Indian Navy Commanders to hold 3-day conclave beginning Wednesday

Top commanders of Indian Navy will hold a three-day conclave beginning Wednesday to review country's maritime security scenario including deployment of a significant number of naval assets in Indian Ocean region in view of border row with China in eastern Lakh, official sources said.

Indian Navy has alrey deployed a range of its frontline warships and submarines in Indian Ocean region to send a clear mess to China, following escalation of border dispute with neighbouring country in wake of Galwan Valley clashes on June 15.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat are expected to dress inaugural day of conclave, sources said.

All possible security challenges that country may face including from China and Pakistan in Indian Ocean Region will be deliberated upon at length at conclave, y ded.

Indian Ocean, considered backyard of Indian Navy, is critical to India's strategic interests. Over years, region has witnessed increasing Chinese presence.

China increased its presence in Indian Ocean Region by constructing deep-sea Gwar Port in sourn Pakistan and a naval base in Djibouti in Horn of Africa.

In last few weeks, Navy has significantly expanded its deployment in Indian Ocean Region, positioning a plethora of warships and submarines following Galwan Valley clash with Chinese troops in eastern Lakh in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed.

Chinese side also suffered casualties but it is yet to give out details. According to an American intelligence report, number of casualties on Chinese side was 35.

Over years, Indian Navy's focus has been on enhancing combat efficiency and improving operational reiness and se issues will be discussed in detail, sources said.

Measures to ensure safety, continued training, and checks and balances on crew proficiency aboard front-line warships will also be reviewed, y said. 

(Representational Im)