The Sir Creek Dispute: A Geopolitical Flashpoint in the India-Pakistan Maritime Theatre
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (India-Pakistan relations); Geography of India and the World (Map Locations - Sir Creek, Rann of Kutch, Mundra Port, Kandla Port; Geographical features - Estuary, Marshland).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations): India and its neighborhood- relations. Sir Creek is a classic example of an unresolved border dispute with Pakistan.
General Studies Paper 3 (Internal Security): Security challenges and their management in border areas (maritime and coastal security).
Key Highlights from the News
India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh issued a strong warning against Pakistan's military infrastructure buildup in the Sir Creek region, a disputed area between India and Pakistan.
Sir Creek is an uninhabited marshland located between Gujarat in India and Sindh in Pakistan.
Reasons why this region is strategically important for India:
Potential for oil and gas exploration.
Extensive fishing rights.
Proximity to major ports like Kandla and Mundra.
Recent use of drones by Pakistan in this area suggests it could become a new front for conflict.
Chinese-backed mining and energy projects on the Pakistani side of this region increase India's security concerns.
The article advises India to proceed cautiously, prioritizing diplomacy and avoiding military provocations on this issue.
COMMENTS