The Maritime Information Sharing Workshop (MISW), hosted by the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram from September 14th to 16th, 2023, marked a significant step in promoting collaboration among maritime security stakeholders in the region.
The event was inaugurated by Vice Admiral Sanjay Mahindru, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Indian Navy, and brought together 41 delegates from 26 countries, representing both the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment (DCoC/JA).
Vice Admiral Sanjay Mahindru, in his opening address, emphasized the numerous challenges to maritime safety and security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). He highlighted the critical need for stronger maritime collaboration and trust-based partnerships among regional nations.
On the first day of the workshop, a series of informative sessions provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the complexities of maritime safety and security. Vice Admiral Pradeep Chauhan (Retd), Director General of the National Maritime Foundation, began by providing a comprehensive view of contemporary maritime security challenges. Vice Admiral Anup Singh (Retd) discussed the importance of international cooperation in maritime security and the role of information sharing in forming a collective response. Vice Admiral AK Chawla (Retd) explored technology and innovation in maritime security, while Rear Admiral TVN Prasanna, JS (Maritime Security) at the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), discussed governance challenges in the maritime domain.
The second day introduced India’s approach to maritime security, with a focus on the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) as a key element in national maritime security efforts and the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) engaging with regional and international partners. The highlight of the day was a maritime security exercise that immersed participants in real-world scenarios using the indigenous NISHAR-IFC (Network for Information Sharing – Information Fusion Centre) software. This exercise aimed to enhance participants’ shared understanding of contemporary maritime safety and security challenges, foster collaboration, and provide an opportunity for participants to work as a cohesive team.
The third and final day of MISW 23 was dedicated to the Djibouti Code of Conduct-Jeddah Amendment (DCoC/JA) countries. India, as an observer nation in this construct, pledged support for capacity building and capability enhancement. The day focused on streamlining the DCoC Information Sharing Network (ISN) Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and included discussions on the need for a robust information-sharing architecture to enhance maritime safety and security.
MISW 2023 not only facilitated knowledge exchange but also strengthened international relationships, reaffirming nations’ commitment to collaborate for a safer maritime environment. The theme, “Advancing Maritime Safety and Cooperation for a Sustainable Future,” echoed throughout the workshop, providing a platform for participants to delve into maritime security intricacies.
In line with India’s vision of “Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR),” IFC-IOR’s mission aligns with the need for security, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region. Through collaborations with various maritime security constructs and partner countries, IFC-IOR has played a vital role in advancing this vision. MISW 23 has been more than just a workshop; it has been a collective effort to chart a course toward a more secure and prosperous maritime future. The bonds formed and knowledge exchanged here will continue to impact maritime safety and security for years to come.
