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India is becoming the centre of the changing global geopolitical situation and so, the need for preparedness in uncertain times is paramount now, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, referring to the ongoing Middle East crises.
Speaking at THE WEEK-GRSE Sagar Sankalp national maritime defence dialogue in Kolkata, Singh said, “It is India’s responsibility, in the role of a major maritime nation, to instil confidence, capability, and clarity with leadership. We are going through changing times. We are seeing things change at a rapid speed on the global stage. Supply chains, energy pathways, and new equations are also forming. The need for maritime support is increasing rapidly.”
Speaking at the Maritime Conclave “Sagar Sankalp” in Kolkata. https://t.co/C93bpLs7Ka
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) March 6, 2026
The defence minister highlighted how India was initially a trade hub, but today, the seas play a role of strategic dominance. “The world is changing, and old notions are breaking, which we have been seeing for many years. Differing minds and conflict are seen in the world, which seem to be together on the surface, but each geographical nation has a different background, yet there is a common path.”
Today, new things are emerging at a global level; there is change. Old beliefs are changing with rapid speed. We have to understand these uncertainties and keep an eye on the Middle East, which is very unpredictable, and we are unable to make a concrete prediction in which direction things will shape up in the Middle East or in the neighbouring nations,” Singh said.
Singh also spoke about the uncertainty of global security on world energy production and the impact on oil and gas due to geopolitical disturbances. “When there is a disturbance in this sector, the direct impact is felt on oil and gas supply. This disturbance in the supply chain will impact other sectors too. The impact of these uncertainties is felt on the economy and world trade,” he said.
The defence minister expressed concern over the situation in the Middle East and its global impact, including on India. “The situation is quite complicated. The situation will get more dynamic going forward. The way different countries are attacking each other in air and on sea is worrying in reality. This is an abnormal situation, but what I am concerned about is the fact that this abnormality is becoming the new normal.”
The need to look back at history and have a futuristic approach will help India, which aims to be a leading global maritime powerhouse by 2030. The focus on Atmanirbhar Bharat has helped the country be a sustainable force in the maritime sector, strengthening the country’s defence systems, he said.
