Establishment of the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation (2026): UPSC Current Affairs Story Arc

Overview

This arc tracks India’s strategic pivot to deepen its 'Act East Policy' through a dedicated maritime focus. Starting at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit in October 2025, India proposed making 2026 the landmark year for maritime collaboration. This initiative evolved from a diplomatic declaration into a formal 5-year Plan of Action (2026-2030) adopted in early 2026. The arc highlights India’s dual-track approach: strengthening regional bonds through ASEAN Centrality while simultaneously pursuing bilateral breakthroughs, such as the rupee-denominated trade and security talks with Malaysia. It signifies a move beyond traditional trade toward a comprehensive 'Blue Economy' and security partnership in the Indo-Pacific.

How This Story Evolved

India declared 2026 as Maritime Year (Item 5) → ASEAN and India renewed commitment and discussed initiatives (Item 3) → Adopted Plan of Action to operationalize the year (Item 4) → India and Malaysia initiated specific maritime security discussions (Seed)

1. 2025-10-09: India Emphasizes Maritime Cooperation with ASEAN
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India declared 2026 as ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.

   Key Facts:

   • 2026 designated as the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation.
   • India reaffirmed commitment to ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).
   • Proposed Centre for Southeast Asian Studies at Nalanda University.
2. 2025-10-26: India and ASEAN Strengthen Maritime Security and Trade Ties
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India and ASEAN strengthen maritime security and trade ties.

   Key Facts:

   • India and ASEAN renewed commitment to strengthening cooperation in maritime security and trade.
   • 2026 designated as 'ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation'.
   • India's trade deficit with ASEAN increased from $9.66 billion in 2016-17 to $43.57 billion in 2022-23.
   • ASEAN remains India's fourth-largest trading partner, accounting for 11% of India's global trade.
   • Review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is underway.
3. 2026-02-06: India & ASEAN Adopt Plan of Action for Maritime Cooperation
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India & ASEAN adopt Plan of Action for maritime cooperation.

   Key Facts:

   • A new ASEAN-India Plan of Action for 2026-2030 was adopted.
   • The meeting was co-chaired by Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, and Theresa P Lazaro of the Philippines.
   • 2026 is declared as the 'ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation'.
4. 2026-02-09: India-Malaysia Relations
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India and Malaysia diplomatic relations since 1957.

   Key Facts:

   • India and Malaysia established diplomatic relations in 1957.
   • Malaysia is a very important partner for India in South East Asia.
   • Transactions are promoted in Malaysian currency and Indian Rupees between both countries.
   • Cooperation in maritime security and people-to-people relations are being explored.
5. 2026-02-13: India, ASEAN reaffirm commitment to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India and ASEAN reaffirm commitment to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

   Key Facts:

   • 26th Meeting of the ASEAN-India Joint Cooperation Committee (AIJCC)
   • ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP)
   • Plan of Action (POA) to Implement the ASEAN India Partnership for Peace, Progress and Shared Prosperity (2021-2025)
   • Plan of Action (POA) to Implement the ASEAN India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2026-2030)
   • 2026: ASEAN India Year of Maritime Cooperation
   • 35th anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations in 2027
6. 2026-02-19: Rajnath Singh Interacts with ASEAN Navy Chiefs at MILAN 2026
   More details

   UPSC Angle: Rajnath Singh interacts with ASEAN Navy Chiefs at MILAN 2026.

   Key Facts:

   • Rajnath Singh addressed Navy Chiefs and heads of delegations from 74 countries during the inauguration of MILAN 2026 in Visakhapatnam.
   • MILAN 2026 is the largest and most inclusive edition to date.
   • India's approach to the seas has evolved into the vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR).
   • Rajnath Singh interacted with Navy Chiefs and Naval delegations from nine ASEAN member states at MILAN 2026.
   • MILAN 2026 has grown from 4 foreign navies in 1995 to 74 nations in February 2026.
   • ASEAN is a central pillar of India's Indo-Pacific strategy.
   • MILAN 2026 Naval exercise was held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
   • Rajnath Singh addressed Navy Chiefs and heads of delegations from 74 countries.
   • The MILAN exercise has grown from its modest 1995 beginnings with four foreign navies to its largest-ever edition in February 2026, involving 74 nations.
   • Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla attended the event.

Genesis

Trigger

The arc was triggered on October 9, 2025, at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where Prime Minister Modi declared 2026 as the 'ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.'

Why Now

The declaration comes at a critical juncture where the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is underway to address India's massive trade deficit, alongside growing security concerns in the Indo-Pacific that necessitate a unified maritime response.

Historical Context

It builds on the 1990s 'Look East Policy' and the 2014 transition to the 'Act East Policy,' moving from mere economic integration to strategic and maritime security alignment.

Key Turning Points

1. [2025-10-09] India declares 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.

   It shifted the partnership focus from general trade to a specific maritime and Indo-Pacific security orientation.

   Before: Engagement was broad-based under Act East. After: 2026 became the target year for specialized maritime operationalization.

2. [2026-02-06] Adoption of the ASEAN-India Plan of Action for 2026-2030.

   It institutionalized the maritime year proposal into a concrete five-year policy framework.

   Before: Maritime Year was a proposal. After: It is part of a legally and diplomatically binding five-year action plan.

Key Actors and Institutions

Key Institutions

• Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
• Nalanda University
• ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)

Key Concepts

ASEAN Centrality

The concept that ASEAN should be the primary architecture and driver for regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.

Current Fact: India reaffirmed its commitment to ASEAN Centrality during the summit on October 9, 2025.

Blue Economy

Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem.

Current Fact: India proposed 2026 as the Year of Maritime Cooperation specifically to enhance collaboration in the Blue Economy.

Trade Deficit

An economic measure of a negative balance of trade where a country's imports exceed its exports.

Current Fact: India's trade deficit with ASEAN grew from $9.66 billion in 2016-17 to $43.57 billion in 2022-23.

What Happens Next

Current Status

As of February 9, 2026, India and Malaysia have initiated deep bilateral discussions on maritime security and local currency (Rupee/Ringgit) trade to reduce dollar dependence.

Likely Next

The formal launch of the 2026 Year of Maritime Cooperation activities, focusing on joint naval exercises, blue economy projects, and the establishment of the Southeast Asian Studies Centre at Nalanda University.

Wildcards

Potential disruptions in the South China Sea impacting ASEAN unity; the pace of AITIGA modernization affecting trade relations; or shifts in US-China competition in the Indo-Pacific.

Why UPSC Cares

Syllabus Topics

• Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
• Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism

Essay Angles

• Indo-Pacific: The New Theatre of Global Diplomacy
• Maritime Security as a Pillar of India's Foreign Policy
• Balancing Trade Deficits with Strategic Partnerships

Prelims Likely: Yes

Mains Likely: Yes

Trend Signal: rising

Exam Intelligence

Previous Year Question Connections

• Look East Policy transition and synergy in Asia-Pacific neighborhood. — This arc is the latest evolution of the policy transition mentioned in the PYQ, moving from 'Look East' to a maritime-centric 'Act East'.
• Objectives of Act East Policy including strategic relationships and economic cooperation. — The arc directly implements these objectives through the AITIGA review and the maritime security discussions with Malaysia.

Prelims Angles

• 2026 is designated as the 'ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation'.
• The proposed Centre for Southeast Asian Studies is located at Nalanda University.
• ASEAN is currently India's fourth-largest trading partner (11% of global trade).
• India and Malaysia are exploring Rupee-Ringgit trade settlements to de-dollarize.

Mains Preparation

Sample Question: Critically analyze the significance of designating 2026 as the 'ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation' in the context of India's rising trade deficit and the evolving security architecture of the Indo-Pacific.

Answer Structure: Intro: Contextualize the 2025 Summit declaration. → Body 1: Economic imperative (AITIGA review, trade deficit stats). → Body 2: Strategic dimension (ASEAN Centrality, maritime security, countering regional dominance). → Body 3: Institutional framework (Plan of Action 2026-30, Nalanda University centre). → Critical Analysis: Challenges of implementation vs. rhetorical diplomacy. → Conclusion: Way forward via Blue Economy and bilateral currency settlements.

Essay Topic: The High Seas: India's Frontier for Economic Prosperity and Strategic Autonomy.

Textbook Connections

Key Takeaway

The 2026 Maritime Year is India's strategic pivot to convert a transactional trade relationship with ASEAN into a permanent maritime security and Blue Economy partnership, aimed at mitigating economic imbalances while securing the Indo-Pacific.

All Events in This Story (6 items)

1. 2025-10-09 [International Relations] — India Emphasizes Maritime Cooperation with ASEAN
   At the 22nd ASEAN–India Summit in Kuala Lumpur, India declared 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation to enhance collaboration in the Blue Economy. India reaffirmed its commitment to ASEAN Centrality, Unity, and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). India proposed setting up a Centre for Southeast Asian Studies at Nalanda University to enhance academic and cultural exchange.
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India declared 2026 as ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.

   Key Facts:

   • 2026 designated as the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation.
   • India reaffirmed commitment to ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).
   • Proposed Centre for Southeast Asian Studies at Nalanda University.
2. 2025-10-26 [International Relations] — India and ASEAN Strengthen Maritime Security and Trade Ties
   India and ASEAN have renewed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in maritime security and trade, viewing their partnership as crucial for regional stability and sustainable growth in the Indo-Pacific. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of unity in combating terrorism and proposed initiatives to deepen engagement, including designating 2026 as the 'ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation'. Discussions also focused on accelerating economic integration through modernization of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India and ASEAN strengthen maritime security and trade ties.

   Key Facts:

   • India and ASEAN renewed commitment to strengthening cooperation in maritime security and trade.
   • 2026 designated as 'ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation'.
   • India's trade deficit with ASEAN increased from $9.66 billion in 2016-17 to $43.57 billion in 2022-23.
   • ASEAN remains India's fourth-largest trading partner, accounting for 11% of India's global trade.
   • Review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is underway.
3. 2026-02-06 [International Relations] — India & ASEAN Adopt Plan of Action for Maritime Cooperation
   On February 6, 2026, India and ASEAN adopted a new ASEAN-India Plan of Action for the next five years, during the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Malaysia, co-chaired by Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita. This plan aims to expand cooperation and give impetus to maritime activities, as 2026 has been declared the 'ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation'.
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India & ASEAN adopt Plan of Action for maritime cooperation.

   Key Facts:

   • A new ASEAN-India Plan of Action for 2026-2030 was adopted.
   • The meeting was co-chaired by Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, and Theresa P Lazaro of the Philippines.
   • 2026 is declared as the 'ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation'.
4. 2026-02-09 [International Relations] — India-Malaysia Relations
   India and Malaysia have established diplomatic relations since 1957, making Malaysia a vital partner for India in Southeast Asia. Both countries are engaging in discussions focused on reducing dependence on the US dollar by promoting transactions in Malaysian currency and Indian Rupees. Enhanced cooperation in maritime security and people-to-people relations are also being explored.
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India and Malaysia diplomatic relations since 1957.

   Key Facts:

   • India and Malaysia established diplomatic relations in 1957.
   • Malaysia is a very important partner for India in South East Asia.
   • Transactions are promoted in Malaysian currency and Indian Rupees between both countries.
   • Cooperation in maritime security and people-to-people relations are being explored.
5. 2026-02-13 [International Relations] — India, ASEAN reaffirm commitment to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
   ASEAN and India reaffirmed their commitment to advance the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) at the 26th Meeting of the ASEAN-India Joint Cooperation Committee (AIJCC). Both sides reviewed progress in ASEAN-India cooperation across all three pillars of the ASEAN Community and expressed satisfaction with the implementation of the Plan of Action (POA) to Implement the ASEAN India Partnership for Peace, Progress and Shared Prosperity (2021-2025).
   More details

   UPSC Angle: India and ASEAN reaffirm commitment to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

   Key Facts:

   • 26th Meeting of the ASEAN-India Joint Cooperation Committee (AIJCC)
   • ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP)
   • Plan of Action (POA) to Implement the ASEAN India Partnership for Peace, Progress and Shared Prosperity (2021-2025)
   • Plan of Action (POA) to Implement the ASEAN India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2026-2030)
   • 2026: ASEAN India Year of Maritime Cooperation
   • 35th anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations in 2027
6. 2026-02-19 [International Relations] — Rajnath Singh Interacts with ASEAN Navy Chiefs at MILAN 2026
   Defence Minister Rajnath Singh interacted with Navy Chiefs and delegations from nine ASEAN member states at MILAN 2026 in Visakhapatnam, emphasizing India's commitment to its 'Act East Policy' and MAHASAGAR vision. He invited ASEAN partners to benefit from India's defence technology ecosystem, highlighting INS Vikrant and Visakhapatnam-class destroyers. The discussions covered complex maritime drills and a shared commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
   More details

   UPSC Angle: Rajnath Singh interacts with ASEAN Navy Chiefs at MILAN 2026.

   Key Facts:

   • Rajnath Singh addressed Navy Chiefs and heads of delegations from 74 countries during the inauguration of MILAN 2026 in Visakhapatnam.
   • MILAN 2026 is the largest and most inclusive edition to date.
   • India's approach to the seas has evolved into the vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR).
   • Rajnath Singh interacted with Navy Chiefs and Naval delegations from nine ASEAN member states at MILAN 2026.
   • MILAN 2026 has grown from 4 foreign navies in 1995 to 74 nations in February 2026.
   • ASEAN is a central pillar of India's Indo-Pacific strategy.
   • MILAN 2026 Naval exercise was held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
   • Rajnath Singh addressed Navy Chiefs and heads of delegations from 74 countries.
   • The MILAN exercise has grown from its modest 1995 beginnings with four foreign navies to its largest-ever edition in February 2026, involving 74 nations.
   • Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla attended the event.