Naval Commanders’ Conference is an apex-level biannual event facilitating deliberations on significant strategic, operational and administrative issues among the Naval Commanders. 

• The MoD lauded the Indian Navy’s readiness towards safeguarding the maritime interests of the country, which has resulted in establishing its credibility as the first responder in the Indian-Ocean Region (IOR). 

Importance of Indian-Ocean Region

• Geopolitical: IOR is emerging as a new theatre for geo-political competition between global powers e.g., USA, France etc.
  • Hence, it is crucial for pursuing India’s vision of a net security provider, while also containing the rising footprint of China.
• Security: Incidents like piracy, hijacking, drone attacks, missile attacks and disruption of sea cable connections in the seas make it extremely sensitive.
• Economic: With 1/3rd of the world’s bulk cargo traffic and 2/3rd of the world’s oil shipments, IOR remains an important lifeline to international trade and transport.
• Climate Security: Indian Ocean has warmed faster than any other ocean since 1950s (IPCC report 2021). 
  • Prompt Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) by India is critical for sustaining its credibility as the first responder in the region.