Rajnath Singh Proposes India-Asean Defence Think Tank Forum

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for the creation of a dedicated forum linking India and ASEAN defence think tanks to boost strategic cooperation and tackle emerging security challenges in the Indo-Pacific. The proposal was made during the ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting held in Kuala Lumpur on Friday.

New Institutional Framework for Defence Dialogue

Singh proposed an institutionalised dialogue platform to promote collaboration among defence experts, academics, and policy researchers from India and ASEAN nations. He said the initiative would enhance mutual understanding, drive capacity-building, and stimulate innovative policy ideas for regional security. ASEAN partners were invited to nominate leading defence institutions and experts for the proposed forum.

Strengthening Indo-Pacific Security Cooperation

Emphasising the Indo-Pacific’s strategic significance, Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to ASEAN’s central role in ensuring peace and stability. He said the ASEAN-India partnership would continue to act as a “strong pillar of stability” amid global uncertainties. Singh highlighted shared economic progress and urged the early conclusion of the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement to deepen economic ties.

Focus on Maritime Security and Rule of Law

Reiterating India’s emphasis on maritime security, Singh praised ASEAN members for supporting the second edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise. He underlined the importance of safeguarding sea lanes, noting that over half of India’s trade passes through the South China Sea and the Malacca Strait. Stressing adherence to international law, he said India backs a rules-based maritime order guided by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Exam Oriented Facts

• Rajnath Singh proposed an India-ASEAN Defence Think Tank Forum in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025.
• Over 50% of India’s trade passes through the South China Sea and Malacca Strait.
• ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) will hold its second edition in 2026.
• India upholds the UNCLOS principles for a rules-based maritime order.

Women in Peacekeeping and Future Naval Engagements

The defence minister also announced the second edition of the ASEAN-India Initiative for Women in UN Peacekeeping Operations. The programme will include specialised training for women military officers and a table-top exercise on civilian protection. Concluding his remarks, Singh invited ASEAN nations to join the upcoming International Fleet Review 2026 in India. On the sidelines, he also signed a 10-year “Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership” with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, marking a significant step in bilateral military collaboration.