Climate change poses a significant threat to security in the Indo-Pacific region, with 89 million people at risk of displacement by 2050. The Pacific Island Countries (PICs) are facing the brunt of climate change, with some likely to become submerged or uninhabitable in the next few decades. India has extended its role as a regional power to the Pacific-sphere of the Indo-Pacific region to cooperate with island nations on climate action. The region is increasingly susceptible to adversities, including loss of life and livelihood, reduced biodiversity, and food insecurity. However, the climate security challenges of the PICs are often overlooked in the midst of major power competition. China's Belt and Road Initiative, including climate cooperation with the PICs, is tied to its political allies, and the USA has pledged $200 million to the PICs, but delivery has been delayed due to domestic politics.
Island nations in the Indo-Pacific face challenges in obtaining climate funds and financial resources to address climate change. They lack access to private market finance and rely on multilateral funding, with countries like Fiji, Tuvalu, Palau, and Nauru not qualifying for developmental assistance. India has recognized these challenges and has provided assistance to the Pacific Island states, positioning itself as the net security provider in the region. India has invested in solar power projects, grants, and concessional lines of credit to support climate action-based projects. Many Pacific Island states are full members of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), an international organization co-founded by India, which focuses on solar energy. India's support for the interests of the island states and its commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific has been instrumental in addressing these challenges.
India has launched Climate Early Warning Systems in countries like Tonga, Vanuatu, and Fiji, and awarded 13 Small Island Developing States with climate resilient infrastructure projects. However, these states still face challenges in accessing climate funds and financial resources for climate action. Cooperation with other middle powers, such as Australia and France, could help strengthen resilience and security in the Indo-Pacific region. India recognizes these nations as "large ocean states with vast potential" and has provided them with the opportunity to address climate change in the Indo-Pacific Island way.
The Katchatheevu island issue, a maritime dispute between India and Sri Lanka, has resurfaced in India's electoral campaign, with implications for the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments on the issue have sparked public outcry, casting doubt on the INC-led government's decision to cede control of the island. India's Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, has also attacked the INC and DMK, accusing them of shirking responsibility. Jaishankar questioned the motives behind surrendering the island and the fishing rights of Indian fishermen, despite assurances given to Parliament in 1976. He emphasized the need for diplomatic dialogue with Sri Lankan authorities to seek resolution. Jaishankar dismissed the notion that the issue suddenly arose, stating that it is a pressing issue requiring immediate attention.
The issue of the ownership of the island of Katchatheevu between India and Sri Lanka has been a topic of contention for years. The island, located in the Palk Strait, was a significant point of maritime dispute and political conflict between the two countries. In 1974, India relinquished control of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka as part of the Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement, causing concerns about the traditional rights of Indian fishermen. The transfer has remained contentious, particularly in Tamil Nadu politics, and the Sri Lankan civil war has further complicated matters. Prime Minister Modi's reference to Katchatheevu coincided with efforts to enhance bilateral economic cooperation between the two countries, including projects like underwater petroleum pipelines and electricity cable connections. However, any perceived shift in India's stance on Katchatheevu could potentially impact these efforts and jeopardize plans for a road linkage project.
Katchatheevu, a small uninhabited island in Sri Lanka, holds significant historical and religious importance for Tamil fishermen from both India and Sri Lanka. Despite controversies and diplomatic responses, the ongoing dispute over the island persists. Sri Lanka has maintained a policy based on historical facts, with evidence dating back to 1924. The issue of Katchatheevu first surfaced in 1921 during discussions to demarcate fisheries boundaries between India and Ceylon. Subsequent bilateral talks, including the 1974 Agreement, established Sri Lanka's sovereignty over the island. However, Sri Lanka argued that no fishing rights were conferred upon Indian fishermen or vessels to engage in fishing in Sri Lankan waters. In 1976, an Agreement on the Maritime Boundary between Sri Lanka and India further clarified the positions established by the 1974 Agreement.
The historical claim over Katchatheevu between India and Sri Lanka remained contentious until the mid-seventies, with both countries asserting ownership based on conflicting documents. Despite legal challenges, Indian governments have affirmed Katchatheevu's status as Sri Lankan territory, signaling reluctance to reopen negotiations. Prime Minister Modi's remarks and EAM's press conference have triggered debates and raised concerns about bilateral cooperation and regional stability. The issue carries significant weight for the ruling dispensation in New Delhi, as it could open a new front in the ongoing electoral battle.
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