy security and economic stability. India’s energy security is heavily dependent on maritime trade, with over 80% of its crude oil imports passing through critical sea routes in the Indian Ocean. China’s String of Pearls strategy is establishing strategic ports, naval bases, and infrastructure across South Asia-poses a direct threat to India’s energy supply chains. By securing key chokepoints and building influence over India’s neighbouring countries, China gains leverage to disrupt, control, or influence India’s energy imports in case of geopolitical tensions or conflict. India imports over 85% of its crude oil from the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Most of these imports pass through the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and critical chokepoints like the Strait of Malacca. Any disruption in these routes can severely impact India’s energy availability and economy. Strait of Malacca handles 40% of India’s crude oil imports; any blockade by China could cripple supply. Strait of Hormuz is India’s source over 60% of its oil from the Persian Gulf; China’s growing ties with Iran and Gulf nations could affect India’s access. Sunda and Lombok Straits are alternative routes that China could potentially influence through its naval presence in the Indo-Pacific. China has invested in ports and naval facilities in Gwadar (Pakistan), Hambantota (Sri Lanka), and Kyaukpyu (Myanmar), placing India’s energy routes under surveillance.

These ports can be militarized to monitor or disrupt Indian oil tankers during crises. In a conflict scenario, China could deploy warships and submarines in the IOR to restrict India’s energy imports. Chinese submarines have already been spotted in Sri Lanka’s and Pakistan’s ports, raising concerns over their ability to conduct blockades or coercive naval operations. Gwadar Port (Pakistan), developed by China, is close to the Strait of Hormuz is a crucial route for India’s oil imports. China’s deepening military ties with Iran could allow Beijing to influence oil flows from the Persian Gulf is indirectly affecting India’s access to Iranian and Gulf oil. China’s investments in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar mean that these countries may side with China in future conflicts, limiting India’s ability to use their ports for emergency energy imports. A sudden disruption in oil supply would lead to rising fuel prices, inflation, and economic slowdown. Industries dependent on crude oil (transportation, power, manufacturing) would face severe disruptions. India’s strategic oil reserves can only sustain the country for nine-ten days in case of a supply cut-off. Any delayed oil shipments could impact defence preparedness, affecting naval, air force, and army operations. If China restricts access to Middle Eastern oil, India may need to depend more on Russia, the U.S., or African nations. This could lead to higher costs and logistical challenges in securing energy.

3. Influence Over India’s Neighbourhood Countries

China’s investments in India’s neighbours, particularly Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, have strengthened Beijing’s diplomatic and economic influence. This limits India’s regional manoeuvrability and could lead to a shift in regional alliances, potentially isolating New Delhi in its own backyard. Developed under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), giving China direct access to the Arabian Sea. It can be used as a military base, providing China a naval foothold near India’s western coastline. Leased to China for 99 years after Sri Lanka failed to repay Chinese loans. Potential for dual-use (commercial and military), allowing Chinese warships to dock near India’s southern coast. China has heavily invested in Colombo Port City, highways, and power projects, deepening its economic grip. Sri Lanka’s financial dependence on China limits its ability to align with India. China has invested in modernizing these ports, increasing its foothold near India’s eastern coast. China is Bangladesh’s largest trade partner, with over ten billion dollars in annual trade. Major investments in roads, bridges, and power plants give China leverage in Bangladesh’s economy. China has supplied Bangladesh with submarines, missile systems, and warships, boosting its naval power. China’s rising military cooperation could shift Bangladesh away from India’s security sphere. Economic dependency on China reduces Dhaka’s diplomatic alignment with New Delhi. China has secured Kyaukpyu Port to bypass the Malacca Strait and access the Bay of Bengal.

Increased Chinese intelligence-gathering in the Bay of Bengal threatens India’s eastern maritime security. China’s presence in Myanmar challenges India’s influence over its north-eastern states. Possible military bases in Myanmar could threaten India’s Andaman & Nicobar Islands. China has invested in roads, railways, and hydropower projects in Nepal. Nepal-China Trans-Himalayan Railway could reduce Nepal’s reliance on India for trade. China has increased diplomatic and military exchanges, limiting Nepal’s dependence on India. China’s influence over Nepal could encourage anti-India sentiments and policies. China has built roads, bridges, and maritime infrastructure, increasing its presence near India’s western coastline. Potential Chinese naval bases could undermine India’s dominance in the Indian Ocean. Maldives’ growing ties with China challenge India’s traditional strategic influence.

4. Challenges for India’s Naval Strategy

India’s naval doctrine traditionally focuses on securing the Indian Ocean. However, China’s expanding footprint in the region forces India to recalibrate its naval strategy. The Indian Navy has increased its presence in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and strengthened maritime partnerships with the U.S., Japan, and Australia through the Quad alliance. China’s control over key ports in Pakistan (Gwadar), Sri Lanka (Hambantota), and Myanmar (Kyaukpyu) creates an encirclement scenario for India. India risks losing strategic autonomy in its own backyard, as China strengthens its naval power projection in the Indian Ocean. The presence of Chinese warships and submarines near Indian waters challenges India’s operational freedom. The Indian Ocean is crucial for India’s trade and energy security, with over 80% of its oil imports coming through this region. China’s growing influence over maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Malacca, Sunda Strait, and Lombok Strait poses a risk to India’s uninterrupted trade flow. The potential militarization of Chinese-built ports in Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Myanmar could restrict India’s naval movement in critical areas. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has grown rapidly, with over 350 warships, including aircraft carriers, submarines, and destroyers, making it the world’s largest navy. China’s modern naval assets, including nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers, pose a direct challenge to India’s relatively smaller navy. India lags behind China in defence technology, including carrier strike capabilities, underwater warfare, and anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) systems.

China has deployed nuclear and conventional submarines in the Indian Ocean under the pretext of anti-piracy operations. Chinese intelligence-gathering ships and underwater drones threaten India’s maritime security and submarine movements. PLAN’s ability to monitor Indian naval bases and movements could weaken India’s strategic deterrence capabilities. China’s increasing presence in Myanmar (Kyaukpyu Port) and Sri Lanka (Hambantota) brings its military closer to India’s island territories. China is expanding its naval partnerships with India’s neighbours, supplying warships, submarines, and military technology to Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Pakistan’s Gwadar Port and its increasing naval cooperation with China pose a two-front naval challenge for India (Arabian Sea & Indian Ocean). Chinese defence engagements with Sri Lanka and Maldives could result in future naval bases closer to India’s coastline.

5. Geopolitical Tensions

China’s String of Pearls strategy refers to its efforts to establish a network of commercial and military assets across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). This strategy is perceived as an attempt to encircle India and increase China’s influence in South Asia. The development of ports, bases, and other strategic infrastructure in countries surrounding India has led to geopolitical tensions between the two Asian giants. India perceives the String of Pearls as an attempt at strategic encirclement, limiting India’s influence in its traditional sphere. China’s growing military presence in the Indian Ocean threatens India’s security and freedom of navigation. China’s String of Pearls strategy presents significant geopolitical challenges for India, influencing security, regional diplomacy, and economic policies. While India has taken measures to counterbalance China’s influence, the competition in the Indian Ocean is expected to intensify. India’s response will require a combination of military, economic, and diplomatic strategies to maintain regional stability and safeguard its interests.

6. Sovereignty Concerns

China’s String of Pearls strategy poses significant sovereignty concerns for India. By developing ports, military bases, and economic influence in neighbouring countries, China has created an environment where India’s strategic autonomy and regional dominance are challenged. These developments directly affect India’s national security, maritime interests, and foreign policy decisions. China’s increasing presence in the IOR raises fears of strategic encirclement, limiting India’s manoeuvrability in its own region. Close Chinese ties with Pakistan (Gwadar Port) heighten concerns about potential military cooperation that could affect India’s security in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. China’s naval expansion near Indian waters poses a direct challenge to India’s dominance in the Indian Ocean. Potential militarization of Chinese raises concerns about the use of these facilities for surveillance and military operations against India. The possibility of Chinese-backed governments in India’s neighbourhood could result in policies that challenge India’s national security and diplomatic stance. China’s satellite monitoring stations and military bases in the Indian Ocean could be used to track Indian naval movements. There are concerns that Chinese-controlled ports could serve as intelligence-gathering hubs for surveillance on Indian military activities. The deployment of Chinese submarines and drones in the IOR threatens India’s ability to conduct secure maritime operations.

7. Economic and Trade Impact

China’s String of Pearls strategy has significant economic and trade implications for India. As China strengthens its presence in South Asia, India’s economic influence in its neighbourhood is being challenged, affecting trade routes, market access, investment opportunities, and overall regional economic stability. The Indian Ocean is crucial for India’s trade, with nearly 90% of its trade by volume and 70% by value passing through it. China’s growing influence over strategic ports like Gwadar, Hambantota, and Kyaukpyu threatens India’s unrestricted access to critical trade routes. Potential Chinese control over chokepoints like the Strait of Malacca (which handles 80% of China’s energy imports) could lead to disruptions in India’s energy and goods supply. China’s massive infrastructure investments in neighbouring countries under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) overshadow India’s own trade and economic ties. Indian businesses face tough competition from Chinese investments in countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, where China provides loans, infrastructure, and economic aid. With Chinese-backed projects dominating South Asia, India’s ability to maintain trade partnerships and regional supply chains is weakening.

China’s investments in ports, highways, and railways in South Asia mean that it controls key logistics networks in India’s neighbouring countries. Gwadar Port (Pakistan) could be used to divert regional trade away from Indian ports, affecting India’s maritime economy. China’s investments in the Bay of Bengal region could reduce India’s influence in the BIMSTEC trade bloc. India already faces a huge trade deficit with China, importing over Hundred billion dollars’ worth of goods annually while exporting far less. China’s economic expansion in South Asia increases the availability of cheap Chinese goods, making it harder for Indian products to compete. Dependence on Chinese technology and machinery for industrial production increases India’s economic vulnerability.

India’s Countermeasures

To counterbalance China’s String of Pearls, India has adopted a multi-pronged approach:

• Diplomacy and Dialogue

Engaging in high-level diplomatic talks with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and the Maldives to offer alternatives to Chinese investments, expanding trade and security cooperation to ensure these countries are not overly dependent on China, negotiating long-term partnerships for infrastructure development, military cooperation, and economic aid to balance Chinese influence. Strengthening India’s leadership in regional organizations such as: BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation), IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association), SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations).

Using these platforms to promote an inclusive and rules-based maritime order while highlighting China’s debt-trap diplomacy. Enhancing diplomatic engagements with the QUAD (India, US, Japan, Australia) to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. Expanding partnerships with France, the UK, and ASEAN countries to counterbalance China’s maritime expansion. Advocating for freedom of navigation and sovereignty protections in multilateral discussions, directly challenging China’s territorial ambitions. Strengthening engagement with the United Nations, G20, and World Trade Organization (WTO) to ensure that China’s maritime and trade practices align with international norms. Actively supporting the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to counter China’s aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. Encouraging regional dispute resolution mechanisms to prevent China from exploiting maritime conflicts. Proposing transparent and sustainable financial aid as an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), preventing smaller nations from falling into China’s debt-trap diplomacy. Keeping channels of communication open with Beijing while asserting India’s regional interests. Holding regular dialogues on border disputes, maritime security, and economic relations to avoid unnecessary conflicts. Using diplomacy to prevent further militarization of the Indian Ocean and promote peaceful coexistence. India’s diplomatic and dialogue-driven approach is key to countering China’s String of Pearls strategy without escalating military tensions. By strengthening regional alliances, leveraging multilateral forums, engaging with the QUAD, promoting a rules-based maritime order, and offering alternative economic partnerships, India can effectively challenge China’s expansionist moves and secure its strategic interests.

• Necklace of Diamonds Strategy

India has developed strategic partnerships with countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and Japan to counter China’s influence. Ports like Chabahar in Iran serve as an alternative trade route, reducing dependence on Chinese-controlled chokepoints.

India’s Necklace of Diamonds strategy involves strengthening its naval presence, regional partnerships, and military alliances to counter China’s influence. India is reinforcing its presence at key locations to monitor Chinese naval movements and protect critical sea lanes like Andaman & Nicobar Islands which provides strategic oversight of the Malacca Strait, a crucial chokepoint for Chinese trade. Lakshadweep Islands for enhancing security in the western Indian Ocean. Chabahar Port (Iran) which offers an alternative trade route bypassing China’s Gwadar Port. Sabang Port (Indonesia), in partnering with Indonesia to strengthen India’s access to Southeast Asia. Duqm Port (Oman) for securing maritime logistics and enhancing naval access in the Arabian Sea. Assumption Island (Seychelles) & Agaléga Island (Mauritius) for strengthening Indian naval presence in the western Indian Ocean. These locations neutralize China’s influence by ensuring India’s dominance over crucial sea lanes.

India is deepening military ties with key partners to enhance regional security and counterbalance China like QUAD (India, US, Japan, Australia) for conducting naval exercises like Malabar to boost interoperability. France and the Indian Ocean Islands for strengthening cooperation with Reunion Island and the French naval presence in the region. Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines through providing defence equipment and training to counter Chinese aggression in the South China Sea. Australia and Japan for expanding logistical agreements for joint naval operations. By engaging in joint military exercises, intelligence-sharing, and logistical partnerships, India enhances its regional influence and counters Chinese military expansion.

India is using “Economic Diplomacy” and “Infrastructure Investments” to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): Promoting alternative connectivity projects in South Asia and the Indian Ocean to prevent Chinese debt-trap diplomacy. Strengthening trade and infrastructure partnerships with Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Africa. By investing in transparent and sustainable economic projects, India ensures that smaller nations have alternatives to China’s economic influence. India’s Necklace of Diamonds strategy effectively counters China’s String of Pearls by securing strategic bases, strengthening military alliances, enhancing economic cooperation, and leading diplomatic efforts. By reinforcing its maritime presence and regional partnerships, India ensures a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific, preventing Chinese encirclement and protecting its national interests.

• Strengthening Regional Alliances

India has deepened military and economic ties with ASEAN nations, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and QUAD partners (US, Japan, and Australia) to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. For Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar India must offer strategic alternatives to China’s investments by increasing economic aid, trade agreements, and infrastructure development. India can work on enhancing defence partnerships, joint military exercises, and intelligence-sharing. India needs to ensure transparent and sustainable financing models to counter China’s debt-driven projects. Maldives and Seychelles-strengthening maritime security cooperation to prevent Chinese naval influence. By deepening economic and security ties with its neighbours, India can reduce their reliance on China and maintain regional stability. QUAD (India, US, Japan, Australia) is a crucial alliance to counter China’s assertiveness in the Indian Ocean. India must increase joint naval exercises (Malabar Exercise) to boost military interoperability, strengthen maritime domain awareness and intelligence-sharing to track Chinese naval movements, expand defence technology collaboration to counterbalance China’s military capabilities.

India’s best counter to China’s String of Pearls strategy is to strengthen regional alliances through defence cooperation, economic engagement, and diplomatic leadership. By deepening ties with South Asian neighbours, leveraging QUAD, engaging ASEAN, leading IORA, and expanding military agreements, India can safeguard its strategic interests and ensure a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific.

• Enhancing Naval Capabilities

India is investing in expanding its naval fleet, including aircraft carriers, submarines, and maritime surveillance systems to maintain dominance in the Indian Ocean. To maintain dominance in the Indian Ocean, India must expand and modernize its naval fleet, including Aircraft Carriers like INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya provide India with carrier-based strike capabilities. A third carrier would enhance India’s ability to project power. India is expanding its Destroyers and Frigates and the Visakhapatnam-class and Shivalik-class warships to strengthen surface combat capability. India is increasing the Arihant-class nuclear submarines to deter Chinese naval aggression. Conventional Submarines-expanding the Kalvari-class (Scorpene) submarines to enhance underwater warfare capabilities. India started investing in AI-based unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) to improve maritime surveillance. A larger and technologically advanced navy will ensure India’s dominance over critical sea lanes. Deploying P-8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft for enhanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and intelligence gathering. Expanding the Coastal Radar Network across the Indian Ocean to track Chinese naval movements, strengthening space-based satellite surveillance for real-time maritime domain awareness. By enhancing surveillance, India can track and counter Chinese naval activities in real time.

To counter China’s expanding presence, India is developing strategic naval bases at Andaman and Nicobar Islands for overlooking the Malacca Strait, which is a key chokepoint for Chinese trade, strengthening India’s western maritime security Lakshadweep Islands, Duqm Port (Oman) is providing India a logistical base near the Arabian Sea, Chabahar Port (Iran)-countering China’s Gwadar Port influence, Agaléga Island (Mauritius) and Assumption Island (Seychelles) is strengthening India’s naval reach in the western Indian Ocean. Securing forward bases and naval logistics hubs will allow India to project power across the Indian Ocean. ASEAN Nations are conducting joint maritime patrols and security cooperation. India is strengthening naval partnerships for logistics and intelligence in Africa & Gulf Nations. Deploying advanced sonar systems and torpedoes for underwater threat detection. Enhancing ASW helicopters (MH-60R Seahawks) to counter Chinese submarines. Expanding India’s underwater sensor network to detect hostile submarines near Indian waters. By bolstering ASW capabilities, India can neutralize the growing Chinese submarine threat. Increasing the Navy’s ability to operate far from Indian shores through fleet expansion. Strengthening expeditionary warfare capabilities for rapid deployment in crisis situations. Enhancing logistics and replenishment vessels to sustain long-range naval operations. A blue-water navy will allow India to effectively counter China’s power projection in the Indian Ocean.

• Re-examine “The One China Policy”

While India has respected China’s territorial claims, Beijing has consistently undermined Indian sovereignty by supporting Pakistan on Kashmir, engaging in border aggression in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, and opposing India’s membership in global organizations. A one-sided commitment to the One China Policy no longer serves India’s interests. As China exerts pressure on India, New Delhi should enhance economic and strategic ties with Taiwan, including cooperation in semiconductor technology and trade. Strengthening diplomatic engagements would send a strong signal to Beijing. China’s control over Tibet has direct security implications for India. Recognizing the importance of Tibet’s autonomy and supporting the Tibetan government-in-exile could counter China’s influence in the Himalayan region. If China refuses to respect India’s territorial integrity, there is little reason for India to continue honouring China’s claims without reciprocal recognition of its own interests. By questioning the One China Policy, India would gain leverage in future negotiations with Beijing.

India must move beyond symbolic diplomacy and adopt a pragmatic approach toward China. A reassessment of the One China Policy, combined with deeper engagements with Taiwan, Tibet, and Indo-Pacific allies, will be essential to counter China’s String of Pearls strategy. India should make it clear that respect is mutual-if China wants India to acknowledge its territorial claims, it must also reciprocate by respecting India’s sovereignty and security concerns.

• QUAD Cooperation

Conducting more frequent joint naval exercises like the Malabar Exercise to enhance coordination among QUAD navies. Expanding maritime domain awareness with real-time intelligence sharing on Chinese movements in the Indian Ocean. Increasing patrols in strategic choke points, such as the Malacca Strait and Andaman Sea, to monitor Chinese naval activities. Enhancing military presence in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to monitor Chinese movements. Investing in regional ports like Chabahar (Iran) and Sabang (Indonesia) as countermeasures to China’s influence. QUAD is expanding joint naval exercises like Malabar to counter China’s presence. France-increasing naval cooperation in the western Indian Ocean through Reunion Island. Collaborating with QUAD nations on infrastructure development in the Indo-Pacific to offer alternatives to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Strengthening defence ties with QUAD partners through agreements like the BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement) with the US for geospatial intelligence. Promoting joint military production and procurement with Japan and Australia to reduce dependence on Chinese technology.

• Regional Security Cooperation

Conducting joint naval patrols and military exercises with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Indonesia, and the Maldives to enhance maritime security. Expanding India’s naval presence at key chokepoints like the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Strait of Malacca to monitor Chinese activities. Establishing real-time intelligence-sharing agreements with regional partners to track Chinese naval movements. Strengthening military ties with Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, offering defence equipment and training to counter China’s influence. Expanding military logistics agreements with countries like Australia, Japan, and France, allowing Indian naval ships access to their bases. Increasing defence technology collaboration with ASEAN nations to build indigenous military capabilities. Investing in Chabahar Port (Iran) as an alternative trade route bypassing China’s Gwadar. Partnering with Indonesia (Sabang Port) and Oman (Duqm Port) to establish India-friendly naval footholds. Promoting infrastructure development in the Indian Ocean region to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Promoting regional trade alliances such as IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) to reduce economic dependence on China. Playing a more active role in ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. Deepening cooperation with Middle Eastern and African nations, preventing Chinese dominance in their maritime and trade networks.

• Economic Engagement

Expanding trade agreements with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal to offer alternatives to Chinese investments. Promoting regional economic forums like BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative) to enhance trade and infrastructure development. Reducing non-tariff barriers and enhancing connectivity with neighbouring countries to boost economic interdependence. Increasing investment in Chabahar Port (Iran) as a key gateway for trade with Central Asia, bypassing China’s influence. Supporting Sabang Port (Indonesia) and Duqm Port (Oman) to develop strategic economic and trade hubs. Developing high-quality infrastructure projects in Africa and the Indian Ocean region as alternatives to China’s debt-driven projects. Deepening trade agreements with ASEAN, Japan, South Korea, and Australia to counterbalance China’s dominance in regional trade. Promoting the “Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI)” with Japan and Australia to reduce dependence on Chinese manufacturing. Encouraging joint economic initiatives in Southeast Asia to offer an alternative to Chinese investments.

Expanding India’s role as a global manufacturing hub under “Make in India” to attract businesses looking to diversify away from China. Expanding trade and energy partnerships with Gulf countries and African nations to reduce China’s influence. Promoting Indian businesses in Africa’s infrastructure, healthcare, and digital sectors, offering an alternative to Chinese investments. Enhancing India-Africa cooperation through economic aid and capacity-building projects. Using institutions like EXIM Bank of India and Lines of Credit to fund infrastructure projects in strategic nations. Expanding collaboration with global financial institutions like the World Bank and ADB to provide transparent, sustainable financing options. Creating an India-led development financing initiative to offer alternatives to China’s high-interest loans. India’s economic strategy is key to countering China’s String of Pearls.

Conclusion

China’s String of Pearls strategy poses significant geopolitical challenges for India, reshaping power dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region. While China aims to secure its energy routes and expand its influence, India perceives this as an attempt at encirclement. In response, New Delhi is actively enhancing its maritime security, strengthening regional alliances, and countering China’s growing footprint through strategic and economic initiatives. The evolving nature of this competition underscores the importance of diplomatic engagement and strategic foresight in maintaining regional stability and safeguarding India’s national interests.

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