India's ocean policy / by R. C. Sharma and P. C. Sinha
- New Delhi Khama Pub. 1994
- 246p.
The emerging law of the sea with a new meaning and emphasis on the significance of the marine environment envisages a global order of partnership. It has unfolded commonality of interest and also unforeseen conflict situations. Technological disparities among the nations of the world put severe impediments in attaining the desired outcome of the new law of the sea. The problems are being compounded at the local and regional levels. India being the entity in the South Asian realm, has a rich maritime heritage with vibrant regional links through the adjacent seas. Post Independence development strides have enabled this nation to forge marine resource-based euphoria. This is being epitomised in regular expeditions to Antarctica and attaining status of the 'pioneer investor'. The Government and the people attach great importance on account of the mounting pressure on the land-resources. The sea around holds the future of the nation.
In presenting a critical appraisal of the fabric of the nation's ocean policy, history and geography are brought in together. The maritime heritage and the marine resources and potentials are being appreciated. A focus is being placed on the conceptual framework of the Ocean Law and its meaning and implication to India, specially in the delimitation exercise of maritime boundaries in South Asia. The system of settlement of disputes under the new law of the sea with a focus on procedural details is being discussed to arrive at the basic rationale. The spirit of coexistence and mutuality of interests among the subcontinental nations provide much desired substance to the maritime issues and future stakes. Throughout, the basic ingredients of the Ocean Policy of India are being critically highlighted in order to develop a hierarchy of policy options. The making of India's Ocean Policy is a critical as well as a delicate exercise.
The present exercise is the first scholarly attempt to define and highlight India's Ocean Policy and a step towards a better comprehension and understanding of man-ocean relationship.