Why in the news?

  • ICG Ship Sarthakmakes first port call at Iran’s Chabahar port and visit is aligned with India’s SAGAR and MAHASAGAR vision.

Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR Vision)

  • What is it?: It is India’s maritime doctrine for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) launched in 2015.
  • Aim: It emphasizes that India’s own security and prosperity are deeply linked to the security and prosperity of its neighbors.
  • Main Pillars
    • Security: Strengthening the maritime security of India and its neighbors through joint patrolling and information sharing.
    • Capacity Building: Assisting smaller nations with equipment, training, and infrastructure (e.g., gifting patrol vessels to Mauritius and Maldives).
    • Blue Economy: Promoting sustainable use of ocean resources, fisheries, and port-led development.
    • Disaster Response: Positioning India as a “First Responder” (e.g., Mission SAGAR during the COVID-19 pandemic provided food and medical aid to island nations).

MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions)

  • What is it?: It is expanded version of  SAGAR launched by India in 2025.
  • Aim: It shifts from a regional focus to a Global South perspective.
  • Pillars
    • Trade for development via technology-sharing, capacity building through infrastructure and education.
    • Mutual security via joint exercises and defense ties.

Key Differences

  • Geographical Expansion: Moves beyond the IOR to include the wider Indo-Pacific and stronger ties with African littorals.
  • Holistic Approach: Integrates technology transfer, renewable energy, and climate change resilience alongside traditional security.
  • Global South Leadership: Positions India as a champion for developing nations in maritime governance, seeking “Regional Solutions to Regional Problems.”
  • Flagship Initiatives: * AIKEYME: The Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise.

Source: The Hindu