Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 5: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has emphasized the critical need for India's armed forces to adapt and redefine their future roles in response to the increasingly volatile global geopolitical environment.

Speaking to Naval Commanders at the inaugural session of the first Naval Commanders’ Conference of 2025 in Karwar, Karnataka, Singh highlighted the widespread consensus among global experts that the 21st century is "Asia's century," with India poised to play a pivotal role. He asserted, "It is our responsibility to ensure peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, as the region has become a focal point for the world."

During the conference, Singh reviewed the prevailing maritime security landscape, the operational readiness of the Indian Navy, and the strategic outlook for the future. He engaged in discussions with the Naval Commanders, focusing on contemporary security challenges, strategies to enhance the Navy's combat capabilities, and relevant strategic, operational, and administrative considerations.

The Defence Minister was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and other high-ranking officials.

In his address to the Commanders, Singh commended the Navy's significant contributions to strengthening India's maritime security, consistently exceeding public expectations, and demonstrating unwavering dedication to national service through innovation and renewed vigor.

Singh reiterated India's commitment to upholding a free, open, and rules-based order, in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He urged the Commanders to meticulously assess evolving circumstances and align their planning, resource allocation, and exercises accordingly, while maintaining a state of heightened alert and preparedness.

"Security is a dynamic and continuous process of adaptation, requiring constant assessment, planning, and the generation of new ideas," he stated. "We must analyze how India can enhance its effectiveness on the global stage."

Highlighting the paramount importance of national security to the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Singh affirmed that the government has consistently prioritized fulfilling the requirements of the Armed Forces.

"The pace of naval modernization over the past 10-11 years is unprecedented," he declared. "The induction of new platforms and state-of-the-art equipment has significantly bolstered our naval prowess and the morale of our brave sailors. This demonstrates our unwavering support for their preparations."