The biannual Naval Commanders’ Conference of 2014 commenced in New Delhi on 24 June, 2014. This conference is held to discuss issues of operational relevance, identify capability gaps and to review the future plans of the Indian Navy.
The Defence Minister, Sh. Arun Jaitley inaugurated the conference and congratulated the men and women of the Indian Navy for discharging their duties with utmost diligence and professionalism. He met Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral RK Dhowan, Commanders’-in-Chiefs of various commands of the navy and other top commanders and held discussions with them.
Appreciating the indigenisation efforts of the Indian Navy, Sh. Jaitley made a mention of the fact that all 44 naval ships and submarines under construction are being built in Indian shipyards. He stressed that these efforts need to be further strengthened for timely inductions of the platforms.
Addressing the challenges pertaining to human resource development in the Navy, which are unique due to high levels of technical skills required to operate nuclear submarines, state-of-the-art ships and deck launched fighter aircraft, Sh. Jaitley assured that all efforts will be made to reduce the existing shortfall of manpower.
Sh. Jaitley said the Indian Navy personnel have always risen to the challenges and have conducted themselves in the best traditions of the service.
The Naval Commanders are discussing matters related to combat readiness of the fleet and other operational formations, building capabilities for the future and addressing human resource challenges amongst others.
[mappress] Press Release, June 25, 2014; Image: Indian Navy