Naval Commanders' meet to discuss operational issues

Navy chief Admiral R.K. Dhowan will review critical operational and administrative issues concerning the force during the Naval Commander's Conference that begins here on Monday.

The conference, which will continue till May 28, will discuss operational relevance, identify capability gaps and review future plans, the Indian Navy said in a statement.

It said the focus of the conference would be on creating operational, technical and administrative infrastructure and address issues concerning induction of manpower, training and skill development and welfare of personnel.

Besides, it would discuss operational readiness of commands, coastal security and ways to strengthen cyber security.

With the navy observing 2015 as the 'Year of the Sailor', condition of sailors and their quality of life will be another focus area.

The statement said the navy intends to achieve zero carbon-footprint in the future and the conference will discuss initiatives taken to this effect.

It said the navy has formulated an action plan concerning green initiatives which will be tabled during the conference.

"The (green) initiatives include introduction of Marine Pollution (MARPOL) compliant equipment, replacement of Ozone depleting Chlorofluoro Carbons and Hydrochlorofluoro Carbons with environment-friendly material, recourse to renewable sources of energy, use of bio-diesel etc," it said.

It added: "Deliberations would be held on infrastructure and manning requirements for new aircraft, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and enhancement of surveillance."

The commanders will also interact with the defence ministry officials to discuss key cases pending with the government relating to infrastructure development and capability enhancement, the statement said.

"Consequently, plans for infrastructure and capacity enhancement of Indian Naval Academy, the premier training establishment of the Indian Navy, will be reviewed during the Commanders' Conference."