Pearls vs Diamonds: Navigating the Influence of India and China

Whoever controls the Indian Ocean dominates Asia.

In the grand chessboard of the Indo Pacific, two rival strategies glitter like competing jewels, the “String of Pearls” and the “Necklace of Diamond “. These metaphorical adornments are not mere ornaments but powerful symbol of influence, control, and strategic ambition that shapes the future of maritime power in Asia.

Being consigned to much vibrancy due to its strategic trading routes and points of choke, India Ocean has a lot at stake. China and India, the rising powers in Asia, want to harness the Indian Ocean to meet their regional and global aspirations. This competition for regional influence has been the catalyst for geo-strategic rivalry over the Indian Ocean. China, through the String of Pearls strategy.

Necklace of Diamonds: India

The term “Necklace of Diamonds” was first introduced in August 2011 by a former foreign secretary, Lalit Mansingh, during an address before a think tank. Basically, India’s necklace of diamonds strategy is the countermeasure china’s String of Pearls. India came up with an alternative counterbalancing strategy called the ‘Necklace of Diamonds.’ The purpose of this strategy is on the counter, China or in simple words Surrounding strategy. India is expanding its Navy bases and is also improving relations. Countries were strategically placed to counter China’s strategies. Diamond defeat also includes building port, comprehensive coastal monitoring radar (CSR) Import of Art Monitoring Status to Track Chinese warships and submarines Aircrafts that can track sugar submarines, operate airports in neighboring country to keep a check at the port built by China, deepen defense relations, expand bilateral relations.

String of Pearls: China

China’s String of Pearls. It’s a strategy that China has put into action, creating a network of commercial and military bases across various countries and choke points like Strait of Hormuz, Strait of Malacca and Lombok Strait. This approach aims to safeguard its trade interests, especially since a significant portion of its trade flows through the Indian Ocean. China has created a Strategic Expansion of the Naval Footprint of its by building ports at locations like Chittagong in Bangladesh, Karachi and Gwadar port in Pakistan, as well as Colombo and Hambantota in Sri Lanka, among other facilities. Through the String of Pearls strategy, China is working to limit India’s sway in the Indian Ocean by building a network of strategically positioned allies.

Contesting for Taking Control

This region, located in and around the Indo-Pacific, became influential geopolitically and economically for both China and India because of its strategic sea routes, material resources, and growing influence on global trade and security.

China’s Pearls

1. Bangladesh

China has modernized the Chittagong Port and invested in Bangladesh’s infrastructure to secure vital commercial routes. Their naval presence here allows for strategic monitoring, with a keen eye on Mongla and Sonadia ports.

2. Sri Lanka

China took control of Hambantota Port through what many call debt-trap diplomacy, leasing it for a whopping 99 years. This port serves both commercial and military purposes, and the docking of Chinese spy ships has raised some serious security concerns for India.

3. Pakistan

With the CPEC project, China has a firm grip on Gwadar Port, which is crucial for both trade and military operations. The heavy investment from China positions Pakistan as a strategic ally to counter India’s influence in the region.

4. Myanmar

China is constructing a base on Small Coco Island to keep tabs on Indian naval activities and missile tests. Gaining access to Kyaukpyu Port enhances China’s military advantage in the Bay of Bengal.

5. Maldives

China’s control over Feydhoo Finolhu and the suspected dual-use resorts near Malé suggest some military intentions. Major infrastructure projects are deepening China’s economic ties and potential strategic influence in the region.

The Impact of China’s String of Pearls on India:

Strategic impact: The String of Pearls initiative is likely to diminish India’s dominant position in the Indian Ocean. As China builds and develops ports and bases in neighboring countries, India’s strategic influence in this region is expected to wane. This shift will give neighboring countries more options and bargaining power between India and China, with China likely having the upper hand.

Economic impact: This situation could negatively affect the Indian economy and hinder internal development projects, as the country may need to boost its defense budget due to rising security concerns. This could further heighten tensions in Southeast and East Asia.

Maritime security: India’s maritime security will undoubtedly face new challenges in the Indian Ocean due to China’s growing presence in the region, including the Bay of Bengal. This poses a significant threat to India’s safety at sea, especially as China expands its naval capabilities with more submarines, destroyers, ships, and vessels, all of which threaten Indian maritime security. 

Different of Diamond of Necklace

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Are crucial for India, serving as a key territory in its strategic plans. These islands play a vital role in helping India counter China’s assertiveness in the Indian Ocean, especially since about 60% of China’s total trade passes nearby. If tensions were to rise between India and China, India could effectively block China’s access to this route, delivering a significant blow to China’s economy. India has established three fully operational naval air stations on the islands for military purposes: INS Utkorsh in Port Blair, INS Baaz in Great Nicobar, and INS Kohassa in North Andaman.

 Indonesia

India is working on developing a deep-sea port in Sabang, located in Aceh province. This port is strategically positioned right at the mouth of the Malacca Strait, a well-known chokepoint for global trade. A significant portion of trade and crude oil destined for China passes through this area. India gained military access to Sabang port in 2018, which will enhance its military presence in the Indian Ocean and improve surveillance capabilities.

Singapore

the Changi Naval Base stands out as another important asset for India. Its strategic location near the Strait of Malacca makes it vital. In 2017, India and Singapore signed a bilateral naval cooperation agreement, granting the Indian Navy direct access to this base. This access allows for logistical support and refueling of ships at Changi, significantly countering China’s expansionist goals in the Indian Ocean.

Myanmar (Sittwe Port)

India is developing the Sittwe deep-water port in Myanmar as part of the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project, creating a direct trade and connectivity route to India’s northeastern states. This initiative, backed by a defense cooperation agreement from 2019, boosts India’s influence and strategic presence in the Bay of Bengal.

Bangladesh

India’s strategic partnership with Bangladesh includes access to the Chittagong and Mongla ports, along with the installation of 20 coastal surveillance radars. This collaboration allows India to keep an eye on and counter Chinese naval activities in the Bay of Bengal, strengthening India’s maritime defenses in the east.

Sri Lanka

India’s engagement in Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port area, coupled with the setup of six coastal surveillance radars, enhances its ability to monitor Chinese naval movements in the southern Indian Ocean. The potential development of a full-fledged airbase would further solidify India’s deterrent capabilities in the region.

Tajikistan

The creation of an Indian airbase in Tajikistan expands India’s strategic reach into Central Asia. Located near Dushanbe, this facility supports India’s broader security interests by offering operational flexibility in a region that’s becoming increasingly important geopolitically.

Maldives

India is taking advantage of the Maldives’ strategic position by rolling out coastal surveillance radars and starting the construction of a military base on Uthuruthilafalhu Island. This new infrastructure will greatly boost India’s ability to keep an eye on and respond to Chinese maritime activities in the central Indian Ocean.

Mongolia 

India is strengthening its relationship with Mongolia, highlighted by a $1 billion credit line and collaborative infrastructure projects. This move showcases India’s commitment to becoming a key player in the East Asian strategic scene. Improved air corridors are boosting economic and defense ties, helping both countries stand together against the growing influence of China.

Vietnam

India’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Vietnam focuses on maritime collaboration, joint naval drills, and satellite tracking capabilities from Hanoi. These initiatives enhance India’s ability to monitor and deter activities in the South China Sea, effectively countering China’s assertiveness in the region.

Iran (Chabahar Port) 

The Chabahar Port project in Iran is crucial for India, providing access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while also acting as a counterweight to China’s Gwadar Port in Pakistan. Its location near the Strait of Hormuz gives India a stronger foothold over vital energy shipping routes and helps to push back against Chinese influence in the Arabian Sea.

Mauritius (Agalega Island) 

The establishment of military facilities on Agalega Island underscores India’s dedication to safeguarding its interests in the western Indian Ocean. With surveillance radars and logistical infrastructure set up, the island becomes a key player in India’s strategy to balance China’s regional influence.

Chokepoints and Counters

Choke Points (Strait of Malacca & Strait of Hormuz)

The Strait of Malacca is essential for China’s energy imports, with a staggering 80% of its oil flowing through this narrow passage. To secure this vital route, China is building strong relationships with Malaysia and Singapore, and it maintains a military presence near Coco Island. Meanwhile, in the Strait of Hormuz, China is working to expand its influence through agreements with Iran, aiming to protect another key oil transit route.

Kenya, located on the eastern coast of Africa, plays a crucial role in the western Indian Ocean thanks to its port facilities, especially in Mombasa. With China’s investments through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), its influence in the region has grown, making Kenya a key player in its “String of Pearls” strategy. For India, strengthening defense and maritime ties with Kenya could provide a significant “diamond” in its counter-strategy, allowing better access to essential African sea routes and countering Chinese expansion.

Madagascar’s control over the Mozambique Channel a vital maritime chokepoint that connects the Indian and Atlantic Oceans gives it considerable geopolitical importance. China’s growing economic presence indicates its desire to weave Madagascar into its “String of Pearls” network. On the flip side, India could forge strategic partnerships or establish facilities on the island to safeguard this passage, enhancing Madagascar’s status as a key “diamond” in its Indo-Pacific maritime strategy.

Oman (Duqm Port) , having access to the Duqm Port on Oman’s southern coast is a game-changer for India, offering essential logistical support for naval operations in the western Indian Ocean. This strategic partnership enhances India’s ability to project its power and protect its maritime interests from Chinese expansion.

Seychelles (Assumption Island) India’s plan to develop a naval base on Assumption Island in Seychelles boosts its surveillance capabilities and operational reach in the southwestern Indian Ocean. Along with coastal radar installations, this base is part of India’s larger strategy to keep Chinese naval presence in check in the area.

Djibouti, China has established its first overseas military base at Doraleh Port, which helps it strengthen its influence in Africa and control crucial maritime routes near the Red Sea, Suez Canal, and Arabian Sea. While it’s officially designated for anti-piracy and peacekeeping efforts, this base also plays a significant role in military strategy for potential future conflicts.

Houthi Attack: Global Trade, Shipping, Challenges and Impact

Detecting the impact of Houthi insurgent activities on maritime traffic in the strategically vital Red Sea and Suez Canal routes key pathways for global trade is crucial. This analysis delves into how regional instability, highlighted by Houthi actions from the first attack on a merchant vessel on November 19, 2023, to February 5, 2024, has influenced maritime traffic patterns and the operational efficiency of these essential routes..

The Red Sea, which connects with the Suez Canal in the north and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait in the south, is one of the major world maritime chokepoints. About 14% of maritime trade worldwide and 30% of containerized trade worldwide pass through the Red Sea, which implies that blocking the Red Sea can seriously affect global maritime trade. About one-third of the specific attacks on commercial ships 31% on tankers and 24% on bulk carriers, corresponding to the predominance of these ship types in the normal Red Sea transits. A further 12% were attacks on other ship types.

Certain carriers have offered land routes to serve the regional markets generally accessible via the Red Sea, to avoid both the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and the Houthi presence. Hapag Lloyd offers land routing between Jeddah, Red Sea hub of Saudi Arabia, and the ports in the north of Saudi Arabia (Dammam and Jubail) and Jebel Ali port in Dubai .The other possibility is the IMEC corridor, which has recently been agreed upon. Launched by the Group of 20 (G20) leaders during their summit at India in September 2023, the project would cut distances in the transportation chain by 40%. There would be a sea leg that would connect West India to the UAE; a railway line would go through Saudi Arabia and Jordan to the Israeli ports; and a second sea leg would connect to southern European ports of Piraeus, Genova, and Marseilles

This Red Sea path chiefly provides for the supply of energy materials: crude oil, gasoline, LNG, coal, and coke. Any rise in supply costs for raw materials or supply delays will severely undermine manufacturing supply chains thereby causing inflation.

India–China Rivalry: Red Sea & West Indian Ocean Region

Location	Purpose	China’s Presence/Status	India’s Presence/Status
Red Sea	Major chokepoint for Europe–Asia trade; ~14% of global trade passes through	Military base in Djibouti; strategic cooperation with Houthi-sympathetic actors	No direct base; presence via Oman (Duqm Port) and regional partnerships
Bab-el-Mandeb Strait	Controls entry into Red Sea from Indian Ocean; vital for energy and trade	Surveillance via Djibouti base; naval escort missions under "anti-piracy" banner	Monitoring via Assumption Island (Seychelles) and Mauritius (Agalega)
Djibouti (Doraleh Port)	China’s first overseas military base; logistics and surveillance operations	Fully operational since 2017; supports Chinese PLA Navy’s far-sea operations	No base; India enhances influence via ties with Kenya, Oman, Seychelles
Oman (Duqm Port)	Strategic access point near Strait of Hormuz & Red Sea; logistics for westward naval projection	Limited economic engagement	Logistics and naval access agreement with Oman; dual-use port for Indian Navy
Seychelles (Assumption Island)	Expands surveillance over western Indian Ocean and shipping lanes to Africa	Diplomatic presence; indirect influence via island engagements	Developing military base and coastal radar network
Kenya (Mombasa Port)	Gateway to East Africa and western Indian Ocean trade routes	BRI-linked infrastructure projects; port investment and rail link development	Exploring maritime cooperation and defense ties; potential strategic “diamond”
Madagascar (Mozambique Channel)	Controls key trade lane between Indian and Atlantic Oceans	Expanding economic and diplomatic influence	Strategic engagement planned; could develop into a naval presence zone
Chabahar Port (Iran)	Connects India to Afghanistan, Central Asia; counter to Gwadar and Red Sea diversion route	Strategic ties with Iran; pursuing oil security and Belt & Road port cooperation	India developing Chabahar Port as part of INSTC and IMEC
IMEC Corridor	Alternative to Red Sea route; West India–UAE–Israel–Europe trade corridor	Not a participant; views IMEC as rival to BRI	Key architect and initiator; launched at G20 India 2023

Africa’s Significance: India-China Strategic Gain

The geostrategic location and resource wealth of Africa make it an important player in the coming Indo-Pacific order. The eastern seaboard of Africa connects to the Indian Ocean, where critical maritime sea lines of communication stem, making states bordering the Indian Ocean critical to maritime traffic, energy flows, and maritime security. Chokepoints such as the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and proximity to the Red Sea confine African states to the geography of a contested geopolitical space. Furthermore, Africa’s expansive and diverse mineral and rare earths resources and agricultural capabilities link it into the global resources economy. India at inclusive development, capacity-building, and South-South cooperation.

The Pan-African e-Network for telemedicine and education, and the SAGAR doctrine all highlight New Delhi’s notion of Africa and African countries as equal partners for development. India’s focus on education, healthcare, renewable energy and digital empowerment positions it as a credible and democratic alternative to China’s model of development. Chinese communities are also increasing their maritime and economic footprints in the region, China’s Africa policy, firmly rooted in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), confirms Africa as a linchpin within Beijing’s global ambitions. China has solidified its dominance through large-scale infrastructure projects, resource extraction contracts, and its growing digital and maritime influence, including the PLA’s first overseas naval base purposefully established in Djibouti. As such, Africa’s strategic posture is less relevant geographically it will be a critical influence in Indo-Pacific diplomacy, security, and development.

References:

Group of Twenty (G20). IMEC Corridor & Maritime Security Strategy. 2023. Shared Google document. https://share.google/unGYCqbx0cNtE7o2Z.

Hossain, Md M. String of Pearls and Necklace of Diamonds: Sino-Indian Geo-strategic Competition in the Indian Ocean. ResearchGate, 2023. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/367463371_STRING_OF_PEARLS_AND_NECKLACE_OF_DIAMONDS_SINO-INDIAN_GEO-STRATEGIC_COMPETITION_IN_THE_INDIAN_OCEAN.

International Journal of Advanced Research in Applied Science and Engineering Management (IJARASEM). Necklace of Diamonds: India’s Counter Strategy in the Indo‑Pacific. n.d. https://ijarasem.com/admin/img/6_Necklace%20of%20Diamonds.pdf.

International Journal of Research in Technology and Innovation (IJRTI). The Impact of China’s Strategy on India’s Maritime Security. 2022. https://www.ijrti.org/papers/IJRTI2210022.pdf.

International Transport Forum – OECD. Red Sea Crisis: Impacts on Global Shipping. n.d. https://www.itf-oecd.org/sites/default/files/repositories/red-sea-crisis-impacts-global-shipping.pdf.

Jha, Yashraj. “Necklace of Diamonds vs String of Pearls: India–China Standoff.” Times of India (Readers’ Blog), June 23, 2022. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/readersblog/youthwrites/necklace-of-diamonds-vs-string-of-pearls-india-china-standoff-43458/.

ResearchGate. Challenges and Security Risks in the Red Sea: Impact of Houthi Attacks on Maritime Traffic. 2024. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/384583351_Challenges_and_Security_Risks_in_the_Red_Sea_Impact_of_Houthi_Attacks_on_Maritime_Traffic.