The UNCTAD's '2017 Review Report' confirms that global merchandise trade conducted via the seas has been on the rise since 1975
India increasingly sees its role across the Indian Ocean as a "net provider of regional security"
The plan is to make this aquatic-force a 175-ship and 110-aircraft force by 2022
To develop credible maritime assets and capabilities, India should structure itself essentially as an Indian Ocean Region player, rather than seek a broader Asia-Pacific profile