The volume argues that India must take the lead role in establishing ocean management for littoral countries to maintain maritime stability and good order in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The volume discusses how maritime sphere of influence has become a dominant factor in global affairs. Ninety per cent of the world’s trade travels by sea, major international trade centres and economic powers are located on the coast and thirty six per cent of the world’s oceans are encompassed within the exclusive economic zone. There is a strong link between economy and the world’s oceans, and hence good order at sea is essential. After end of the Cold War when the liberalization process commenced, India realized the importance of its role in maintaining peace, security and stability in the IOR as a responsible maritime state. Fourteen papers in this volume examine the current and future prospects of maritime stability and good order in the IOR and approach India should adopt.