• UGI USER
  • May 19, 2024
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“CHABAHAR PORT: A STRATEGIC HUB”

Syllabus:

  • GS-2 : India and its bilateral relations with other countries ,Enhancing trade and security in the region

Focus :

  • The focus of the article is on the strategic importance of Chabahar Port for India, tracing its historical context, diplomatic initiatives, and geopolitical challenges.
  • It highlights India’s efforts to develop the port as an alternative trade route to Afghanistan, despite obstacles such as US sanctions and competition from China.

Historical Context:

  • Before Partition, Chabahar (earlier known as Tiz) was situated in Iran’s Sistan Baluchistan province.
  • It was strategically located between the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The town had cultural ties with India, where Panchatantra was once read in Persian.

Early Attempts at Development:

  • In 1970, the Shah of Iran envisioned developing Chabahar, considering its strategic location.
  • However, ties between independent India and Iran were not close due to geopolitical factors.
  • Efforts to develop Chabahar gained momentum in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Diplomatic Initiatives:

  • In 1993, Prime Minister Narasimha Rao’s visit to Tehran laid the groundwork for closer ties.
  • Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s visit in 2001 and President Mohammad Khatami’s visit to Delhi in 2003 sealed the Chabahar deal.

Strategic Importance:

  • Chabahar’s location provided India with an alternative trade route to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan
  • India initiated the construction of Route-606 (Zaranj-Delaram Highway) to facilitate trade with Afghanistan.
  • The port became a hub of connectivity, offering immense strategic potential.

Geopolitical Challenges:

  • India’s progress in Chabahar was hindered by US sanctions against Iran.
  • China’s maritime forays in the Indian Ocean posed competitive challenges.
  • Despite obstacles, India continued its engagement with Chabahar, sending its first shipment in 2012.
Source - IE

Evolving Partnerships:

  • In 2016, India signed an agreement with Iran to invest $500 million in Chabahar’s development.
  • However, US withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018 led to renewed sanctions against Iran.
  • India faced pressure to reduce oil imports from Iran but maintained its commitment to Chabahar.

Recent Developments:

  • Despite challenges, Chabahar handled significant cargo traffic, including aid for Afghanistan.
  • India recently signed a 10-year contract with Iran to further develop the port, signaling its long-term commitment.
  • The project aims to build 32 jetties and process 82 million tonnes of cargo per year by the end of the fourth phase.

Future Prospects:

  • The US has raised concerns about sanctions against Indian companies participating in the project.
  • However, India’s interest in Chabahar remains steadfast, driven by its strategic importance and long-term goals.
  • Despite delays, Chabahar’s development is irreversible, reflecting its enduring geopolitical

Source:The Hindu

Mains Practice Question :

GS-2

“Discuss the strategic significance of Chabahar Port for India and its evolving partnerships with Iran, considering the geopolitical challenges and recent developments.” (250 words)