Suryaa International Desk: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that maritime security and the diversification of supply chains are essential to address changing security equations and geopolitical challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. He was speaking as the chief guest at the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD-2026) held in New Delhi.
Singh emphasized that regional nations must coordinate to overcome increasing disruptions in international trade routes and shared challenges. He indirectly warned that some countries are attempting to misuse the importance of sea lanes for their own selfish interests. He called for building robust systems capable of withstanding crises while leveraging the growing interdependence among global nations.
Regarding technological development, he expressed the view that such advancements should benefit all countries in the region rather than being limited to a few, noting that otherwise, it could lead to inequalities between nations.
Rajnath Singh reiterated that India advocates for a free, fair, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted India's maritime development initiatives, including the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the 'Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047' roadmap. He affirmed India's commitment to working with partner nations for the maintenance of peace and order, maritime research, and sustainable economic growth.
The conference was attended by defense experts, diplomats, and naval leaders from various countries who discussed the security of Indo-Pacific maritime routes. Participants decided to move forward with joint strategies that incorporate modern technology to address future challenges in the maritime sector.
