The Naval Commanders’ Conference which concluded recently has laid emphasis on being ‘ready today and prepared for tomorrow’ concept. The Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma took stock of various aspects involving acquistions, operations, personnel and logistics in the presence of senior leadership of the Indian Navy.

One of the focus areas during the conference was the prevailing security environment and the need to ensure that naval units are kept at the highest state of readiness to meet unforeseen challenges. To ensure this the Commanders were directed that training of personnel and honing of their skills be closely monitored for execution of the tasks assigned with the highest level of professionalism.

While reviewing the acquisition plans of the Indian Navy, stress was laid on close monitoring of ongoing projects to ensure timely completion and prevent cost overruns. Attention was also drawn to timely fruition of infrastructure development associated with operationalisation of new inductions and projects already approved by the government, particularly, operational turnround bases in A&N Islands, forward operating base at Tuticorin and Naval Air Enclaves.

With regard to utilising budgetary allocations, the Chief of Naval Staff stressed that capital expenditure be evenly spread throughout the year and fiscal prudence be exercised in respect of revenue expenditure.

Various aspects of the induction and fleet integration of ‘Vikramaditya’ along with its air element of MiG-29K fighters was also discussed. The training and infrastructural preparations to operate this and other transformational assets were also reviewed.