International Relations: March 2025 Current Affairs | Current Affairs & General Knowledge - CLAT PDF Download

India-Mauritius Relations

Why in News?

During the recent visit of the Indian Prime Minister to Mauritius, both nations formalized several agreements focused on trade, maritime security, and defense. This visit marks a significant step in enhancing regional cooperation and elevating the bilateral relationship to a more strategic partnership. The Prime Minister was also honored with Mauritius' highest national award, the 'Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean.'

Key Takeaways

• Enhanced Strategic Partnership: The ties between India and Mauritius have been strengthened, focusing on security, trade in local currencies, and development initiatives.
• Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): Both countries agreed to ratify a protocol amending the DTAA to comply with international treaty standards.
• MAHASAGAR Initiative: India launched the MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) initiative aimed at boosting engagement with the Global South.
• Security Cooperation: Collaboration on the usage of Agalega Island's new runway and jetty, with India reaffirming its support for Mauritius’ claim over the Chagos Archipelago.
• Developmental Support: India announced a rupee-denominated Line of Credit to assist Mauritius in upgrading its water pipelines.
• New Parliament Building: India will construct a new Parliament building in Mauritius as a gesture of goodwill.
• Multilateral Engagements: India committed to working with Mauritius in various regional and international forums.

Additional Details

• Maritime Significance: Mauritius' strategic location in the western Indian Ocean positions it as a key maritime partner under India’s SAGAR initiative.
• Countering China: The strengthening of ties helps India secure its strategic interests in the face of China's growing influence in the region.
• Cultural Links: Approximately 70% of Mauritius' population is of Indian descent, fostering strong cultural ties and celebrations.
• Leading Development Partner: India has been a vital development ally for Mauritius, supporting major infrastructure projects.
• Disaster Assistance: India has been a first responder in various crises, providing crucial aid during natural disasters.
• Capacity Building: Mauritius benefits significantly from India's training programs, enhancing local governance capabilities.

In conclusion, the recent developments in India-Mauritius relations signify a robust strategic partnership characterized by mutual cooperation in trade, security, and development. The initiatives like the MAHASAGAR vision and infrastructural support are pivotal in fostering regional stability and economic growth, underlining the importance of this partnership for both nations.

India’s Energy Strategy

Why in News?

India has committed to increasing its oil and natural gas imports from the US, with energy trade expected to rise from USD 15 billion to USD 25 billion in the near future. This initiative is part of a broader objective to double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion. The decision enhances India’s energy security while strengthening economic ties amid global geopolitical shifts.

Key Takeaways

• India is the world’s 3rd-largest oil importer, relying on imports for over 85% of its crude oil needs.
• The primary energy demand in India is projected to nearly double by 2040, necessitating stable supply sources.
• Expanding energy trade with the US will diversify sources and reduce dependency on West Asia and Russia.
• The US aims to be a leading supplier of competitively priced crude and LNG to support India’s industrial growth.
• Stronger US-India energy ties can help counterbalance China's influence in global energy markets.

Additional Details

• Energy Security: India’s reliance on crude oil imports has increased to 87.8% in 2023-24, with domestic production meeting less than 13% of total demand. Future projections indicate crude oil consumption will grow at a CAGR of 4.59% to reach 500 million tonnes by FY40.
• Infrastructure Boost: The US’s competitive pricing aims to enhance India's refining capacity, supporting industrial growth and petrochemical investments.
• Natural Gas and Cleaner Fuels: India plans to raise the share of natural gas in its energy mix to 15% by 2030 from the current ~6% and aims to import 31.80 billion cubic meters (bcm) worth USD 13.405 billion in LNG for 2023-24.
• Ethanol Blending Target: India targets a 20% ethanol blending by 2025-26, aiming to reduce fossil fuel reliance, with a production capacity of around 1,600 crore litres as of September 2024.

In conclusion, India's energy needs are driven by its economic growth and rising demand, necessitating a diversified import strategy and increased domestic production. By expanding its energy relationships, particularly with the US, India aims to ensure energy security while transitioning to cleaner energy sources.