Ajay Kumar (talk | contribs) Created a new article |
m added references |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{Infobox bilateral relations|India-Maldives|India|Maldives}} | {{Infobox bilateral relations|India-Maldives|India|Maldives|envoytitle1=[[High Commissioner]]|envoytitle2=[[High Commissioner]]|envoy1=Shri Munu Mahawar|envoy2=[[Aishath Azeema]]|mission1=[[High Commission of India, Malé]]|mission2=[[High Commission of the Maldives, New Delhi]]}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2014}} | {{Use dmy dates|date=May 2014}} | ||
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2016}} | {{Use Indian English|date=June 2016}} | ||
[[India]] and [[Maldives]] are neighbours sharing a maritime border | [[India]] and [[Maldives]] are neighbours sharing a maritime border.<ref name="G">{{cite web |title=China – India relations |url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0176) |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090110125122/http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0176) |archive-date=10 January 2009 |access-date=5 June 2008 |publisher=[[Library of Congress]] Country Studies}}</ref><ref name="CFR">{{Cite news |last=Aryasinha |first=Ravinatha |title=Maldives, Sri Lanka and the "India Factor" |url=http://www.himalmag.com/97mar/cov-mal.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080529195009/http://www.himalmag.com/97mar/cov-mal.htm |archive-date=29 May 2008 |access-date=5 June 2008 |work=Himal South Asia Magazine}}</ref> [[India]] continues to contribute to [[Indian Armed Forces|maintaining security]] as well as providing financial aid on the island nation.<ref name="CFR"/><ref name="VA3">{{cite book |author=Devin T. Hagerty |title=South Asia in World Politics |pages=102–103|publisher=Rowman and Littlefield |year=2005 |isbn=0-7425-2587-2}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=India extends financial assistance of 100 million US dollars to Maldives |url=https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?title=India-extends-financial-assistance-of-100-million-US-dollars-to-Maldives&id=451540 |access-date=2023-07-21 |work=All India Radio News}}</ref> | ||
However, tensions have increased as [[President of the Maldives]] [[Mohamed Muizzu]] has imposed an "India-Out" campaign and the country is deepening ties with [[China]]. Along with this, recent incidents of ministers of the Maldives insulting the islands of [[Lakshadweep]] and the [[Prime Minister of India]], [[Narendra Modi]], have heightened tensions. | |||
It represents India's second-largest ongoing plantation infrastructure endeavor, following the $500 million Greater Malé Project. The [[Greater Malé Connectivity Project|Greater Malé Project]] aims to link the capital with three adjacent highlands through a 6.74-kilometer-long sea bridge.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Nanda |first=Prakash |date=3 May 2023 |title=India 'Shadowboxes' China In The Maldives; Looks To Knock Out Chinese Challenge In The Indian Ocean Nation |url=https://www.eurasiantimes.com/india-shadowboxes-china-in-the-maldives-looks-to-knock/ |access-date=22 September 2023 |work=The EurAsian Times}}</ref> | |||
Both India and the Maldives are [[republics in the Commonwealth of Nations]]. | |||
India has a High Commission in [[Malé]], and the Maldives has a High Commission in [[New Delhi]]. | |||
In July 2025, [[India]] and the [[Maldives]] revitalised ties with a USD 565 million line of credit from India to support Maldivian infrastructure projects. The two sides also agreed to reduce the [[Maldives]]’ annual debt repayment to India by 40% and signed six cooperation pacts in areas including fisheries, digital infrastructure, and health. Talks between [[Narendra Modi|Prime Minister Narendra Modi]] and President Mohamed [[Mohamed Muizzu|Muizzu]] marked a thaw in relations following earlier tensions, with both leaders committing to stronger economic and defence cooperation. Key developments included progress on a free trade agreement, promotion of digital payment systems like UPI, and the inauguration of [[India]]-assisted projects. The renewed [[partnership]] was positioned as crucial for regional peace and [[Indian Ocean]] stability.<ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/india-announces-rs-4-850-cr-loc-for-maldives-modi-says-ties-between-two-neighbours-as-deep-as-ocean-13329110.html}}</ref> | |||
== History == | == History == | ||
Maldives is located south of India's [[Lakshadweep Islands]] in the Indian Ocean. Both nations established diplomatic relations after the independence of Maldives from [[British Empire|British rule]] in | {{Main | History of Maldives | Buddhism in South Asia | Minicoy#History | l2 = Minicoy history | British Raj }} | ||
Maldives is located south of India's [[Lakshadweep Islands]] in the Indian Ocean. Both nations established diplomatic relations after the independence of Maldives from [[British Empire|British rule]] in 1965.<ref name="G"/> [[India]] was one of the first nations to recognise [[Maldives]]' independence.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Malone|first1=David M|title=Does the Elephant Dance?: Contemporary Indian Foreign Policy|date=30 August 2012 |publisher=Oxford|isbn=9780199661275}}</ref> Since then, India and Maldives have developed close strategic, military, economic and cultural relations. India has supported Maldives' policy of keeping regional issues and struggles away from itself, and the latter has seen friendship with India as a source of aid as well as a counterbalance to [[Sri Lanka]], which is in proximity to the island nation and its largest trading partner.<ref name="CFR"/> | |||
== Bilateral treaties and strategic partnership == | == Bilateral treaties and strategic partnership == | ||
=== 1976 Maritime treaty === | === 1976 Maritime treaty === | ||
{{anchor | Maritime | Maritime boundary | Treaty }} | {{anchor | Maritime | Maritime boundary | Treaty }} | ||
{{See also | Exclusive economic zone of India | Borders of India }} | {{See also | Exclusive economic zone of India | Borders of India }} | ||
In December 1976, India and the Maldives signed a [[List of maritime boundary treaties|maritime boundary treaty]] to agree on maritime boundaries.<ref name=treat1>"India–Maldives: Agreement between India and the Maldives on Maritime Boundary in the Arabian Sea and Related Matters", in Jonathan I. Charney and Lewis M. Alexander (eds., 1998). ''International Maritime Boundaries'' (Leiden: Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, {{ISBN|978-90-411-0345-1}}) pp. 1389–1399.</ref> Treaty explicitly places [[Minicoy#Treaty|Minicoy]] on the Indian side of the boundary.<ref name=treat1/> India and Maldives officially and amicably decided their [[maritime boundary]] in 1976.<ref name="CFR"/> A minor diplomatic incident occurred in 1982 when | In December 1976, India and the Maldives signed a [[List of maritime boundary treaties|maritime boundary treaty]] to agree on maritime boundaries.<ref name=treat1>"India–Maldives: Agreement between India and the Maldives on Maritime Boundary in the Arabian Sea and Related Matters", in Jonathan I. Charney and Lewis M. Alexander (eds., 1998). ''International Maritime Boundaries'' (Leiden: Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, {{ISBN|978-90-411-0345-1}}) pp. 1389–1399.</ref> Treaty explicitly places [[Minicoy#Treaty|Minicoy]] on the Indian side of the boundary.<ref name=treat1/> India and Maldives officially and amicably decided their [[maritime boundary]] in 1976.<ref name="CFR"/> A minor diplomatic incident occurred in 1982 when [[Maumoon Abdul Gayoom|President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom]]'s brother, [[Abdulla Hameed]] gave a speech that India mistook as a claim that the neighboring [[Minicoy Island]] that belonged to India were a part of Maldives; Maldives rapidly officially denied that it was laying claim to the island and explained that President Maumoon's brother had in fact been talking about the cultural connections between Maldives and Minicoy.<ref name="CFR"/> | ||
=== 1981 Comprehensive trade agreement === | |||
{{anchor | Maritime | Maritime boundary | Treaty }} | {{anchor | Maritime | Maritime boundary | Treaty }} | ||
{{See also | South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation | Economy of India | Economy of Maldives }} | {{See also | South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation | Economy of India | Economy of Maldives }} | ||
In 1981, India and Maldives signed a comprehensive trade agreement.<ref name="C">{{cite web |url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0176) | | In 1981, India and Maldives signed a comprehensive trade agreement.<ref name="C">{{cite web |title=Action plan to strengthen bilateral ties with Maldives |url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0176) |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090110125122/http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0176) |archive-date=10 January 2009 |access-date=5 June 2008 |work=[[Library of Congress]] Country Studies}}</ref> Both nations are founding members of the [[South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation]] (SAARC), the [[South Asian Economic Union]] and signatories to the [[South Asian Free Trade Area|South Asia Free Trade Agreement]]. Indian and Maldivian leaders have maintained high-level contacts and consultations on regional issues.<ref name="G"/> | ||
=== Commercial relations === | === Commercial relations === | ||
Since the success of [[1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt|Operation Cactus]], the relations between India and Maldives have expanded significantly.<ref name="CFR"/><ref name="VA3"/> India has provided extensive [[Aid|economic aid]] and has participated in bilateral programmes for the development of infrastructure, health, telecommunications and labour resources.<ref name="CFR"/><ref name="VA3"/> It established the [[Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital]] in [[Malé]], the capital of Maldives, expanded telecommunications and air links and increased scholarships for Maldivian students.<ref name="CFR"/> While India's exports to Maldives during 2006 were worth ₹384 [[crore]], imports were worth less than ₹6 [[crore]].<ref name="C"/> The [[State Bank of India]] has contributed more than US$500 million to aid the economic expansion of Maldives.<ref name="C"/> India and Maldives have announced plans to jointly work to expand fisheries and [[tuna]] processing.<ref name="C"/> | Since the success of [[1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt|Operation Cactus]], the relations between India and Maldives have expanded significantly.<ref name="CFR"/><ref name="VA3"/> India has provided extensive [[Aid|economic aid]] and has participated in bilateral programmes for the development of infrastructure, health, telecommunications and labour resources.<ref name="CFR"/><ref name="VA3"/> It established the [[Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital]] in [[Malé]], the capital of Maldives, expanded telecommunications and air links and increased scholarships for Maldivian students.<ref name="CFR"/> While India's exports to Maldives during 2006 were worth ₹384 [[crore]], imports were worth less than ₹6 [[crore]].<ref name="C"/> The [[State Bank of India]] has contributed more than US$500 million to aid the economic expansion of Maldives.<ref name="C"/> India and Maldives have announced plans to jointly work to expand fisheries and [[tuna]] processing.<ref name="C"/> | ||
{| class="wikitable" | {| class="wikitable" | ||
|+'''India-Maldives Trade Figures(in million US$)'''<ref>{{Cite web|title=Trade Services:Trends in Bilateral Trade|url=https://hci.gov.in/male/?2600?000|url-status= | |+'''India-Maldives Trade Figures (in million US$)'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Trade Services:Trends in Bilateral Trade |url=https://hci.gov.in/male/?2600?000 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419174054/https://hci.gov.in/male/?2600?000 |archive-date=19 April 2021 |access-date=2021-08-03 |website=High Commission of india, Male}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=India-Maldives Trade Figures (in million US$) |url=https://hci.gov.in/male/?pdf2600?000 |access-date=13 January 2024 |work=High Commission of India, Male}}</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
!'''Year''' | !'''Year''' | ||
| Line 67: | Line 79: | ||
|286.85 | |286.85 | ||
|- | |- | ||
|'''2020 ( | |'''2020''' | ||
| | |242.82 | ||
| | |3.33 | ||
| | |246.15 | ||
| | |239.49 | ||
|- | |||
|'''2021''' | |||
|317.35 | |||
|5.94 | |||
|323.29 | |||
|311.41 | |||
|- | |||
|'''2022 (Jan – April)''' | |||
|131.33 | |||
|2.78 | |||
|134.11 | |||
|128.55 | |||
|} | |} | ||
=== Military relations === | === Military relations === | ||
India started the process to bring the island country into India's security grid. The move comes after the moderate Islamic nation approached New Delhi earlier in 2009, over fears that one of its island resorts could be taken over by terrorists given its lack of military assets and surveillance capabilities.<ref name=Indmal1>{{Cite | In April 2006, the [[Indian Navy]] gifted a [[Trinkat-class patrol vessel|Trinkat Class]] [[Fast attack craft|Fast Attack Craft]] of 46 m length to the [[MNDF|Maldives National Defence Force]]'s [[Maldivian Coast Guard|Coast Guard]]. | ||
India started the process to bring the island country into India's security grid. The move comes after the moderate Islamic nation approached [[New Delhi]] earlier in 2009, over fears that one of its island resorts could be taken over by terrorists given its lack of military assets and surveillance capabilities.<ref name="Indmal1">{{Cite news |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=13 August 2009 |title=India bringing Maldives into its security net |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/news-archive/web/india-bringing-maldives-into-its-security-net/ |access-date=27 March 2016 |work=The Indian Express}}</ref> India has also signed an agreement which includes following:<ref name=Indmal1/> | |||
* India will permanently base two helicopters in the country to enhance its surveillance capabilities and ability to respond swiftly to threats. | * India will permanently base two helicopters in the country to enhance its surveillance capabilities and ability to respond swiftly to threats. | ||
* Maldives has coastal radars on only two of its 26 atolls. India will help set up radars on all 26 for seamless coverage of approaching vessels and aircraft. | * Maldives has coastal radars on only two of its 26 atolls. India will help set up radars on all 26 for seamless coverage of approaching vessels and aircraft. | ||
| Line 86: | Line 111: | ||
==Operations and events == | ==Operations and events == | ||
===1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt=== | ===1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt=== | ||
{{Main | 1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt}} | {{Main | 1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt}} | ||
The 1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt was by a group of [[Maldivians]] led by businessman Abdullah Luthufi and assisted by armed mercenaries of a [[Sri Lankan Tamil|Tamil]] secessionist organisation from Sri Lanka, the [[People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam]], to overthrow the government in the island republic of Maldives. The mercenaries quickly gained control of the capital, including the major government buildings, airport, port, television and radio stations. The intervention by the [[Indian Armed Forces]], codenamed Operation Cactus, defeated the attempted coup. | The 1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt was by a group of [[Maldivians]] led by businessman [[Abdullah Luthufi]] and assisted by armed mercenaries of a [[Sri Lankan Tamil|Tamil]] secessionist organisation from Sri Lanka, the [[People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam]], to overthrow the government in the island republic of Maldives. The mercenaries quickly gained control of the capital, including the major government buildings, airport, port, television and radio stations. The intervention by the [[Indian Armed Forces]], codenamed Operation Cactus, defeated the attempted coup. | ||
The Indian paratroopers immediately secured the airfield, crossed over to Malé using commandeered boats and rescued President Gayoom. The paratroopers restored control of the capital to President Gayoom's government within hours. Some of the mercenaries fled toward Sri Lanka in a hijacked freighter. Those unable to reach the ship in time were quickly rounded up and handed over to the Maldives government. Nineteen people reportedly died in the fighting, most of them mercenaries. The dead included two hostages killed by the mercenaries. The [[Indian Navy]] frigates ''[[INS Godavari (F20)|Godavari]]'' and ''[[INS Betwa ( | The Indian paratroopers immediately secured the airfield, crossed over to Malé using commandeered boats and rescued President Gayoom. The paratroopers restored control of the capital to President Gayoom's government within hours. Some of the mercenaries fled toward Sri Lanka in a hijacked freighter. Those unable to reach the ship in time were quickly rounded up and handed over to the Maldives government. Nineteen people reportedly died in the fighting, most of them mercenaries. The dead included two hostages killed by the mercenaries. The [[Indian Navy]] frigates ''[[INS Godavari (F20)|Godavari]]'' and ''[[INS Betwa (F139)|Betwa]]'' intercepted the freighter off the Sri Lankan coast, and captured the mercenaries. The swift intervention by the Indian military and accurate intelligence successfully quelled the attempted coup d'état.<ref>{{cite web |title=Operation Cactus |url=http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/History/1988Cactus/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101011095022/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/History/1988Cactus/ |archive-date=11 October 2010 |website=Bharat Rakshak}}</ref> | ||
=== 2014 Malé Water Shortage Crisis (MWSC) === | === 2014 Malé Water Shortage Crisis (MWSC) === | ||
In the wake of a drinking water crisis in Malé on 4 December 2014, following collapse of the island's only water treatment plant, Maldives urged India for immediate help. India came to rescue by sending its heavy lift transporters like [[C-17 Globemaster III]], [[Il-76]] carrying bottled water. The [[Indian Navy]] also sent her ships like {{INS|Sukanya|P50|6}}, {{INS|Deepak|A50|6}} and others which can produce fresh water using their onboard desalination plants.<ref>{{ | In the wake of a drinking water crisis in Malé on 4 December 2014, following collapse of the island's only water treatment plant, Maldives urged India for immediate help. India came to rescue by initiating [[Operation Neer]] sending its heavy lift transporters like [[C-17 Globemaster III]], [[Il-76]] carrying bottled water. The [[Indian Navy]] also sent her ships like {{INS|Sukanya|P50|6}}, {{INS|Deepak|A50|6}} and others which can produce fresh water using their onboard desalination plants.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 December 2014 |title=Maldives Water Crisis: India Transports 1,000 Tonnes of Fresh Water to Male |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/maldives-water-crisis-india-transports-1-000-tonnes-of-fresh-water-to-male-709771 |access-date=21 December 2014 |work=[[NDTV]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last=Panda |first=Ankit |date=5 December 2014 |title=Maldives Faces Drinking Water Crisis |url=https://thediplomat.com/2014/12/maldives-faces-drinking-water-crisis/ |access-date=21 December 2014 |magazine=[[The Diplomat (magazine)|The Diplomat]]}}</ref> The humanitarian relief efforts by the Indian side was widely appreciated in Malé across all sections of people, with the Vice-President of Maldives thanking the Indian ambassador for swift action.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/maldives-appreciative-of-india-s-help-during-its-water-crisis-shahare-114120600811_1.html|title=Maldives appreciative of India's help during its water crisis: Shahare|newspaper=[[Business Standard]]|date=6 December 2014|access-date=21 December 2014}}</ref> | ||
=== 2011–2015 Maldives political crisis === | === 2011–2015 Maldives political crisis === | ||
{{Main | 2011–2012 Maldives political crisis | l1= Maldives political crisis}} | {{Main | 2011–2012 Maldives political crisis | l1= Maldives political crisis}} | ||
Maldives' first democratically elected president from 2008 to 2012 [[Mohammed Nasheed]], was arrested on 22 February 2015 on terror charges. [[India]] and US expressed concern over Nasheed's arrest and manhandling.<ref>{{Cite news| | Maldives' first democratically elected president from 2008 to 2012, [[Mohammed Nasheed]], was arrested on 22 February 2015 on terror charges. [[India]] and US expressed concern over Nasheed's arrest and manhandling.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Botsy |first1=Daniel |last2=Aneez |first2=Shihar |date=2015-03-14 |title=U.S., India concerned over 13-year jail sentence for Maldives' ex-president Nasheed |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-maldives-politics-idUSKBN0M92D020150314 |access-date=2016-03-27 |newspaper=Reuters}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Sharma |first=Rajeev |date=7 March 2015 |title=PM Modi cancels trip to Maldives: Is it because of Yameen govt's rebuttal in Nasheed case? |url=https://www.firstpost.com/world/pm-modi-cancels-trip-to-maldives-is-it-because-of-yameen-govts-rebuttal-in-nasheed-casepm-modi-cancels-trip-to-maldives-is-it-because-yameen-govts-rebuttal-in-nasheed-case-2140761.html |access-date=27 March 2016 |work=Firstpost}}</ref> [[Narendra Modi|Indian PM Modi]] was to also visit Maldives in the second week of March as a part four nation [[Foreign policy of Narendra Modi#Indian Ocean outreach|visit to Indian Ocean neighbours]]. But, he later omitted Maldives from his tour.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Haidar |first=Suhasini |date=2015-03-06 |title=PM drops Maldives from Indian Ocean tour |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-drops-maldives-from-indian-ocean-tour/article6966095.ece |access-date=2016-03-27 |newspaper=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Chaudhury |first=Dipanjan Roy |date=7 March 2015 |title=Prime Minister Narendra Modi cancels Maldives trip due to political unrest |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/prime-minister-narendra-modi-cancels-maldives-trip-due-to-political-unrest/articleshow/46481071.cms |access-date=27 March 2016 |work=Economic Times - India Times}}</ref> | ||
=== 2020 COVID-19 crisis === | === 2020 COVID-19 crisis === | ||
In April 2020, India provided $150 million currency swap support to help Maldives mitigate the financial impact of COVID-19.<ref name="Avas">{{cite news |date=28 April 2020|title=India extends US$ 150 mln currency swap support to Maldives|url=https://avas.mv/en/81994| newspaper=Avas | During the [[COVID-19 pandemic|COVID-19 crisis]] of 2020, India extended help to Maldives in the form of financial, material and logistical support. | ||
In April 2020, India provided $150 million currency swap support to help Maldives mitigate the financial impact of [[COVID-19 pandemic in Maldives|COVID-19]].<ref name="Avas">{{cite news |date=28 April 2020 |title=India extends US$ 150 mln currency swap support to Maldives |url=https://avas.mv/en/81994 |newspaper=Avas}}</ref> Also in April, at the request of the Maldivian government, the [[Indian Air Force]] airlifted 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines and hospital consumables to Maldives, as part of 'Operation Sanjeevani'. These supplies had been procured by Maldives's [[State Trading Organisation]] from suppliers in India, but could not be transported due to the COVID-19 lockdown.<ref name="Print">{{cite news |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2 April 2020 |title=IAF airlifts 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines, hospital consumables to Maldives |url=https://theprint.in/defence/iaf-airlifts-6-2-tonnes-of-essential-medicines-hospital-consumables-to-maldives/393909/ |newspaper=The Print}}</ref> India had also earlier despatched a medical team with essential medicines to help Maldives fight the COVID outbreak as well as supplied essential food grains and edibles despite logistical challenges in wake of lockdown.<ref name="DD News">{{cite news |date=2 April 2020|title=Operation Sanjeevani: IAF airlifts medical and hospital consumables for the Maldives|url=http://ddnews.gov.in/national/operation-sanjeevani-iaf-airlifts-medical-and-hospital-consumables-maldives| newspaper=DD News}}</ref> This operation was called Operation [[Sanjeevani (plant)|Sanjeevani]]. | |||
=== Civil society perception of India === | === Civil society perception of India === | ||
Maldivians generally regard Indians and India as a | |||
Maldivians generally regard Indians and India as a friends and trusted neighbour in the economic, social and political fields, although there has been a strong anti-India stance taken by some sections of the society, expressed under the 'India Out' campaign, which was alleged by the Indian High Commission to be "motivated, malicious, and increasingly personal".<ref>{{Cite news|last=Banka|first=Neha|date=20 July 2021|title=Explained: What is behind the 'India Out' campaign in the Maldives?|work=The Indian Express|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/the-maldives-india-out-campaign-explained-7396314/|access-date=26 November 2021}}</ref> Both nations share historical and cultural ties. Maldives holds a significant position among India's vital maritime neighbors. India has actively engaged in various efforts aimed at bolstering the defense and security infrastructure in Maldives through capacity development and capability enhancement. Working closely with the Maldivian authorities, the Indian Navy has conducted joint exercises, provided training to personnel, aided in infrastructure development, and facilitated the transfer of equipment. These collaborative initiatives emphasize India's crucial role as a security provider in the region. Furthermore, the Indian government has undertaken a reevaluation of its diplomatic approaches concerning key Indian Ocean island nations, taking into consideration their strategic access to the region.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ahmed |first=Shayesta Nishat |date=6 June 2023 |title=Enriching the Defence Contours of India-Maldives Relations |url=https://www.idsa.in/idsacomments/Enriching-the-Defence-Contours-of-India-Maldives-Relations-NSAhmed-060623 |access-date=21 July 2023 |work=Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses}}</ref> | |||
=== 2024 India–Maldives diplomatic row === | |||
{{main|2024 India–Maldives diplomatic row}} | |||
Relations faced a strain in January 2024 due to derogatory remarks by Maldivian officials and concerns over racism, targeted towards Indian Prime Minister [[Narendra Modi]] as well as India.<ref>{{Cite web |title="Indians Rightfully Angry": Maldives MP Amid Row Over Ministers' Remarks |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/shameful-racist-maldives-mp-condemns-ministers-remark-on-india-pm-modi-4820311 |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> Maldivian President [[Mohamed Muizzu]] is widely seen to be pro-China, meaning souring relations with India.<ref>{{cite news |title=What the China-Maldives-India Triangle Tells Us About 21st Century Balancing |url=https://thediplomat.com/2024/01/what-the-china-maldives-india-triangle-tells-us-about-21st-century-balancing/ |work=thediplomat.com}}</ref> | |||
This was seen very negatively in India, with citizens calling for a boycott of vacations in Maldives, with many renowned [[Bollywood]] actors and personalities criticising the Maldivian government. This also led to the death of a young Maldivian teenager,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Biswas |first1=Sayantani |title=Maldives teen dies waiting for air ambulance, minister blames President Muizzu's 'animosity' towards India |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/world/malives-india-row-teen-dies-waiting-for-indian-dornier-aircraft-minister-blames-mohamed-muizzus-animosity-11705813493152.html |agency=Mint}}</ref> who had to be taken to India via an [[air ambulance]], after the request at the last minute was denied by Maldivian authorities due to the ongoing tensions against the country.<ref>{{cite news |last1= Gupta |first1=Adarsh Kumar |title=Sick Maldivian teen dies after President Mohammed Muizzu refused India's plane services: Report |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/sick-maldivian-teen-dies-after-president-mohammed-muizzu-refused-indias-plane-services-report-101705810862369.html |agency=Hindustan Times}}</ref> | |||
On May 9, Indian ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal the diplomatic meeting between S Jaishankar and his Maldivian counter part Zameer. Indian MEA spokesperson also confirmed the process of appointment of "competent Indian technical personnel" in place of Indian troops to keep running the Indian aviation platforms which are crucial for evaluation and other humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) activities in Maldives. | |||
=== Reset in relations === | |||
In August, 2024, both [[India]] and the [[Maldives]] agreed to sort out differences following Indian minister [[S. Jaishankar]]'s visit to the [[Maldives]], following a visit by the Maldivian PM to [[India]] to attend [[Modi]]'s swearing-in ceremony in June. Ties have improved significantly since then. India has announced new investments and cooperation to help build infrastructure in the [[Maldives]]. | |||
== Joint Projects in Maldives == | == Joint Projects in Maldives == | ||
=== Uthuru Thila Falhu Naval Base Harbour === | === Uthuru Thila Falhu Naval Base Harbour === | ||
India extended a $50 million | |||
India extended a $50 million line of credit to Maldives for defense projects, mainly for the development, support and maintenance of the harbour of the Uthuru Thila Falhu Naval Base.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Laskar |first=Rezaul H. |date=21 February 2021 |title=India, Maldives sign agreements for developing naval harbour, boosting defence |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-maldives-sign-agreements-for-developing-naval-harbour-boosting-defence-101613921874713.html |access-date=2022-03-28 |work=The Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Bhaumik |first=Anirban |date=22 February 2021 |title=India pips China, inks deal to develop, support, maintain harbour at naval base in Maldives |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/india-pips-china-inks-deal-to-develop-support-maintain-harbour-at-naval-base-in-maldives-953675.html |access-date=28 March 2022 |work=Deccan Herald}}</ref> | |||
=== Greater Malé Connectivity Project === | === Greater Malé Connectivity Project === | ||
{{Main|Greater Malé Connectivity Project|l1 = Greater Malé Connectivity Project}} | {{Main|Greater Malé Connectivity Project|l1 = Greater Malé Connectivity Project}} | ||
In 2021, the Maldivian Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure signed a $500 million infrastructure project for a 6.7 km bridge & causeway link with the Indian engineering company [[Afcons Infrastructure|AFCONS]]. The 6.74-km bridge and causeway link will connect the capital of [[Malé]] with the islands of [[Villingili (Malé)|Villingili]], Gulhifalhu and [[Thilafushi]]. It is being funded through a grant of $100 million and a line of credit of $400 million from India, and will boost connectivity between the four islands that account for almost half of the Maldivian population.<ref>{{Cite | |||
In 2021, the Maldivian Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure signed a $500 million infrastructure project for a 6.7 km bridge & causeway link with the Indian engineering company [[Afcons Infrastructure|AFCONS]]. The 6.74-km bridge and causeway link will connect the capital of [[Malé]] with the islands of [[Villingili (Malé)|Villingili]], Gulhifalhu and [[Thilafushi]]. It is being funded through a grant of $100 million and a line of credit of $400 million from India, and will boost connectivity between the four islands that account for almost half of the Maldivian population.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Laskar |first=Rezaul H. |date=26 August 2021 |title=Maldives govt signs contract for India-funded $500 million connectivity project |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/maldives-govt-signs-contract-for-india-funded-500-million-connectivity-project-101629983482797.html |access-date=27 March 2022 |work=The Hindustan Times}}</ref> India's engagement in the Maldives encompasses various infrastructure initiatives, such as the Greater Malé Connectivity Project.<ref>{{Cite news |date=26 August 2021 |title=India, Maldives to sign pact on Greater Male Connectivity Project |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-maldives-greater-male-connectivity-project-7471603/ |access-date=12 July 2023 |work=The Indian Express}}</ref> | |||
=== Water and sanitation projects === | |||
In 2024, [[President of the Maldives|President]] [[Mohamed Muizzu]] and [[Minister of External Affairs (India)|Indian Minister of External Affairs]] [[S. Jaishankar]] jointly inaugurated water and sanitation projects in 28 islands. This initiative aimed to provide access to safe drinking water, benefiting 32 islands, and to introduce sewerage systems in 17 islands.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Seli |first=Yeshi |date=2024-08-11 |title='I thank Indian govt, PM Modi for supporting Maldives,' says Muizzu; Inaugurates water projects with EAM Jaishankar |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2024/Aug/11/india-to-fund-28-water-projects-in-maldives |access-date=2024-08-12 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> The project impacted the lives of over 28,000 Maldivians. With a total funding of $100 million, it represented the largest climate adaptation effort implemented in the Maldives through international collaboration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-10 |title=Jaishankar launches Maldives' largest India-funded sanitation project |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/maldives-largest-india-funded-sanitation-projects-inaugurated-by-s-jaishankar-2580335-2024-08-10 |access-date=2024-08-12 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=PTI |title=Jaishankar emphasises deeper India-Maldives ties for 'benefit of people' as he meets President Muizzu |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/jaishankar-emphasises-deeper-india-maldives-ties-for-benefit-of-people-as-he-meets-president-muizzu-3145614 |access-date=2024-08-12 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref> | |||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
* [[Indians in the Maldives]] | * [[Indians in the Maldives]] | ||
* [[Maldivians in India]] | * [[Maldivians in India]] | ||
| Line 125: | Line 174: | ||
== References == | == References == | ||
{{reflist}} | {{reflist}} | ||
Latest revision as of 10:13, 14 February 2026
 | |
 India |
 Maldives |
|---|---|
| Diplomatic mission | |
| High Commission of India, Malé | High Commission of the Maldives, New Delhi |
| Envoy | |
| High Commissioner Shri Munu Mahawar | High Commissioner Aishath Azeema |
India and Maldives are neighbours sharing a maritime border.[1][2] India continues to contribute to maintaining security as well as providing financial aid on the island nation.[2][3][4]
However, tensions have increased as President of the Maldives Mohamed Muizzu has imposed an "India-Out" campaign and the country is deepening ties with China. Along with this, recent incidents of ministers of the Maldives insulting the islands of Lakshadweep and the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, have heightened tensions.
It represents India's second-largest ongoing plantation infrastructure endeavor, following the $500 million Greater Malé Project. The Greater Malé Project aims to link the capital with three adjacent highlands through a 6.74-kilometer-long sea bridge.[5]
Both India and the Maldives are republics in the Commonwealth of Nations.
India has a High Commission in Malé, and the Maldives has a High Commission in New Delhi.
In July 2025, India and the Maldives revitalised ties with a USD 565 million line of credit from India to support Maldivian infrastructure projects. The two sides also agreed to reduce the Maldives’ annual debt repayment to India by 40% and signed six cooperation pacts in areas including fisheries, digital infrastructure, and health. Talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Mohamed Muizzu marked a thaw in relations following earlier tensions, with both leaders committing to stronger economic and defence cooperation. Key developments included progress on a free trade agreement, promotion of digital payment systems like UPI, and the inauguration of India-assisted projects. The renewed partnership was positioned as crucial for regional peace and Indian Ocean stability.[6]
History[edit | edit source]
Maldives is located south of India's Lakshadweep Islands in the Indian Ocean. Both nations established diplomatic relations after the independence of Maldives from British rule in 1965.[1] India was one of the first nations to recognise Maldives' independence.[7] Since then, India and Maldives have developed close strategic, military, economic and cultural relations. India has supported Maldives' policy of keeping regional issues and struggles away from itself, and the latter has seen friendship with India as a source of aid as well as a counterbalance to Sri Lanka, which is in proximity to the island nation and its largest trading partner.[2]
Bilateral treaties and strategic partnership[edit | edit source]
1976 Maritime treaty[edit | edit source]
In December 1976, India and the Maldives signed a maritime boundary treaty to agree on maritime boundaries.[8] Treaty explicitly places Minicoy on the Indian side of the boundary.[8] India and Maldives officially and amicably decided their maritime boundary in 1976.[2] A minor diplomatic incident occurred in 1982 when President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's brother, Abdulla Hameed gave a speech that India mistook as a claim that the neighboring Minicoy Island that belonged to India were a part of Maldives; Maldives rapidly officially denied that it was laying claim to the island and explained that President Maumoon's brother had in fact been talking about the cultural connections between Maldives and Minicoy.[2]
1981 Comprehensive trade agreement[edit | edit source]
In 1981, India and Maldives signed a comprehensive trade agreement.[9] Both nations are founding members of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), the South Asian Economic Union and signatories to the South Asia Free Trade Agreement. Indian and Maldivian leaders have maintained high-level contacts and consultations on regional issues.[1]
Commercial relations[edit | edit source]
Since the success of Operation Cactus, the relations between India and Maldives have expanded significantly.[2][3] India has provided extensive economic aid and has participated in bilateral programmes for the development of infrastructure, health, telecommunications and labour resources.[2][3] It established the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Malé, the capital of Maldives, expanded telecommunications and air links and increased scholarships for Maldivian students.[2] While India's exports to Maldives during 2006 were worth ₹384 crore, imports were worth less than ₹6 crore.[9] The State Bank of India has contributed more than US$500 million to aid the economic expansion of Maldives.[9] India and Maldives have announced plans to jointly work to expand fisheries and tuna processing.[9]
| Year | India's Exports | India's Imports | Total Trade | India's Balance of Trade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 225.82 | 3.00 | 228.82 | 222.81 |
| 2016 | 274.55 | 1.55 | 276.10 | 273.00 |
| 2017 | 282.04 | 4.12 | 286.16 | 277.93 |
| 2018 | 286.13 | 3.01 | 289.14 | 283.12 |
| 2019 | 290.27 | 3.42 | 293.69 | 286.85 |
| 2020 | 242.82 | 3.33 | 246.15 | 239.49 |
| 2021 | 317.35 | 5.94 | 323.29 | 311.41 |
| 2022 (Jan – April) | 131.33 | 2.78 | 134.11 | 128.55 |
Military relations[edit | edit source]
In April 2006, the Indian Navy gifted a Trinkat Class Fast Attack Craft of 46 m length to the Maldives National Defence Force's Coast Guard.
India started the process to bring the island country into India's security grid. The move comes after the moderate Islamic nation approached New Delhi earlier in 2009, over fears that one of its island resorts could be taken over by terrorists given its lack of military assets and surveillance capabilities.[12] India has also signed an agreement which includes following:[12]
- India will permanently base two helicopters in the country to enhance its surveillance capabilities and ability to respond swiftly to threats.
- Maldives has coastal radars on only two of its 26 atolls. India will help set up radars on all 26 for seamless coverage of approaching vessels and aircraft.
- The coastal radar chain in Maldives will be networked with the Indian coastal radar system. India has already undertaken a project to install radars along its entire coastline. The radar chains of the two countries will be interlinked and a central control room in India's Coastal Command will get a seamless radar picture.
- The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will carry out regular Dornier sorties over the island nation to look out for suspicious movements or vessels. The Southern Naval Command will overlook the inclusion of Maldives into the Indian security grid.
- Military teams from Maldives will visit the tri-services Andaman Nicobar Command (ANC) to observe how India manages security and surveillance of the critical island chain.
- Ekuverin, an annual joint military exercise is held every year since 2009 between India and Maldives. The exercise aims to enhance the interoperability between the Indian Army and Maldives National Defence Force in order to effectively undertake counter-terrorism operations in urban or semi-urban environments.
Operations and events[edit | edit source]
1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt[edit | edit source]
The 1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt was by a group of Maldivians led by businessman Abdullah Luthufi and assisted by armed mercenaries of a Tamil secessionist organisation from Sri Lanka, the People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam, to overthrow the government in the island republic of Maldives. The mercenaries quickly gained control of the capital, including the major government buildings, airport, port, television and radio stations. The intervention by the Indian Armed Forces, codenamed Operation Cactus, defeated the attempted coup.
The Indian paratroopers immediately secured the airfield, crossed over to Malé using commandeered boats and rescued President Gayoom. The paratroopers restored control of the capital to President Gayoom's government within hours. Some of the mercenaries fled toward Sri Lanka in a hijacked freighter. Those unable to reach the ship in time were quickly rounded up and handed over to the Maldives government. Nineteen people reportedly died in the fighting, most of them mercenaries. The dead included two hostages killed by the mercenaries. The Indian Navy frigates Godavari and Betwa intercepted the freighter off the Sri Lankan coast, and captured the mercenaries. The swift intervention by the Indian military and accurate intelligence successfully quelled the attempted coup d'état.[13]
2014 Malé Water Shortage Crisis (MWSC)[edit | edit source]
In the wake of a drinking water crisis in Malé on 4 December 2014, following collapse of the island's only water treatment plant, Maldives urged India for immediate help. India came to rescue by initiating Operation Neer sending its heavy lift transporters like C-17 Globemaster III, Il-76 carrying bottled water. The Indian Navy also sent her ships like INS Sukanya, INS Deepak and others which can produce fresh water using their onboard desalination plants.[14][15] The humanitarian relief efforts by the Indian side was widely appreciated in Malé across all sections of people, with the Vice-President of Maldives thanking the Indian ambassador for swift action.[16]
2011–2015 Maldives political crisis[edit | edit source]
Maldives' first democratically elected president from 2008 to 2012, Mohammed Nasheed, was arrested on 22 February 2015 on terror charges. India and US expressed concern over Nasheed's arrest and manhandling.[17][18] Indian PM Modi was to also visit Maldives in the second week of March as a part four nation visit to Indian Ocean neighbours. But, he later omitted Maldives from his tour.[19][20]
2020 COVID-19 crisis[edit | edit source]
During the COVID-19 crisis of 2020, India extended help to Maldives in the form of financial, material and logistical support.
In April 2020, India provided $150 million currency swap support to help Maldives mitigate the financial impact of COVID-19.[21] Also in April, at the request of the Maldivian government, the Indian Air Force airlifted 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines and hospital consumables to Maldives, as part of 'Operation Sanjeevani'. These supplies had been procured by Maldives's State Trading Organisation from suppliers in India, but could not be transported due to the COVID-19 lockdown.[22] India had also earlier despatched a medical team with essential medicines to help Maldives fight the COVID outbreak as well as supplied essential food grains and edibles despite logistical challenges in wake of lockdown.[23] This operation was called Operation Sanjeevani.
Civil society perception of India[edit | edit source]
Maldivians generally regard Indians and India as a friends and trusted neighbour in the economic, social and political fields, although there has been a strong anti-India stance taken by some sections of the society, expressed under the 'India Out' campaign, which was alleged by the Indian High Commission to be "motivated, malicious, and increasingly personal".[24] Both nations share historical and cultural ties. Maldives holds a significant position among India's vital maritime neighbors. India has actively engaged in various efforts aimed at bolstering the defense and security infrastructure in Maldives through capacity development and capability enhancement. Working closely with the Maldivian authorities, the Indian Navy has conducted joint exercises, provided training to personnel, aided in infrastructure development, and facilitated the transfer of equipment. These collaborative initiatives emphasize India's crucial role as a security provider in the region. Furthermore, the Indian government has undertaken a reevaluation of its diplomatic approaches concerning key Indian Ocean island nations, taking into consideration their strategic access to the region.[25]
2024 India–Maldives diplomatic row[edit | edit source]
Relations faced a strain in January 2024 due to derogatory remarks by Maldivian officials and concerns over racism, targeted towards Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well as India.[26] Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu is widely seen to be pro-China, meaning souring relations with India.[27]
This was seen very negatively in India, with citizens calling for a boycott of vacations in Maldives, with many renowned Bollywood actors and personalities criticising the Maldivian government. This also led to the death of a young Maldivian teenager,[28] who had to be taken to India via an air ambulance, after the request at the last minute was denied by Maldivian authorities due to the ongoing tensions against the country.[29]
On May 9, Indian ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal the diplomatic meeting between S Jaishankar and his Maldivian counter part Zameer. Indian MEA spokesperson also confirmed the process of appointment of "competent Indian technical personnel" in place of Indian troops to keep running the Indian aviation platforms which are crucial for evaluation and other humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) activities in Maldives.
Reset in relations[edit | edit source]
In August, 2024, both India and the Maldives agreed to sort out differences following Indian minister S. Jaishankar's visit to the Maldives, following a visit by the Maldivian PM to India to attend Modi's swearing-in ceremony in June. Ties have improved significantly since then. India has announced new investments and cooperation to help build infrastructure in the Maldives.
Joint Projects in Maldives[edit | edit source]
[edit | edit source]
India extended a $50 million line of credit to Maldives for defense projects, mainly for the development, support and maintenance of the harbour of the Uthuru Thila Falhu Naval Base.[30][31]
Greater Malé Connectivity Project[edit | edit source]
In 2021, the Maldivian Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure signed a $500 million infrastructure project for a 6.7 km bridge & causeway link with the Indian engineering company AFCONS. The 6.74-km bridge and causeway link will connect the capital of Malé with the islands of Villingili, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi. It is being funded through a grant of $100 million and a line of credit of $400 million from India, and will boost connectivity between the four islands that account for almost half of the Maldivian population.[32] India's engagement in the Maldives encompasses various infrastructure initiatives, such as the Greater Malé Connectivity Project.[33]
Water and sanitation projects[edit | edit source]
In 2024, President Mohamed Muizzu and Indian Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar jointly inaugurated water and sanitation projects in 28 islands. This initiative aimed to provide access to safe drinking water, benefiting 32 islands, and to introduce sewerage systems in 17 islands.[34] The project impacted the lives of over 28,000 Maldivians. With a total funding of $100 million, it represented the largest climate adaptation effort implemented in the Maldives through international collaboration.[35][36]
See also[edit | edit source]
- Indians in the Maldives
- Maldivians in India
- South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "China – India relations". Library of Congress Country Studies. Archived from the original on 10 January 2009. Retrieved 5 June 2008.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 Aryasinha, Ravinatha. "Maldives, Sri Lanka and the "India Factor"". Himal South Asia Magazine. Archived from the original on 29 May 2008. Retrieved 5 June 2008.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Devin T. Hagerty (2005). South Asia in World Politics. Rowman and Littlefield. pp. 102–103. ISBN 0-7425-2587-2.
- ↑ "India extends financial assistance of 100 million US dollars to Maldives". All India Radio News. Retrieved 21 July 2023.
- ↑ Nanda, Prakash (3 May 2023). "India 'Shadowboxes' China In The Maldives; Looks To Knock Out Chinese Challenge In The Indian Ocean Nation". The EurAsian Times. Retrieved 22 September 2023.
- ↑ https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/india-announces-rs-4-850-cr-loc-for-maldives-modi-says-ties-between-two-neighbours-as-deep-as-ocean-13329110.html.
{{cite web}}: Missing or empty|title=(help) - ↑ Malone, David M (30 August 2012). Does the Elephant Dance?: Contemporary Indian Foreign Policy. Oxford. ISBN 9780199661275.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 "India–Maldives: Agreement between India and the Maldives on Maritime Boundary in the Arabian Sea and Related Matters", in Jonathan I. Charney and Lewis M. Alexander (eds., 1998). International Maritime Boundaries (Leiden: Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, ISBN 978-90-411-0345-1) pp. 1389–1399.
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 "Action plan to strengthen bilateral ties with Maldives". Library of Congress Country Studies. Archived from the original on 10 January 2009. Retrieved 5 June 2008.
- ↑ "Trade Services:Trends in Bilateral Trade". High Commission of india, Male. Archived from the original on 19 April 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2021.
- ↑ "India-Maldives Trade Figures (in million US$)". High Commission of India, Male. Retrieved 13 January 2024.
- ↑ 12.0 12.1 Pubby, Manu (13 August 2009). "India bringing Maldives into its security net". The Indian Express. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
- ↑ "Operation Cactus". Bharat Rakshak. Archived from the original on 11 October 2010.
- ↑ "Maldives Water Crisis: India Transports 1,000 Tonnes of Fresh Water to Male". NDTV. 7 December 2014. Retrieved 21 December 2014.
- ↑ Panda, Ankit (5 December 2014). "Maldives Faces Drinking Water Crisis". The Diplomat. Retrieved 21 December 2014.
- ↑ "Maldives appreciative of India's help during its water crisis: Shahare". Business Standard. 6 December 2014. Retrieved 21 December 2014.
- ↑ Botsy, Daniel; Aneez, Shihar (14 March 2015). "U.S., India concerned over 13-year jail sentence for Maldives' ex-president Nasheed". Reuters. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
- ↑ Sharma, Rajeev (7 March 2015). "PM Modi cancels trip to Maldives: Is it because of Yameen govt's rebuttal in Nasheed case?". Firstpost. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
- ↑ Haidar, Suhasini (6 March 2015). "PM drops Maldives from Indian Ocean tour". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
- ↑ Chaudhury, Dipanjan Roy (7 March 2015). "Prime Minister Narendra Modi cancels Maldives trip due to political unrest". Economic Times - India Times. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
- ↑ "India extends US$ 150 mln currency swap support to Maldives". Avas. 28 April 2020.
- ↑ Philip, Snehesh Alex (2 April 2020). "IAF airlifts 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines, hospital consumables to Maldives". The Print.
- ↑ "Operation Sanjeevani: IAF airlifts medical and hospital consumables for the Maldives". DD News. 2 April 2020.
- ↑ Banka, Neha (20 July 2021). "Explained: What is behind the 'India Out' campaign in the Maldives?". The Indian Express. Retrieved 26 November 2021.
- ↑ Ahmed, Shayesta Nishat (6 June 2023). "Enriching the Defence Contours of India-Maldives Relations". Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses. Retrieved 21 July 2023.
- ↑ ""Indians Rightfully Angry": Maldives MP Amid Row Over Ministers' Remarks". NDTV.com. Retrieved 8 January 2024.
- ↑ "What the China-Maldives-India Triangle Tells Us About 21st Century Balancing". thediplomat.com.
- ↑ Biswas, Sayantani. "Maldives teen dies waiting for air ambulance, minister blames President Muizzu's 'animosity' towards India". Mint.
- ↑ Gupta, Adarsh Kumar. "Sick Maldivian teen dies after President Mohammed Muizzu refused India's plane services: Report". Hindustan Times.
- ↑ Laskar, Rezaul H. (21 February 2021). "India, Maldives sign agreements for developing naval harbour, boosting defence". The Hindustan Times. Retrieved 28 March 2022.
- ↑ Bhaumik, Anirban (22 February 2021). "India pips China, inks deal to develop, support, maintain harbour at naval base in Maldives". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 28 March 2022.
- ↑ Laskar, Rezaul H. (26 August 2021). "Maldives govt signs contract for India-funded $500 million connectivity project". The Hindustan Times. Retrieved 27 March 2022.
- ↑ "India, Maldives to sign pact on Greater Male Connectivity Project". The Indian Express. 26 August 2021. Retrieved 12 July 2023.
- ↑ Seli, Yeshi (11 August 2024). "'I thank Indian govt, PM Modi for supporting Maldives,' says Muizzu; Inaugurates water projects with EAM Jaishankar". The New Indian Express. Retrieved 12 August 2024.
- ↑ "Jaishankar launches Maldives' largest India-funded sanitation project". India Today. 10 August 2024. Retrieved 12 August 2024.
- ↑ PTI. "Jaishankar emphasises deeper India-Maldives ties for 'benefit of people' as he meets President Muizzu". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 12 August 2024.
