In his keynote at the expansive MILAN-2026 naval symposium in Visakhapatnam, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh outlined the dire spectrum of threats imperiling oceans worldwide: rampant piracy, terrorism at sea, illegal trawling, human and drug trafficking, cyber risks, and vulnerabilities in supply networks. Climate volatility is amplifying disasters, spiking needs for aid and recovery missions.
‘Not a single navy, no matter how advanced, can surmount these hurdles independently,’ Singh stated. Naval alliances are essential. The record 74-nation participation in MILAN signals India’s emergence as a pivotal, trustworthy maritime force, compelling joint action with esteem.
Synchronized voyages, integrated drills, and consultative huddles dissolve divides, nurturing shared perspectives. MILAN masterfully converges talents, fortifies trust, amplifies joint efficacy, and orchestrates unified countermeasures. Transitioning from regional roots to a flagship global event, it exemplifies India’s premier ongoing maritime initiative, weaving professional synergy with cultural bridges for perpetual amity.
India champions a lawful maritime paradigm safeguarding passage rights per international standards. An integrated global naval edifice can fortify it, securing conduits, neutralizing crimes like sea terror, and preserving territorial integrity. Embracing comprehensive collaboration for shared upliftment, India, as a genuine world ally, vows constructive maritime leadership.