The Indian Navy is set to host the 2026 edition of the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) in New Delhi from November 3 to 5. This significant event will convene naval leaders, policymakers, scientists, and maritime experts from 18 countries to engage in discussions centred on maritime technology, ocean research, and regional security. The dialogue is organised in partnership with the National Maritime Foundation (NMF).

It will focus on the theme ‘Science, Technology and Academic Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific’. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to deliver the commemorative address on the inaugural day. This annual conference serves as the Navy’s principal international strategic outreach initiative, aiming to translate India’s broader maritime cooperation framework into actionable proposals.

The discussions will align with the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), which was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 14th East Asia Summit in Bangkok in November 2019. The IPOI identifies seven interconnected areas of maritime cooperation, while India’s MAHASAGAR vision — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — underscores the importance of security and sustainable development across the maritime neighbourhood.

Focus on Science and Tech

The emphasis on science and technology during the dialogue comes in response to increasing concerns regarding climate change, vulnerabilities in maritime supply chains, and threats to critical maritime infrastructure. These challenges often extend beyond national jurisdictions, necessitating a collaborative approach among countries to share information, develop scientific expertise, and coordinate responses effectively.

Participants will explore how regional partners can enhance cooperation in these areas, particularly through joint research, technology development, and improved access to scientific data. The programme will include five professional sessions that will cover various topics, such as academic networks and human capital development, maritime situational awareness, and the protection of critical maritime infrastructure.

Additional discussions will focus on oceanographic science and climate resilience, collaborative approaches to ocean governance and maritime resilience, as well as emerging maritime technologies and their dual-use implications. The dialogue will extend beyond traditional disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to incorporate social sciences, life sciences, and humanities.

Special Sessions and Outcomes

The opening day will feature a special session titled ‘Perspectives from the Flag Bridge’, which will bring together former naval chiefs from India and Sri Lanka. Another notable interaction, ‘Sahyog Ka Samvaad’, will offer a platform for ambassadorial perspectives on maritime cooperation. The programme will also include ministerial addresses and contributions from maritime practitioners, scientists, academics, policymakers, and other experts.

The Indian Navy aims for the dialogue to identify specific measures that can be pursued through existing bilateral, trilateral, and multilateral mechanisms. The proposals generated are expected to address cooperation at national, sub-regional, and wider Indo-Pacific levels, with a strong focus on practical outcomes rather than mere discussions.

This conference will thus serve as a vital platform for regional partners to examine how shared research, scientific expertise, and technology partnerships can bolster maritime security, resilience, and sustainable ocean governance. The outcomes of this dialogue are anticipated to contribute significantly to the collective efforts of nations in addressing pressing maritime challenges.

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