New Delhi, India – The Indian Navy is rolling out an exciting initiative called IOS SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), aiming for closer cooperation with nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). This event will take place annually, with the next one planned for late March to May 2026.
Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff, shared insights during the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) held from October 28-30. He mentioned that this time, the initiative will focus on Southeast Asia. “Security and maritime safety can’t be managed by any single nation. We need to work together,” he said.
The IOS SAGAR initiative first kicked off in April 2023 when Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched it from the Karwar naval base in Karnataka. This mission emphasizes India’s dedication to regional maritime safety and showcases its role as a “preferred security partner” in the IOR.
The theme for the 2025 IPRD is “Promoting Holistic Maritime Security and Growth.” Vice Admiral Sobti explained the original vision for IOS SAGAR: to create a ship crewed by members from participating nations who could monitor exclusive economic zones collectively. While this grand idea is still in the works, the Indian Navy took the lead by providing the ship and inviting naval crews from nine other countries.
For nearly a month, INS Sunayna, an Indian Navy Offshore Patrol Vessel, patrolled the southwest Indian Ocean, visiting ports in Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, and Port Victoria. This mission marked a commitment to forging stronger maritime relationships and promoting a more secure environment in the region.
During the IPRD, experts from around 20 countries are discussing key security issues. Vice Admiral Sobti indicated that outcomes from this conference could lead to actionable recommendations not just for India, but for all participating nations.
The dialogue serves as a meeting ground for strategic leaders, policymakers, and maritime specialists, aiming to address pressing challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. This year’s conference presents an opportunity for nations to share insights and feedback, promoting collaboration that benefits everyone involved.
As this initiative unfolds, it reflects a growing awareness that security in the vast Indian Ocean is a shared responsibility. Collaboration among nations could reshape the maritime landscape, making it safer and strategically more stable for all.
For more in-depth insights, visit the National Maritime Foundation to explore regional maritime strategies and policies.
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INDIA MARITIME SECURITY, IOS SAGAR ON IOS SAGAR, IOS SAGAR GOING TO BE ANNUAL EVENT: VICE ADMIRAL SOBTI
