Uttara Kannada (Karnataka) [India]: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday reiterated India’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding the interests of all nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) while respecting their sovereignty.
“India is committed to safeguarding the interests of all in the Indian Ocean while upholding the sovereignty of every nation,” Singh stated while addressing a gathering in Karwar, where he was attending the Naval Commanders’ Conference and inaugurating newly developed naval infrastructure under Project Seabird.
Highlighting India’s maritime doctrine, Singh emphasized the Indian Navy’s role in maintaining a secure and inclusive Indian Ocean.
“Our Navy ensures that in the Indian Ocean Region, no nation can suppress another on the basis of its overwhelming economy or military power. India ensures that everyone’s interests are protected without compromising anyone’s sovereignty,” he added.
Singh stressed that India’s increasing presence in the region goes beyond national interest, extending security to its allies and fostering regional stability.
“On this historic occasion, I feel both proud and happy to be present on the 10th anniversary of the SAGAR initiative. IOS SAGAR is now embarking on its journey to the Indian Ocean. This naval deployment is the result of collaborative efforts not only by India but also by all our friendly nations in the region,” he said.
He described the Indian Ocean Region as vital for India—not just from a strategic or defense perspective, but also in terms of trade, economy, tourism, cultural ties, and comprehensive national interests.
“We are not only acknowledging the importance of the Indian Ocean Region but also working together in this direction. India has cooperated with every stakeholder in the region. It is our endeavour to make the Indian Ocean Region more peaceful and prosperous through our presence,” Singh said.
He further emphasized that India’s regional presence reflects its belief in equal rights and shared responsibilities among all nations in the Indian Ocean.
Singh also spoke about a new step forward in India’s maritime outreach. During a recent visit to Mauritius, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expanded the scope of SAGAR by launching the MAHASAGAR initiative.
MAHASAGAR stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions, aiming to strengthen the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision through deeper collaboration.
“Now that India has transitioned from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR, what could be a more appropriate time than this for the sea voyage of IOS SAGAR?” Singh concluded.