Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that India’s vision is based on SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), focusing on fostering partnerships for sustainable development, economic growth, and mutual security. While addressing the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) 2024 in New Delhi on Friday, Singh also mentioned that India’s engagement with its partners is guided by the belief that collective action and synergy are essential for achieving actual progress. As a result of these efforts, India is now considered a credible and preferred security partner and first responder in the region.
Singh reaffirmed India’s steadfast commitment to a rule-based international order, respect for international law, and adherence to the principles outlined in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, considering them as the pillars of foreign policy. He stated, “India has consistently advocated for peaceful resolution of disputes and has aimed to facilitate cooperation among nations in the Indo-Pacific region, with a strong emphasis on the central role of ASEAN in promoting regional dialogue, stability, and collective growth.”
The Defence Minister emphasized that the Indian Armed Forces, especially the Navy, have been actively engaged in cooperative efforts with countries in the region, continuously striving to enhance their capacity and capabilities. “India is committed to maritime cooperation and its interests are not in conflict with any other country. Likewise, the interests of other nations should not conflict with each other. This is the spirit in which we should collaborate,” he added.
Singh emphasized that the global maritime landscape is rapidly evolving due to shifting power dynamics, resource competition, and emerging security threats. He stated that the Indo-Pacific theatre reflects a visible balancing of global power and has become the world’s most dynamic geopolitical zone, central to economic and strategic interests. The region also experiences pre-existing international tension, rivalry, and conflict, with challenges that have both local and global implications. A significant increase in geopolitical competition for marine resources is driven by growing populations and heightened demand, leading to increased tensions and competition among nations.
In his address, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi emphasized the importance of the oceanic spaces, particularly the Indo-Pacific, for India’s economic growth and security. He stressed that India’s maritime policy of SAGAR envisions collective prosperity and security for all in the region, advocating collaboration and cooperation as the principal means to achieve this goal.
The IPRD is an annual high-level regional strategic dialogue hosted by the Indian Navy. It aims to discuss the seven pillars of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). The conference began on October 3, 2024, focusing on the theme of “Resource Geopolitics and Security in the Indo-Pacific.” This year’s discussions will specifically address the “Marine Resources” and “Maritime Security” pillars of the IPOI.
Team BharatShakti
