'Navy should play decisive role for early conclusion of war'

With a focus on "aggressive defence" of the Indian territory, the Indian Navy's strategic vision document says that in case of war, it should play a "decisive role" in bringing it to an early and favourable conclusion.

"Whereas preventing war and conflict is its primary purpose, the Indian Navy must play a decisive role in bringing them to an early and favourable conclusion, should they be thrust on the nation or become inevitable," said the document released by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar at the ongoing Naval Commander's Conference that began on Monday.

"All its capability-development measures and operational plans will be guided by this core consideration," said the document, titled 'Ensuring Secure Seas: Indian Maritime Security Strategy'.

It is a follow-on edition of the Indian Navy's strategic guidance document 'Freedom to Use the Seas; India's Maritime Military Strategy' published in 2007.

Inaugurating the conference, Parrikar said on Monday that India had to be more aggressive in defending its territory.

The latest document said Indian Navy would continue to engage with friendly maritime forces to establish a cooperative framework that promotes mutual understanding and enhances security and stability in the region.

It also laid emphasis on indigenisation in the float, move and fight components on all platforms, in line with the 'Make in India' initiative of the government.