International Relations GS 2 In the news 9 times

India's Strategic Interests in West Asia

West Asia (Middle East) is of multi-dimensional strategic importance to India: it hosts over 9 million Indian diaspora (the largest source of remittances — approximately $55-60 billion annually), supplies the majority of India's oil and gas, and is a critical trade route.

Key details

Indian diaspora in Gulf: ~9 million; primarily in UAE (3.5 mn), Saudi Arabia (2.4 mn), Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain
Remittances: India is the world's top remittance recipient; Gulf countries account for the largest share
Chabahar port (Iran): India's strategic port investment in southeastern Iran — provides non-Pakistan access to Afghanistan and Central Asia; directly impacted by Iran sanctions and conflict
Operation Kaveri (2023): India's evacuation operation from Sudan — India maintains capacity for Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO) in conflict zones
Look West policy: India's engagement strategy for West Asia under PM Modi

In the news

● Tracked since February 19, 2026 · last seen July 03, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes

03 Jul '26

West Asia Conflict: Khamenei's Death, Hormuz Closure, and India's Strategic Interests

International Relations

08 Jun '26

Iran and Israel Exchange Strikes for First Time Since April Ceasefire

International Relations

05 Apr '26

Strait of Hormuz Deadline: India's Diplomatic Tightrope in West Asia

International Relations

31 Mar '26