India to Replace Troops in Maldives with Technical Personnel

India is set to replace its military forces stationed in the Maldives with "competent" Indian technical personnel, affirming New Delhi's continued role as a crucial development partner for the island nation. Following the second meeting of the high-level core group addressing military personnel concerns, it was decided that India would withdraw its troops from the Maldives between March and May.

However, the operation of two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft in the Maldives will persist with the assistance of Indian civilian replacements and Maldivian defence personnel. This decision was reached during the second core group meeting in Delhi on February 2, established following discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Mohamed Muizzu during the COP28 summit in Dubai in December.

Approximately 80 Indian military personnel are currently stationed in the Maldives for platform operations. Following the first core group meeting on January 14, the Maldives government set a March 15 deadline for the withdrawal. Sources indicate collaborative efforts between the two sides to ensure the uninterrupted operation of these three platforms, which is crucial for the Maldives' medical emergency services.

President Muizzu, perceived as a pro-China leader, formally requested the withdrawal of Indian military personnel shortly after assuming office in November, citing a "strong mandate" from the Maldivian people. He won the presidential election by promising to eliminate the Indian military presence in the Maldives. Just a month after the withdrawal request, the Muizzu government also announced the non-renewal of the previous government’s agreement with India on a hydrographic survey of Maldivian waters.