Indian Defence News – The second phase of the first edition of the biannual Naval Commanders' Conference 2025, held from April 7 to 11 at Nausena Bhawan in New Delhi, concluded successfully, marking a significant step in shaping the Indian Navy’s strategic and operational priorities.
Chaired by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, this apex-level conference focused on addressing maritime security challenges, enhancing operational readiness, and fostering tri-service synergy to bolster India’s role as a key maritime power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The four-day deliberations in Phase II featured a comprehensive review of operational, material, logistical, human resource, training, and administrative aspects of the Indian Navy.
Admiral Tripathi emphasized a seven-point agenda to strengthen the Navy’s capabilities, including war-fighting efficiency, integration of new technologies, fleet maintenance, and operational agility.
He stressed the importance of a “cohesive and credible approach” to meet India’s obligations in the IOR, particularly in light of evolving geopolitical scenarios.
A key highlight of the conference was the release of several pivotal publications, including the Indian Navy’s Space Vision, Operational Data Framework, Naval Aviation Safety, and a veteran-focused compendium titled Navy for Life and Beyond.
These documents underscore the Navy’s commitment to innovation, safety, and long-term welfare for its personnel.
The conference facilitated high-level interactions with senior military and civilian leaders. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, along with the Chiefs of the Army and Air Force, engaged with naval commanders to enhance jointness and interoperability among the three services.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri provided insights into the shifting global security architecture, while India’s G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, discussed the Navy’s role in supporting India’s geopolitical objectives.
Building on the first phase held on April 5 in Karwar, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR and inaugurated critical infrastructure under Project Seabird, Phase II reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to a safe, secure, and rules-based maritime environment.
The conference highlighted India’s strategic vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions), with initiatives like IOS Sagar promoting cooperation with IOR nations.
In a statement, the Indian Navy emphasized its resolve to remain a “Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive, and Future Ready” force, capable of addressing emerging challenges while supporting national interests. The deliberations also focused on indigenization through the Make in India initiative, aligning with the goal of achieving complete AatmaNirbharta (self-reliance) by 2047.
The Naval Commanders' Conference 2025 has set a robust roadmap for the Indian Navy, reinforcing its pivotal role as a preferred security partner in the IOR and a principal enabler of peace and stability in the region.