Course Contents

• Geopolitics: Introduction to geopolitics, classical and modern approaches • Indian Ocean: Geo-political features and setting of Indian ocean (geographical profile of IOR states • An analysis of old and new great game • Naval Powers in the Indian Ocean: Challenges, options and contemporary issues: China, USA, Pakistan, India, USA, Iran and other Regional Powers • Energy in the Indian Ocean Region: Vital Features and as source of competition • Trade and Commerce through Indian Ocean • Countering Piracy, Trafficking, and Terrorism: Ensuring Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean • Natural Resources in the Indian Ocean: Fisheries and Minerals • Environmental Pressures in the Indian Ocean

Course Synopsis

Indian Ocean, the third largest ocean of the world, has gained tremendous importance over the years and has now become Geo politically the most concentrated area where global economic activity conjoined political interests. It is a home to world’s busiest waterways and choke points such as the Suez Canal, Bab al-Mandeb, Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca. All these choke points and waterways are highly important for the rising nations of the world. This is why world’s major economic as well as political concentration has shifted towards the Asian and African continents which border Indian Ocean at large. This course aims to unveil the emerging economic and Geopolitical significance of Indian Ocean. In addition to it, it would enable to understand the concept of geopolitics with a broad understanding of the nature of geopolitics, major conflicts and security concerns in the Indian Ocean.

Course Learning Outcomes

This course entails a contemporary political, economic and strategic analysis of Indian Ocean rim and its littoral states. After the completion of this course, students would be able analyze the issues, challenges and strategic opportunities and constraints in Indian ocean region.