China’s growing assertiveness in the Ind-Pacific region and South China Sea and ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict will figurre prominently in the Naval commanders’ conference here from September 17 to 20. Giving details, officials said here on Monday,  Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will address the second edition of Naval Commanders’ Conference.

It is the apex level biannual event facilitating deliberations on significant strategic, operational and administrative issues between the Naval Commanders. Held against the backdrop of evolving geo-political and geo-strategic dynamics, regional challenges and complexity in maritime security situation in West Asia, the Conference plays a crucial role in shaping future course of Indian Navy.

During the Conference, Rajnath will address the Naval Commanders on matters pertaining to national security and national expectations. The Chief of Defence Staff along with the Chiefs of Indian Army and Indian Air Force will engage with Naval Commanders to foster collaborations amongst the three Services across spectrum of conflict and convergence towards theaterisation.

The Conference will commence with the inaugural address by the Chief of the Naval Staff and he will review major Operational, Materiel, Logistic, HR Development, Training and Administrative activities pursued by the Indian Navy over last six months and deliberate upon key milestones to be crossed to safeguard maritime interests.

The Indian Navy has responded with strength and resolve against emerging threats of drones and missiles affecting safety of trade, demonstrating its capability as _Preferred Security Responder_ in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The Commanders will also review the ongoing Naval projects to enhance indigenisation through _’Make in India’_ in consonance with the vision of complete _Aatmanirbharta_ by 2047.

Towards Navy’s commitment to protect India’s maritime interests in the region, the Conference would witness comprehensive review of the Operational preparedness, inter alia discussions on the Navy’s capability enhancement plan, promoting national vision of indigenisation, self-reliance and realising combat effectiveness of Naval forces.

The Commanders’ Conference as pivotal platform upholds Navy’s commitment to safeguard India’s maritime interests and Navy’s status as a ‘combat ready, credible, cohesive and future ready force.’