Landmark Agreement with Mauritius
India Strengthens Satellite Tracking Network Near Diego Garcia: India and Mauritius have signed a historic agreement to establish a satellite tracking and communication station near Diego Garcia, located in the Chagos archipelago. This pact enhances India’s reach in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) at a time of rising Chinese maritime presence. The agreement was finalized during Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam’s visit to India.
Why Diego Garcia Matters
The Chagos Islands hold immense strategic value, sitting at the crossroads of East Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. The island of Diego Garcia hosts a major US-UK naval and air base, which has been pivotal in military operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Gulf. By establishing a station nearby, India gains a mix of satellite monitoring capabilities and geopolitical leverage in the Indo-Pacific region.
Static GK fact: The Chagos Archipelago consists of more than 60 small islands spread across the central Indian Ocean.
Terms of the Agreement
India has recognized Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Islands while simultaneously respecting the UK’s military control over Diego Garcia. This unique “dual recognition” strengthens India’s diplomatic alignment and ensures smoother strategic access. PM Narendra Modi hailed the move as a “historic milestone”, emphasizing India’s support for decolonization and regional cooperation.
Static GK fact: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2019 advised that the UK should end its control over the Chagos Islands, backing Mauritius’ claim.
Expanding Maritime and Space Cooperation
The agreement goes beyond satellite tracking. India will assist Mauritius in joint hydrographic surveys, navigational charting, and training of coast guard officers. Indian support will also include the refitting of Mauritius Coast Guard vessels and expanding cooperation in the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). These steps further strengthen maritime security in the Indian Ocean.
Static GK Tip: Mauritius’ EEZ spans about 2.3 million sq. km, one of the largest in the world relative to its land size.
Strategic Significance for India
The establishment of this facility serves as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence in the IOR. It improves India’s ability to track satellites and launch vehicles, while also signaling stronger partnerships with small island nations. The development highlights India’s ambition to become a leading maritime power in the Indo-Pacific.
Static GK fact: India operates several ground stations for satellite tracking, including those at Byalalu (Karnataka) and Port Blair (Andaman and Nicobar Islands).
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Strengthens Satellite Tracking Network Near Diego Garcia:
| Topic | Detail |
| Agreement signed with | Mauritius |
| Location of station | Near Diego Garcia, Chagos Islands |
| Strategic value | Key point in Indian Ocean, close to East Africa, Middle East, South Asia |
| Military presence | US-UK base at Diego Garcia |
| India’s gains | Satellite tracking, Indo-Pacific leverage |
| Mauritius benefit | Maritime security, vessel refit, officer training |
| India’s recognition | Mauritius sovereignty over Chagos Islands |
| Chinese angle | Counters growing Chinese naval activity |
| Supporting statement | PM Modi called it a “historic milestone” |
| International reference | ICJ backed Mauritius’ claim in 2019 |
