India–Sri Lanka Relations
1. Historical Background
Ancient Ties: Buddhism spread from India to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE when Emperor Ashoka sent his son Mahinda and daughter Sanghamitta to the island. This established deep cultural and religious bonds that continue to this day. Shared linguistic and trade exchanges also contributed to close ties.
Colonial Period: During British rule, Indian Tamils were taken to Sri Lanka as plantation workers in the 19th and 20th centuries. This created a significant Tamil population in Sri Lanka, which later became a point of political contention.
Post-Independence: Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948, and India immediately established diplomatic relations. The early decades were marked by friendly ties, with both nations cooperating in trade, culture, and regional politics.
2. Major Disputes
Ethnic Issue: From 1983 to 2009, Sri Lanka witnessed a brutal civil war between the Tamil Tigers (LTTE) and the Sri Lankan state. India was directly involved, particularly after signing the Indo–Sri Lanka Accord in 1987, which sought to grant autonomy to Tamils. India also sent the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF), which had mixed results and faced resistance.
Fishermen Issue: The Palk Strait and Katchatheevu island remain contentious, with frequent arrests of Indian fishermen who cross maritime boundaries. This has created recurring tension, especially in Tamil Nadu.
Katchatheevu Island: The island was ceded to Sri Lanka in 1974 through a bilateral agreement, but Indian fishermen still claim traditional rights. The dispute continues to be politically sensitive.
3. Areas of Cooperation
Trade & Economy: India is Sri Lanka’s largest trading partner. The India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (1998) boosted commerce, making India one of Sri Lanka’s top export destinations.
Development Assistance: India provides major lines of credit and has funded infrastructure projects including housing schemes, railways, ports, and cultural centers.
Security & Defence: Both nations conduct joint naval exercises and share intelligence to counter terrorism and ensure maritime security in the Indian Ocean.
Cultural Ties: Shared Buddhist heritage and the Ramayana trail strengthen cultural diplomacy. India also supports restoration of cultural sites in Sri Lanka.
Humanitarian Support: India has extended aid during times of crisis, including after the 2004 tsunami and during the 2022 economic crisis by supplying fuel, food, and medicines.
4. Current Status (2015–2024)
India played a crucial role in assisting Sri Lanka during its 2022 economic crisis by providing nearly $4 billion in aid, including fuel, food, and medicines. Renewable energy cooperation is expanding, with joint projects in Trincomalee, solar, and wind energy.
India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy aligns with Sri Lanka’s role as a key maritime partner in the Indian Ocean. However, China’s Belt and Road Initiative projects, including Hambantota Port (leased to China for 99 years) and the Colombo Port City, present strategic challenges for India.
5. Challenges
- Fishermen issue in Palk Strait and around Katchatheevu island remains unresolved.
• Growing Chinese strategic presence in Sri Lanka.
• Domestic Tamil issue and its political sensitivity in Tamil Nadu.
• Trade imbalance concerns.
6. Way Forward
- Resolve fishermen disputes through cooperative frameworks and joint management.
• Balance trade relations by giving greater market access to Sri Lankan goods.
• Expand renewable energy and infrastructure connectivity projects.
• Strengthen cultural diplomacy through Buddhist tourism and Ramayana circuit projects.
• Strategically balance China’s influence by offering credible alternatives and ensuring Sri Lanka’s sovereignty is respected.