India’s geographical position gives it a unique edge for maritime growth. With over 11,000 km of coastline and access to vital shipping routes in the Indian Ocean, the country is in a prime spot for maritime activities. Historically, Indian coastal regions have a rich legacy of trade and seafaring. Yet, this aspect has often been overlooked in modern discussions. As India aims to transform into a developed nation by 2047, its maritime strategy will play a crucial role in that journey.
The Indian Navy has made notable strides in recent years. Beyond humanitarian missions, it has participated in joint exercises worldwide. The last five years saw the induction of nearly 20 new vessels, emphasizing our growing shipbuilding capabilities and the Navy’s ability to integrate advanced technologies. According to the Indian Navy, the commissioning of seven frontline ships in 2025 reflects a robust commitment to preparedness and innovation.
On Navy Day, it’s essential to look not just at the hardware but also at the underlying issues shaping our maritime future. Are we truly embracing our maritime heritage? Are we aware of the vast opportunities the sea offers? Building warships and ports is important, but awakening public consciousness about our naval legacy is equally critical.
A Rich Maritime Legacy
India’s maritime history is far from trivial. From Lothal’s ancient dockyards to the Chola dynasty’s naval expeditions, our ancestors recognized the sea as a key to opportunity and power. Works like Kautilya’s Arthashastra detail our historical maritime governance and trade practices. The resistance by figures like the Marakkars against colonial powers, and the coastal forts built to defend our shores, show a longstanding maritime culture that predates colonial rule.
Over time, however, India’s focus shifted inward due to land invasions and colonial influences. This change resulted in a lack of strategic maritime thinking. Many experts view this shift as a missed opportunity, as colonial forces exploited our neglect of the sea. Even post-independence, the focus remained on land borders, often overlooking maritime strategies with significant implications.
Reclaiming Our Maritime Identity
Today, the Indian Navy not only ensures peace in the Indian Ocean Region but also carries the weight of reviving our maritime consciousness. Recent initiatives, like the Maritime Information Sharing Workshop, signal a commitment to engaging both policymakers and the public. Events such as the Presidential Fleet Review aim to generate interest, especially among youth, who need to learn about our maritime influence throughout history.
A broader commitment is needed—one that embeds maritime education across our schools and public discussions. Ports should be viewed as vital instruments of influence, and we must celebrate naval families for their sacrifices and contributions to India’s maritime resurgence.
Looking Ahead
As we move beyond 2026, the Indian Navy must guide the nation in recognizing its maritime potential. The commissioning of INS Tamal signifies a pivotal shift in shipbuilding responsibilities to Indian enterprises. Consequently, our ports need modernization to become efficient hubs for trade, leveraging our geographical advantages. Future projects like Vizinjam and Galathia Bay must be recognized for their strategic importance.
In essence, a maritime doctrine rooted in collaboration and civilizational outreach can foster long-term partnerships. Our maritime strategy should not just be rhetoric or wartime tactics but should embrace our history and the profound ties between India and its oceans. This Navy Day, let’s commit to reviving our maritime identity—not merely out of nostalgia, but as a necessity. With a firm grip on our past and a forward-looking vision, India can navigate its future decisively.
Capt P Ratheesh (Author is a serving officer in the Indian Navy)
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