Navy to host Indo-Pacific meet from November 3, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Indian Navy will host the 2026 edition of the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) in New Delhi from November 3 to 5.
• The event will gather maritime practitioners, scientists, academicians, policymakers, and experts from 18 countries.
• The central theme for IPRD-2026 is "Science, Technology, and Academic Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific".
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to deliver the commemorative address on the opening day.

Detailed Insights:

• The IPRD is the Indian Navy's annual apex-level international strategic dialogue, serving as its principal international strategic outreach initiative.
• Discussions will focus on identifying practical measures to strengthen regional cooperation in maritime research, ocean governance, climate resilience, and emerging technologies.
• The dialogue aims to translate the broad framework of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019, into actionable proposals.
• It also aligns with India's maritime vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
• The 2026 edition will feature five thematic sessions covering academic networks, maritime situational awareness, oceanographic science, collaborative ocean governance, and transformative maritime technologies.
• The event will examine cooperation beyond traditional STEM fields, recognizing contributions from social sciences, life sciences, and humanities.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD): The Indian Navy's annual international strategic dialogue focusing on maritime issues in the Indo-Pacific.
• Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI): A maritime cooperation initiative launched by India in 2019 to promote a safe, secure, and stable maritime domain.
• MAHASAGAR: India's maritime vision emphasizing mutual and holistic advancement for security and growth across regions.
• Indo-Pacific: A geopolitical concept recognizing the interconnectedness of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, crucial for global trade and security.