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India has raised serious concerns at the United Nations regarding attacks on commercial shipping and growing threats to international maritime trade.
On October 29, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, addressed a UN Security Council open debate on emerging technologies and maritime security.
India strongly condemned attacks against commercial vessels and called for protecting freedom of navigation and unimpeded maritime commerce.
The Indian representative highlighted the dangers associated with disruptions at important maritime chokepoints.
Why are maritime chokepoints important?
International trade depends heavily on a few strategically located waterways.
Some of the most important include:
These waterways connect major industrial centres, energy-producing countries and international consumer markets.
Any military confrontation or disruption in these areas can affect shipping schedules, insurance costs and the prices of essential commodities.
For India, the Strait of Hormuz is particularly important because of its connection to energy imports from the Persian Gulf.
The Red Sea route is also important for India's trade with Europe.
The role of emerging technology
India also highlighted the importance of technology in maritime security.
Modern maritime monitoring increasingly relies on satellite surveillance, artificial intelligence, advanced communication systems and unmanned platforms.
These technologies can help identify suspicious vessels, monitor shipping routes and improve coordination between maritime authorities.
However, technology can also be misused by hostile actors, making international cooperation increasingly important.
What is India's larger objective?
India wants to establish itself as a responsible maritime power that supports international law and freedom of navigation.
This position is important for a country whose economy depends heavily on international trade.
It also strengthens India's diplomatic voice in discussions involving the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East and the wider global maritime order.
Strategic conclusion
For India, maritime security is not simply a naval issue. It is directly connected to national economic security, energy independence and international trade.