India Prioritises AI and Maritime Security in Its Bid for the 2028–29 UN Security Council Seat

India has identified Artificial Intelligence (AI) and maritime security as key priorities for its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028–29 term. The announcement reflects India's growing focus on addressing emerging global security challenges through technological innovation, international cooperation and stronger maritime protection.

Speaking at a high-level UN Security Council debate, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, highlighted the growing role of technology in protecting international shipping routes and maintaining peace and stability. He emphasised that oceans are essential to global trade, connecting economies and supporting food and energy security. Therefore, ensuring safe and uninterrupted maritime activities is important for countries across the world. India's position also underlines the need to ensure that technological advancements contribute to international security while remaining accessible to developing nations.

India is contesting for a non-permanent Council seat with a two-year term starting in 2028 | NDTV

Artificial Intelligence to Transform Maritime Security

India has highlighted the potential of AI, satellite surveillance, autonomous systems and advanced cybersecurity technologies in strengthening maritime security. These technologies can help monitor vessel movements, identify suspicious activities, improve maritime surveillance and enable faster responses to potential threats.

AI-powered systems can also support search-and-rescue operations, disaster management and the protection of important maritime infrastructure. However, India has emphasised that the growing use of automated technologies must be accompanied by appropriate safeguards, human oversight and clear accountability.

Another important concern is ensuring that developing countries have fair access to emerging technologies. India believes that international cooperation, technical training and capacity-building are essential to prevent technological inequalities from widening.

Protecting Maritime Routes and International Trade

The safety of international shipping routes has become increasingly important amid geopolitical tensions and threats to commercial vessels. Major maritime routes and chokepoints facilitate the transportation of essential commodities, including crude oil, natural gas, food supplies and manufactured goods. Any disruption can affect global supply chains, increase transportation costs and create economic uncertainty.

India has consistently emphasised freedom of navigation, the protection of commercial shipping and the safety of seafarers in accordance with international law. It has also condemned attacks on commercial vessels and called for stronger international cooperation to maintain secure maritime corridors.

India's own maritime security operations reflect this commitment. Its naval deployments in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea have helped facilitate the safe movement of merchant vessels carrying essential cargo and energy supplies, highlighting the country's contribution to protecting international trade.

India's Maritime Cooperation Through IFC-IOR and SAGAR

India has strengthened its regional maritime security efforts through initiatives such as the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), established in 2018. Based in Gurugram, the centre facilitates information-sharing and cooperation among countries to monitor maritime activities and respond to security challenges, including piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling and other unlawful activities.

India's broader maritime approach is guided by its SAGAR vision, which stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region. It promotes a secure, stable and cooperative Indian Ocean Region through partnerships, maritime capacity-building and coordinated security efforts.

India has also emphasised the importance of international frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and cooperation with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). These institutions play an important role in maintaining maritime order and promoting responsible use of international waters.

India's 2028–29 UNSC Candidature

India's candidature for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028–29 term reflects its intention to contribute to discussions on evolving international security challenges. The election is scheduled for June 2027, with India and Tajikistan competing for the Asia-Pacific Group's available seat.

By highlighting AI and maritime security, India is bringing attention to issues that increasingly influence international peace, economic stability and technological development. Its approach also stresses that global security frameworks must evolve alongside emerging technologies and provide developing countries with opportunities to participate meaningfully.

The MGMM Outlook 

India’s focus on Artificial Intelligence and maritime security as priorities for its 2028–29 United Nations Security Council candidature reflects its growing role in addressing emerging global challenges. By highlighting AI-powered surveillance, satellite technology, cybersecurity and autonomous systems, India is emphasising the importance of modern technology in protecting international shipping routes and strengthening maritime safety. Initiatives such as the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) and the SAGAR vision further demonstrate India's commitment to regional cooperation, freedom of navigation and the security of vital trade routes.

As global trade and technological development become increasingly interconnected, maritime security will remain essential for international economic stability. India's emphasis on responsible AI, equal access to technology for developing nations and stronger international partnerships highlights the need for an inclusive approach to global security. Its 2028–29 UNSC candidature also provides an opportunity to bring these emerging priorities into wider international discussions and strengthen India's contribution towards a secure, stable and cooperative global order.

(Sources: Business Standard, NDTV)