Muskan Rai is a Research Associate at the National Maritime Foundation (NMF), New Delhi, specialising in multilateral maritime constructs and regional security dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region. Her research focuses on frameworks such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), and the Colombo Security Conclave, with an emphasis on India’s evolving maritime partnerships and institutional engagements.

She holds a Master’s degree in International Relations, Security, and Strategy from the Jindal School of International Affairs, O.P. Jindal Global University, and a Bachelor’s degree in History from Ramjas College, University of Delhi. Muskan began her journey at the National Maritime Foundation as a Research Intern, where she explored Odisha’s historical maritime linkages with East Asian nations, and currently serves as a full-time researcher at the Foundation.

Her published works include:

• A joint article titled “IORA at 28: India’s Chairmanship and the Path Forward”, co-authored with Mr John J Vachaparambil, Associate Fellow at NMF.
• A book review of She Captains: Heroines and Hellions of the Sea by Joan Druett.
• A book review of The Great Arc: The Dramatic Tale of How India was Mapped and Everest was Named by John Keay.

Muskan has also been actively involved in key institutional events such as the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue and international and national conferences, where she has contributed to strategic communications and speaker feedback initiatives. Her academic training and professional experience reflect a deep commitment to maritime affairs and regional diplomacy.

With skills in research writing, foreign policy analysis, and creative visual communication, she continues to advance maritime scholarship and public engagement through her work at NMF.

• Maritime History of India
• Pakistan-China Relations
• South China Sea

• Master’s Degree in International Relations, Security, and Strategy; Jindal School of International Affairs, OP Jindal Global University (2022-2024)
• Bachelor’s Degree in History; Ramjas College, University of Delhi (2016-2019)

Research Intern at National Maritime Foundation, New Delhi (Autex 2023)