In today’s competitive global economy the deep seas play an even more significant role as they not only sustain commerce, but also enhance culture. The Indian Ocean ports handle almost 30% of trade, half of the world’s container traffic. Interestingly 55% of oil reserves and 40% of gas reserves lie in the depths of the Indian seabed. Energy security is vital for industrial and economic progress. A recent research by the Heidelberg Institute for Conflict Research also shows delegations. India, whose naval history can be traced back to 1612, was a significant contributor to this thought inspiring conference.
India’s Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Sunil Lanba who was a keynote speaker at the 7th Galle Dalogue 2016 International Maritime Conference is a Navigation specialist, having held many responsible sea and shore commands. He also served as the Executive Officer of the magnificent aircraft carrier INS Viraat.
Sharing some insights into the operations of the Indian Navy (IN) in fostering partnerships with Sri Lanka, and the entire region as a whole, he said the Indian Navy has an ambitious target of operating with a total fleet of 200 vessels by 2027. At present it takes pride in having 14 submarines in active service.
Admiral Lanba emphasized the role of the Navy in its Full Spectrum Capability, where they operate in a Military, Constabulary and Diplomatic role. The navy strives to ensure good order at sea and also partners with regional like-minded navies in controlling and eliminating the scourge of piracy, illegal immigration, smuggling, gun running and maintaining safety of offshore installations.
The good work of the navy has been a deterrent to international crime syndicates who engage in illicit activities. Vessels of the Indian navy are deployed in the Gulf of Aden and Horn of Africa engaging in anti-piracy patrols.
They also provide capacity building by enhancing various phases of development, of which an example would be the gifting of an OPV to Mauritius (Off Shore Patrol vessel). Sharing knowledge and building confidence via governments is also evident in the fact the presently 123 Sri Lankan naval officers are undergoing various aspects of training in India.
The Indian Navy plays a key role in coastal surveillance supplemented by the Indian Coast Guard, which was established in 1978. They aspire to promote real time information sharing especially in the area of preventing natural disasters.
The IN also trains extensively in humanitarian relief and has taken part in many such operations assisting countries that have been subject to such adverse conditions. We have witnessed their relief missions during the 2004 Tsunami.
The Admiral also pointed out the policy of the Prime Minister of India, which revolves around a concept of SAGRA - security and growth for all in the region. This is a clear indication that the Indian navy is tasked with maintaining consistent and cordial bonds with all other likeminded regional navies.
41 nations represented by top level naval delegations took part in the comference.