NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday highlighted India’s growing stature as a preferred security partner in the Indian Ocean region, while commending the navy’s efforts in maintaining peace across the strategic area. He also urged the force to remain vigilant amid a volatile global environment.
Speaking at the Naval Commanders’ Conference, Singh remarked, “A significant portion of the world’s trade passes through this region, making it highly valuable. However, challenges such as piracy, hijacking, drone and missile attacks, and the disruption of sea cable connections add to its sensitivity.”
Singh praised the Indian Navy’s critical role in safeguarding the economic interests of Indo-Pacific nations and ensuring the smooth movement of goods in the Indian Ocean, particularly noting the international recognition of its anti-piracy efforts. However, he cautioned against complacency and encouraged the navy to stay prepared for evolving geopolitical and regional security challenges.
The conference, chaired by Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, concludes on Friday.
Singh also noted that over two-thirds of the navy’s modernization budget in the past five years has been spent on indigenous procurement, leading to accelerated growth of the domestic defence industry. He urged the navy leadership to further enhance the Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative, aiming for full self-sufficiency by 2047.
In a statement, the defence ministry emphasized the conference’s importance, set against the backdrop of shifting geopolitical landscapes, regional challenges, and complex maritime security issues in West Asia.
Singh also underscored the need for jointness and efficient use of resources, referencing the Joint Commanders’ Conference on September 5 in Lucknow. There, he advocated for a unified vision to prepare for future conflicts and deliver coordinated, swift, and proportional responses to threats. The military is set to present its theaterisation model blueprint to the government for approval soon.
