Questions and Activities
Explain who a maritime neighbour is with two examples with respect to India.
A maritime neighbour is a country connected to another by a shared sea or ocean, even without a direct land border. The ocean acts as a vital link, facilitating centuries of trade, cultural exchange, and historical ties.
Two examples of India's maritime neighbours:
1. Sri Lanka — an island nation located to the southeast of India, separated by the Palk Strait. At its nearest point, the distance between the two countries is only about 32 km, making it India's closest maritime neighbour.
2. The Maldives — a nation of over 1,100 islets located only about 130 km from Minicoy (part of India's Union Territory of Lakshadweep), making it an important maritime neighbour for trade and security in the Indian Ocean.
Other maritime neighbours mentioned in the chapter include Iran, Oman, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.
Answer: A maritime neighbour is a country connected by a shared sea or ocean, not necessarily a land border. India's maritime neighbours include Sri Lanka (across the Palk Strait, ~32 km away at the nearest point) and the Maldives (~130 km from Minicoy island).