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Subject: International Relations

  • India signs $750-mn currency swap deal with forex-starved Maldives

    Why in the News?

    The RBI has announced a Currency Swap Agreement with the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) under the SAARC Currency Swap Framework 2024-27.

    India’s Financial Support to Maldives

    • India will extend financial support to the Maldives, providing $400 million under the US Dollar/Euro Swap Window.
    • Additionally, ₹30 billion (approximately $357 million) will be made available under the INR Swap Window.
    • The Currency Swap Agreement will remain valid until June 18, 2027.

    About SAARC Currency Swap Framework:

    Details
    Objective To provide short-term liquidity support to SAARC member countries during financial crises or instability.
    Administered by Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
    Launch Year 2012
    Countries Involved All SAARC members: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
    Facility Swap arrangement in US Dollar, Euro, or Indian Rupee.
    Interest Rate Based on the currency borrowed, includes a margin over international benchmark rates.
    Purpose To address the balance of payment crises and provide financial stability.
    Recent Users Sri Lanka, Maldives

     

    Maldives’ Debt Situation

    • The Maldives’ debt is now estimated at 110% of its gross domestic product (GDP), with increasing risks of defaulting on its sukuk (Islamic bond).
    • A failure to make payments would mark the world’s first default of an Islamic bond.
      • Fitch Ratings estimates that the Maldives’ external debt obligations will reach $557 million by 2025 and exceed $1 billion by 2026.
      • The country’s foreign reserves stood at just $437 million at the end of August, only enough to cover one-and-a-half months of imports.
      • India provided a $50 million lifeline to the Maldives to help avoid this outcome.
    • The Export-Import Bank of India is owed nearly $400 million, while the Export-Import Bank of China is owed about $530 million as of last year.

    Significance of India’s Assistance

    • Debt Relief: India’s financial aid, including a $50 million lifeline, would help the Maldives avoid debt default and stabilize its economy.
    • Geopolitical Influence: With this, India can counter China’s influence in the Maldives, strengthening its strategic position in the Indian Ocean.
    • Diplomatic Reset: India’s support strengthens diplomatic relations, aiding the Maldives in debt restructuring and global partnerships.

    PYQ:

    [2019] In the context of India, which of the following factors is/are contributor/contributors to reducing the risk of a currency crisis?

    1. The foreign currency earnings of India’s IT sector
    2. Increasing the government expenditure
    3. Remittances from Indians abroad

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Trade is not just Globalized but also weaponized: S. Jaishankar

    Why in the News?

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted that over the past 25 years, globalisation has led to job losses and dissatisfaction in many societies, as trade has become both globalised and weaponised.

    How is trade being weaponised in global politics?

    • Trade is increasingly being used as a strategic tool by countries, intertwined with national security concerns. Nations impose tariffs, subsidies, and other economic measures as defensive actions to protect domestic industries and geopolitical interests.
    • Technologies and supply chains are viewed through a national security lens, leading to greater control over economic interactions.

    Note: Economic and military power comes under hard power.

    What implications does this weaponization of trade have for India and its foreign relations?

    • Rising Protectionism: India has responded to this trend by imposing over 30 anti-dumping measures against Chinese goods in 2024 alone. These defensive actions are meant to shield Indian industries from what is perceived as China’s predatory pricing strategies.
    • Impact on Global Supply Chains: As global supply chains become more transnational, India’s ability to secure its interests, especially in high-tech sectors, becomes crucial.
      • India is balancing its integration into the global economy while protecting critical sectors from foreign influence, especially from China.
    • Foreign Relations: India’s foreign policy is increasingly being shaped by economic security concerns.
      • Trade disputes, such as those with China, have prompted a re-evaluation of economic partnerships and collaboration within frameworks like the Indo-Pacific to reduce dependency on potentially adversarial nations.

    What historical context informs India’s current approach to trade and international relations?

    • China’s Entry into WTO (2001): India, like many other countries, faced economic repercussions when Chinese goods flooded global markets after China joined the WTO. This led to job losses and industrial competition.
    • Globalization and Job Losses: The rapid globalization of the past 25 years has contributed to domestic job losses and dissatisfaction in various sectors in India.
    • Strategic Autonomy: India’s foreign relations have historically been guided by a principle of strategic autonomy.
      • This informs its cautious stance on fully integrating into global supply chains without safeguarding critical industries, and influences its desire to promote reforms in Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to suit developing nations’ needs.

    Way forward:

    • Strengthening Domestic Industries: India should continue enhancing self-reliance through initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on boosting high-tech sectors and reducing dependency on foreign imports, especially from adversarial nations like China.
    • Diversifying Trade Partnerships: India must deepen economic ties with friendly nations and regional alliances such as the Indo-Pacific, while advocating for reforms in global trade systems like the WTO and MDBs to ensure fair competition and support for developing economies.

  • The status of the civil war in Sudan

    Why in the News?

    On September 26, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) initiated a significant offensive against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum and Bahri. As a result, the conflict, which had been relatively calm for several months, has reignited with increased intensity.

    What is the extent of the war? 

    • Duration and Scope: The civil war has lasted for over 18 months, initially erupting from a power struggle between the two military factions—the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). What began in Khartoum has spread to various regions, including Omdurman, Bahri, Port Sudan, El Fasher, and areas in Darfur and Kordofan.
    • Casualties and Displacement: The UN reports over 20,000 fatalities since the conflict began. Additionally, the International Organization for Migration estimates 10.89 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) as of October 1.
    • Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Access to aid and healthcare has become severely restricted, particularly in Darfur. 
      • The UN has declared famine in specific camps like Zamzam, affecting nearly 500,000 IDPs. Currently, 25.6 million people—more than half of Sudan’s population—face critical food insecurity.

    How have ethnic tensions and rivalries played a part in the war? 

    • Ethnic Conflict: The war has evolved beyond a military rivalry, intensifying along ethnic lines. The RSF, composed of predominantly Arab militias, has been involved in targeting non-Arab communities, such as the Masalit, particularly in the Darfur region.
    • Militia Involvement: Various regional ethnic militias have taken sides in the conflict, complicating the dynamics further. The SAF has allied with the Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement, while the RSF has garnered support from Arab militias.
    • Historical reason: Ethnic tensions are rooted in historical grievances, exacerbating violence and leading to retaliatory attacks between communities, which have fueled the conflict.

    What are the implications for the region?

    • Mass Displacement: Over two million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This has strained resources in host countries and raised concerns about a potential migrant crisis in Europe.
    • Ethnic Clashes in Neighboring Regions: The instability in Sudan has triggered ethnic violence along the borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia, particularly in contested areas like Abyei and El Fashaga.
    • Economic Impact: The ongoing conflict jeopardizes essential infrastructures, such as oil pipelines from South Sudan to the Red Sea, threatening regional economic stability.
    • Cross-Border Tensions: A lack of effective governance in Sudan has led to increased ethnic tensions and clashes in border regions, which could have wider implications for regional security and stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Facilitate Peace Talks: India can leverage its diplomatic relations with the conflicting factions (SAF and RSF) to encourage dialogue and support peace initiatives through multilateral platforms like the African Union and the UN.
    • Strengthen Regional Alliances: India can collaborate with neighbouring countries (Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia) to manage the refugee crisis and promote stability through joint security initiatives.

  • United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)

    Why in the News?

    According to the UNAIDS Director, without India’s significant contribution, the world is unlikely to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

    What is HIV/AIDS?

    • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases.
    • AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection, where the immune system is severely damaged, leading to life-threatening infections and cancers.
    • HIV is transmitted through contact with infected body fluids, such as blood, semen, and breast milk.
    • Although there’s no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can manage HIV and prevent the progression to AIDS.

    India’s progress in reducing HIV Infections

    • From 2010 to 2023, India reduced annual new HIV infections by 44%, which is better than the global average.
    • India has also made impressive progress in reducing AIDS-related deaths by nearly 80% between 2010 and 2023, surpassing the global average.
    • Challenges:
      • In 2023, India saw 68,000 new infections, meaning around 185 people were infected each day.
      • The Global AIDS Strategy calls for 80% of prevention services to be delivered by community-led organizations.
      • These organizations are best placed to reach key populations, but they need adequate resources and space to lead these efforts.

     

    About UNAIDS (Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS):

    Details
    Established In 1996, by United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
    Headquarters Geneva, Switzerland
    Main Purpose To coordinate global action to combat HIV/AIDS, prevent infections, and support those affected
    Mandate • Coordinate the global response to HIV/AIDS
    • Support countries in HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment strategies
    • Advocate for human rights and equality in access to HIV services
    Principle Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV (GIPA), endorsed by the UN in 2001 and 2006
    Global Targets 90-90-90 targets:
    90% diagnosed, 90% on treatment, 90% virally suppressed by 2020
    Global AIDS Strategy 2021-2026: Aim to end inequalities driving HIV and ensure 30 million on treatment by 2025
    Cosponsors 11 UN organizations, including UNICEF, WHO, UNDP, UNESCO, World Bank
    Key Areas of Focus Supporting countries to meet SDG 3: End AIDS by 2030.

    • HIV prevention
    • Treatment access
    • Human rights advocacy
    • Gender equality
    • Youth and adolescents
    Funding Donors include governments, private foundations, and corporations
    Key Campaigns World AIDS Day (December 1), global awareness and advocacy efforts
    Achievements Significant progress toward the 90-90-90 targets, especially in countries like South Africa, Cambodia, and Eswatini

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following diseases can be transmitted from one person to another through tattooing?

    1. Chikungunya
    2. Hepatitis B
    3. HIV-AIDS

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] International Energy Efficiency Hub

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the signing of a ‘Letter of Intent’ that will enable India to join the International Energy Efficiency Hub (Hub).

    About the International Energy Efficiency Hub

    • The Hub was established in 2020 as the successor to the International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC), of which India was already a member.
    • It is a global platform that promotes collaboration and energy efficiency among governments, international organizations, and the private sector.
    • Members: As of July 2024, 16 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, the European Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the US, and the UK.)
    • The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a statutory agency, has been designated as the implementing agency for India’s participation in the Hub.

    Significance for India

    • India will benefit from opportunities to collaborate with other member states as a member.
    • India can share its expertise and learn from international best practices in energy efficiency.
    • The country will also contribute to global efforts to address climate change by promoting energy-efficient technologies and practices.
    • India’s participation will:
      • Accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
      • Improve energy security by adopting more efficient energy practices.

    Back2Basics: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) 

    Details
    Establishment Established in March 2002 under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001
    Objective To promote energy efficiency and conservation, reduce energy intensity, and enhance energy security
    Governing Body Functions under the Ministry of Power, Government of India
    Key Functions • Develops energy efficiency policies and strategies
    • Implements energy conservation programs
    • Coordinates with various sectors like industry, transport, and municipalities on energy efficiency
    • Promotes R&D in energy conservation technologies
    Key Initiatives • Standards and Labeling Program (Star rating system for appliances)
    • Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme (for energy-intensive industries)
    • Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) (for commercial buildings)
    • National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE)
    • Energy Efficiency Financing Platform (EEFP)
    Important Programs • National Energy Conservation Awards
    • Demand Side Management (DSM)
    • Street Lighting National Program (SLNP) (LED streetlight replacement)
    Goals • Reduce energy intensity in India
    • Improve energy efficiency in key sectors like agriculture, industry, buildings, and appliances
    • Contribute to sustainable development and reduce greenhouse gas emissions
    International Cooperation Collaborates with UNDP, World Bank, and ADB on energy efficiency projects globally
    Legislative Framework Operates under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001
    Achievements • Significant reduction in carbon emissions
    • Supports India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] On which of the following, can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?

    1. Ceiling fans

    2. Electric geysers

    3. Tubular fluorescent lamps

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • How India could play a meaningful role in the conflict in West Asia

    Why in the News?

    With escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, India’s Ministry of External Affairs she emphasized the need to prevent regional escalation, urging all parties to resolve issues through dialogue and diplomacy for stability.

    Can India act as a mediator in the Iran-Israel conflict? 

    • India maintains strong strategic and economic ties with both Israel and Iran, allowing it to communicate with both parties. This balanced relationship positions India as a potential neutral mediator.
    • India’s stature on the global stage is rising, and its history of non-alignment and support for peaceful dialogue gives it credibility. However, balancing its strategic partnerships with Israel, Iran, and key Arab states will be challenging.

    What are India’s strategic interests in West Asia?

    • Energy Security: West Asia is crucial for India’s energy needs, supplying about 80% of its oil imports. A wider conflict could disrupt these supplies and increase energy prices, impacting India’s economy significantly.
    • Economic Ties: India has invested heavily in its relationships with West Asian countries, viewing the region as an extension of its neighborhood. This includes trade partnerships and investments, particularly with major Arab nations and Israel.
    • Security Concerns: India shares concerns with both Iran and Israel regarding terrorism, particularly threats emanating from Pakistan and Afghanistan. This common ground could facilitate dialogue but also complicates India’s diplomatic balancing act.

    How does India’s relationship with regional powers influence its role?

    • Regional Dynamics: Other regional players such as Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey also influence the situation. Qatar has been active in mediating between conflicting parties, while Egypt’s geographical proximity to Gaza positions it as a key player in ceasefire discussions.
      • Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in the Islamic world adds another layer of complexity to India’s diplomatic efforts.
    • Multi-faceted Role: While India maintains strong defense and economic relations with Israel, it also relies on Iran for energy supplies and has historical ties to various Arab nations.
      • Balancing these relationships is critical for India’s foreign policy strategy.

    Way forward: 

    • Diplomatic Engagement and Back-Channel Diplomacy: India can leverage its balanced ties with Israel, Iran, and key Arab states to facilitate back-channel communication, focusing on de-escalation and humanitarian relief.
      • India’s non-aligned stance and growing global influence position it as a credible facilitator for peaceful dialogue.
    • Multilateral Approach: India should work through international forums like the United Nations and coordinate with other regional players like Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. This multilateral engagement would enhance its role while avoiding the risks of taking sides in the conflict.

  • China-Vietnam red diplomacy 

    Why in the News?

    Vietnamese President’s recent trip to China seeks to rekindle the historical ties and camaraderie between Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh, to strengthen political trust in their bilateral relationship strategically.

    Current Diplomatic Relationship between China and Vietnam:

    • Revived Political Trust: Vietnamese President to Lam’s visit to China sought to revive the historical comradeship between Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh.
      • This visit aimed to strategically strengthen political trust and enhance the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two communist nations.
    • Joint Statement on Cooperation: Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to advancing socialism and expressed their desire to build a “Vietnam-China community with a shared future.”
    • Economic and Strategic Agreements: The visit resulted in 14 agreements covering areas such as connectivity, infrastructure, healthcare, and media.
      • Trade between the two nations remains robust, with China being Vietnam’s largest import market and a significant investor. Bilateral trade in 2023 reached $171.9 billion.

    How do recent events reflect the complexities of Vietnam’s foreign policy towards China?

    • Bamboo Diplomacy: Vietnam’s foreign policy, known as “Bamboo Diplomacy,” is based on flexibility and resilience.
      • It aims to maintain strong ties with multiple global powers, including China, while also hedging its bets with the U.S., India, Russia, and Japan to counterbalance Chinese dominance.
    • Economic Dependence vs. Strategic Hedging: Vietnam’s growing economic interdependence with China, reflected in trade and investment, contrasts with its efforts to hedge against over-reliance by fostering ties with other global players. This balancing act illustrates Vietnam’s pragmatic approach to foreign policy.

    Challenges Vietnam Faces in Maintaining Sovereignty Amid Growing Chinese Influence:

    • Territorial Disputes: The ongoing territorial contestation over the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea poses a significant challenge for Vietnam.
    • Economic Dependence: While Vietnam benefits from economic ties with China, the growing trade deficit and increased Chinese investments create a dependency that could challenge Vietnam’s autonomy in decision-making, especially in strategic areas like infrastructure and connectivity.
    • Strategic Hedging and Sovereignty: Vietnam’s efforts to hedge against Chinese influence through partnerships with the U.S., Japan, and India.

    Note: Hedging refers to a strategic approach taken by a country to safeguard its interests and security in a complex and uncertain environment.

    Way forward:

    • Enhance Bilateral Engagement: India should deepen its strategic partnership with Vietnam through increased economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and joint defense initiatives.
    • Support Regional Multilateralism: India should actively participate in regional forums and initiatives that promote multilateral cooperation, such as the Quad and ASEAN-led dialogues.

  • Why Chagos Islands matter?

    Why in the News?

    • British Foreign Minister announced that the deal with Mauritius has settled the long-standing dispute over the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, the UK’s last overseas territory in Africa.
      • The agreement also ensures the long-term future of the Diego Garcia military base, which is jointly operated by the UK and US.

    About Chagos Islands (Archipelago)

    • The Chagos Archipelago is a group of 58 islands located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 500 km south of the Maldives.
    • It is a strategically significant area, with one of its islands, Diego Garcia, serving as a key military base jointly operated by the UK and US.
    • The archipelago has been at the centre of a decades-long sovereignty dispute between the UK and Mauritius.

    Key Deals and Agreements Related to the Chagos Archipelago

    1. British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Formation (1965)

    • The UK established the BIOT, incorporating the Chagos Archipelago.
    • The islands were detached from Mauritius before its independence.
    • Mauritius received a grant of 3 million pounds from the UK as compensation for the detachment.

    2. UK-US Agreement on Diego Garcia (1966)

    • Britain and the US signed a defense agreement, making the BIOT available for joint military purposes.
    • Diego Garcia became a key military outpost due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean.
    • The land for the military base was acquired in 1967, and in 1971, the plantation on Diego Garcia was shut down.
    • The BIOT administration passed an Immigration Ordinance, which prohibited residents from remaining on the island without a permit. This led to the forced expulsion of around 2,000 Chagossians, many of whom were resettled in Mauritius and the UK.

    3. United Nations and International Court of Justice (ICJ) Involvement

    • 2017: The UN General Assembly requested the ICJ to issue an advisory opinion on the legal status of the Chagos Islands.
    • 2019: The ICJ ruled that the UK’s continued administration of the islands was illegal, and the detachment of the islands from Mauritius in 1965 was not done with the free consent of the Chagossians. The UNGA adopted a resolution calling on the UK to withdraw from the Chagos Archipelago within six months.

    4. UK-Mauritius Agreement (2023)

    • After years of dispute, Mauritius and the UK reached an agreement over the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands.
    • Under this agreement:
      • The UK has ceded its claims over the islands.
      • Mauritius is allowed to implement a resettlement program on the islands, excluding Diego Garcia.
      • The UK retains sovereignty over Diego Garcia, allowing the military base to remain operational for an initial period of 99 years.
      • A new trust fund is being created for the benefit of Chagossians.

    Why did the UK keep Diego Garcia Base?

    • US-UK Defense Agreement: The base is vital for joint military operations, allowing rapid deployment in critical areas.
    • Global Operations Hub: Key for US air and naval missions during conflicts like the Gulf War and War in Afghanistan.
    • Geopolitical Control: Ensures a strong US-UK presence in the Indian Ocean to counteract other powers, especially China.
    • Strategic Location: Diego Garcia monitors the Malacca Strait and other essential global trade routes, especially energy supplies.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Discuss the political developments in Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause of concern to India?

  • In France, a summit for diplomacy, tech and diversity

    Why in the News?

    France is set to host more than 100 heads of state, government leaders, and senior officials for the 19th Francophonie Summit on October 4-5, 2024.

    How can Technology Enhance Diplomatic Efforts Between India and France?

    • Digital Collaboration: The summit emphasizes cooperation in digital technology, which can strengthen ties through joint projects, knowledge sharing, and innovation in areas like AI and cybersecurity.
    • Facilitating Communication: Technology, particularly AI, can enhance communication between diplomats and stakeholders, enabling more efficient exchanges and negotiations in multiple languages.
    • Showcasing Innovations: Events like the FrancoTech Fair will provide platforms for Indian and French innovators to collaborate on addressing common challenges, fostering deeper bilateral relations through shared technological advancements.

    What Role Does Diversity Play in Shaping Diplomatic Strategies?

    • Cultural Exchange: Emphasizing multilingualism and cultural diversity fosters mutual understanding and strengthens relationships, allowing for more nuanced diplomatic interactions.
    • Inclusive Decision-Making: Acknowledging diverse perspectives helps create more representative and effective diplomatic strategies, ensuring that various stakeholders are considered in negotiations.
    • Promotion of Values: Embracing diversity aligns with the core values of democracy and human rights, which can enhance the credibility and appeal of diplomatic efforts.

    What are the Implications of Global Cooperation in Addressing Contemporary Issues?

    • Shared Responsibility: Global cooperation is essential for addressing challenges like climate change, health crises, and digital governance, promoting collective action and resource sharing among nations.
    • Strengthening Multilateral Institutions: Enhancing cooperation leads to reforms in institutions like the UN, World Bank, and IMF, making them more effective and responsive to global needs.
    • Fostering Innovation: Collaborative efforts among nations can drive innovation in technology and policy, enabling quicker and more effective responses to pressing global issues and facilitating knowledge exchange.

    Way forward: 

    • Establish Joint Innovation Initiatives: India and France should create collaborative platforms for research and development in emerging technologies, focusing on areas like AI, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure to enhance diplomatic relations and tackle common global challenges.
    • Promote Multicultural Diplomatic Engagement: Both nations should prioritize cultural exchanges and inclusive dialogue that reflect diverse perspectives, thereby strengthening mutual understanding and fostering more effective and representative diplomatic strategies.

  • Places in news: Palk Strait

    Why in the News?

    The Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai ferry service has been resumed along the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka after 40 years.

    About Palk Strait

    Location Narrow water body separating Tamil Nadu, India, and Sri Lanka.
    Name Origin Named after Robert Palk, a British Raj-era Governor of Madras Presidency (1755-1763).
    Geographic Boundaries Southern boundaries include Pamban Island (India), Adam’s Bridge (shoals), Gulf of Mannar, and Mannar Island (Sri Lanka).
    Connection Connects the Bay of Bengal in the northeast with the Gulf of Mannar in the southwest.
    Alternate Name Southwestern part of the strait is known as Palk Bay.
    Dimensions Width varies from 64 to 137 km, length is approximately 137 km, and depth is less than 330 feet (100 meters).
    River Inflows Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu flow into the Palk Strait.
    Historic Context
    • Key maritime link between India and Sri Lanka, facilitating trade, cultural exchanges, and religious pilgrimages.
    • Played a vital role in the British colonial trade routes, but ferry services were halted due to the 1964 cyclone and the Sri Lankan civil war in 1983.
    Present Significance Supports regional trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections, while fostering economic development in both India and Sri Lanka.