(b) The Indian Ocean is the third largest water body of the world that has vital sea lanes of communication. Around 80 per cent of the world’s seaborne oil trade passes through the choke points of this ocean. Thus, it has many strong geo-political benefits including its adjacent countries. There is an accelerated expansion of maritime forces and their capabilities in this region. Hence, both the given statements are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)