What Role Does the Andaman and Nicobar Command Play as a Maritime Strategic Hub?
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Synopsis
Explore how the Dweep Diksha Dialogue emphasized the transformative role of the Andaman and Nicobar Command as a maritime strategic hub. Discover insights from key military leaders about India's defense strategies in the Indo-Pacific.
Key Takeaways
- ANC as a Strategic Hub: The dialogue highlighted ANC's transformation into a pivotal maritime command.
- Multi-Domain Warfare: Emphasis on the need for readiness in various warfare domains.
- Collaborative Discussions: Fostering dialogues among military leaders and experts.
- Focus on Cyber Warfare: Addressing the challenges posed by cyber threats.
- Regional Stability: ANC's role in maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
New Delhi, Sep 21 (NationPress) General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), underscored the significance of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India's sole operational Joint Services Command, in safeguarding India's interests in the Indo-Pacific during a two-day dialogue at Sri Vijaya Puram, as stated by an official on Sunday.
Under the theme 'Evolution of ANC as a Strategic Hub and Beyond', this forum encouraged discussions about future-ready operational strategies, the nuances of cognitive and cyber warfare, strategic signalling, and enhancing India's profile as a preferred security ally in the region.
The third iteration of the Dweep Diksha Dialogue, which took place from September 19 to 20, also highlighted the escalating significance of multi-domain warfare, grey-zone strategies, and maritime security, according to the official.
This dialogue served as a platform for prominent figures, led by the CDS, from various fields including the Armed Forces, diplomacy, academia, media, and strategic affairs, to deliberate on ANC's pivotal role in shaping India's maritime and security presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Notable speakers included Lieutenant General Dinesh Singh Rana, Commander-in-Chief ANC (CINCAN), and Admiral D.K. Joshi, Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The dialogue's deeper significance was in fostering discussions among serving officers, veterans, analysts, and thought leaders on how India can secure its interests in the Indo-Pacific, as stated by an official.
Prominent participants included Admiral Arun Prakash (Retd), former Chief of Naval Staff and first CINCAN; Lieutenant General Ajai Singh (Retd), former CINCAN; Rear Admiral Monty Khanna (Retd); Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, Deputy Chief of the Army Staff (Strategic); and Vice Admiral Anil Chawla (Retd).
Beyond formal discussions, the dialogue acted as a platform to nurture long-term strategic thinking, address emerging regional challenges, and visualize the future of India's defence and security capabilities, as stated in the announcement.
Established in 2023, the Dweep Diksha Dialogue represents ANC's transformation from a geographically isolated outpost into a vibrant operational and intellectual hub, wielding the capability to influence policy, operational planning, and regional stability.
The dialogue reinforces ANC's status as a center for professional military education, operational experimentation, and joint-service cooperation.
Through these engagements, ANC is positioning itself as a critical anchor for India's national interests in the IOR, guiding the nation's maritime strategy for years to come, as conveyed in the official statement.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the strategic evolution of the Andaman and Nicobar Command. This dialogue not only consolidates India's defense strategies but also establishes ANC as a cornerstone for regional stability and collaboration. The ongoing discussions reflect a commitment to safeguarding our maritime interests in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dweep Diksha Dialogue?
The Dweep Diksha Dialogue is an initiative aimed at discussing the evolution of the Andaman and Nicobar Command as a strategic hub for India's maritime and security interests.
Who were the key speakers at the dialogue?
Key speakers included General Anil Chauhan, Lieutenant General Dinesh Singh Rana, and Admiral D.K. Joshi, among other distinguished military leaders.
What topics were discussed at the dialogue?
Topics included future operational concepts, multi-domain warfare, cyber warfare, and enhancing India's role as a security partner in the Indo-Pacific.
When was the Dweep Diksha Dialogue held?
The dialogue took place from September 19 to 20, 2023.
Why is the Andaman and Nicobar Command important?
The Andaman and Nicobar Command plays a crucial role in shaping India's maritime strategy and ensuring regional stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
