IAS/UPSC Coaching Institute  

22 Mar 2025 : Charting a route for IORA under India’s chairship

Editorial 2: Charting a route for IORA under India’s chairship 

Context

New Delhi must strengthen the foundation for meaningful and ground-level governance.

 

Introduction

The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) is a top regional group that encourages cooperation among countries in Asia, Africa, and Australia connected by the Indian Ocean. India, currently the Vice-Chair, will take over as Chair in November 2025. During its two-year leadership, India will focus on three main goals: increasing funding for IORA, using technology for better data and policy-making, and developing maritime-related courses through academic collaborations.

 

The Indian Ocean Region and IORA

  • Region: The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is part of the Indo-Pacific but has unique importance.
  • Population: Home to two-thirds of the world's people, with rich marine life.
  • Trade: Handles 75% of global trade and 50% of daily oil supply.
  • Economy: Contributes $1 trillion in goods/services; intra-IORA trade was $800 billion in 2023.
  • Challenges: Faces underdevelopment, political instability, climate disasters, and environmental damage.
  • Security: Threatened by piracy, terrorism, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.
  • Cooperation: Countries must work together to solve regional issues.
  • IORA’s Role: Promotes cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and disaster management.
  • Global Partners: U.S., China, and EU are dialogue partners, but IORA is mainly led by middle and small powers.
  • Relevance: Needs stronger efforts to become more influential.

 

Issues faced by IORA

Key issues

  

Great Power Competition

The Indian Ocean region is mostly free from major power rivalries but faces its own challenges.

Funding Challenge

IORA’s budget depends on member contributions, which are limited.

Member Economies

Apart from Singapore, UAE, and France, most IORA members are developing Asian and African countries.

Budget Size

Estimated to be just a few million dollars, much smaller than the $1.3 billion budget of the Indian Ocean Commission (2020-25).

Funding Gap

Insufficient funds hinder IORA’s work in maritime security, fisheries, disaster management, technology, and the blue economy.

Resource-Intensive Areas

Each of these focus areas requires continuous investment and engagement.

Private Sector Involvement

Businesses in shipping, oil & gas, and marine tourism could become consultative partners and contribute to IORA’s funds.

Maritime Policy Input

Private industry can play a role in shaping maritime policies while supporting funding.

Secretariat & Staffing

IORA operates with a small Secretariat in Mauritius, with limited staff and resources.

Technology in Governance

Digitization can improve data management, policy analysis, and reduce errors in record-keeping.

 

Other suggestions for India

  • India’s Security and Growth for All (SAGAR) vision aligns with the objectives of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).
  • To maximize its potential, India should leverage its strong ties with IORA member states to develop effective solutions for regional challenges.

 

IORA Members' Contributions to Marine Science & Technology

Country

Key Contribution

Australia

Leading research in marine science and technology

France & Singapore

Strong capabilities in marine-related technologies

UAE & Oman

Potential investors in key marine sectors

Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Mauritius

Rich in traditional knowledge for sustainable marine governance
  • Action Needed: Traditional knowledge from coastal and island nations should be mainstreamed for sustainable marine governance.
    • IORA must establish sustained and improved collaborative frameworks for better outcomes.

 

Strengthening Marine and Maritime-Related Employment

  • The marine and maritime sectors will continue to expand, creating new employment opportunities.
  • Industrial leaders must:
    • Collaborate with educational and research institutions.
    • Provide real-world problem statements for research and innovation.
    • Develop industry-relevant courses.

Proposed Initiative

Purpose

Marine Accounting Course

Establish a foundation for the blue economy

Industry-Academia Collaboration

Enhance skill development and innovation in maritime sectors

 

Conclusion

India’s upcoming chairship of IORA presents a crucial opportunity to strengthen regional governance, enhance funding, and integrate technology for better policy-making. By fostering private sector participation, promoting collaboration, and addressing institutional challenges, India can drive IORA toward greater relevance, ensuring sustainable development, security, and economic growth in the Indian Ocean Region.