TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 160

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 160

1. Why is freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz a vital strategic interest for India?

Answer: The Strait of Hormuz is important because any disruption there can quickly affect India's energy security, inflation and external trade. India depends heavily on maritime routes for crude oil, LNG and merchandise trade. Conflict can increase oil prices, freight charges and insurance costs even without completely closing the Strait. In my view, India should support freedom of navigation without becoming part of military bloc politics. Its interests are best served through diplomacy, international maritime law, naval preparedness and diversified energy supplies. For India, maritime security is therefore not merely a defence issue; it is directly connected with economic security.

2. Can India maintain good relations with both Iran and the United States amid renewed tensions between them?

Answer: Yes, but it requires careful strategic autonomy. Iran matters to India for energy security, Chabahar and connectivity with Afghanistan and Central Asia. At the same time, the United States is a major economic, technological and strategic partner. Renewed sanctions make this balance more difficult because third countries may face pressure while trading with Iran. India should therefore avoid automatic alignment with either side. It should judge individual decisions according to national interest, international law and commercial viability while consistently supporting dialogue. Strategic autonomy means having multiple partnerships without allowing one relationship to dictate every other relationship.