The 21st century is increasingly b eing described as the Indian Ocean Century. As the global economic centre of gravity shifts from the Atlantic to Asia, the vast maritime region stretching from the eastern coast of Africa to the western Pacific has emerged as the world’s busiest and most strategically important sea space. More than 80 per cent of the world’s seaborne oil trade by volume and a significant share of global merchandise trade pass through the Indian Ocean.

It is home to some of the fastest-growing economies and serves as the lifeline of international commerce. For India, the Indian Ocean is not merely a geographical expression. It is the foundation of the country’s economic security, energy security and strategic influence. India’s destiny has always been intertwined with the sea. From the days of the ancient Cholas, Cheras and the maritime traders of Kerala to the modern Indian Navy, the oceans have connected India to the wider world through commerce, culture and civilization. India possesses enormous maritime advantages. With a coastline of more than 7,500 kilometres and an Exclusive Economic Zone of over two million square kilometres, the country is blessed with abundant marine resources.

The rapidly expanding Blue Economy – covering fisheries, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, offshore renewable energy and coastal tourism – is expected to contribute trillions of dollars to the global economy in the coming decades. India is well positioned to become one of its leading beneficiaries. Kerala occupies a unique place in this maritime vision. Situated at the heart of the Indian Ocean trade routes, the state has historically been India’s gateway to the Arabian Sea. Its strategic geography, natural harbours, shipbuilding potential and centuries-old seafaring traditions make Kerala a vital pillar of India’s maritime ambitions.

The state is among India’s largest........

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