Published: 19 February 2026PIBGovernance

India Assumes IONS Chairmanship at 9th Naval Chiefs' Conclave in Visakhapatnam

AQuick answer

India chairs IONS for 2026-28 after 16 years; 33 countries at Vizag conclave; focus on maritime exercises.

Key facts

India assumed Chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) at the 9th Conclave of Chiefs in Visakhapatnam on February 20, 2026
Indian Navy took over from the Royal Thai Navy, returning to the helm after 16 years (previously held 2008-2010)
IONS, established by the Indian Navy in 2008, now has 25 member navies and 9 observers from 33 countries
India's chairmanship (2026-28) will focus on IONS Maritime Exercise (IMEX), IOS SAGAR deployment, Maritime Information Sharing Workshops, and capability enhancement dialogues
The event was part of a naval trifecta including the International Fleet Review and MILAN exercises

India assumed the Chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) at the 9th Conclave of Chiefs held in Visakhapatnam on February 20, 2026. The Indian Navy took over from the Royal Thai Navy, marking India's return to the helm after 16 years (previously held 2008-2010).

The Conclave brought together Chiefs of Navies and Heads of Maritime Security Agencies from 33 countries. IONS, established by the Indian Navy in 2008, now has 25 member navies and 9 observers. India's chairmanship (2026-28) will focus on: the IONS Maritime Exercise (IMEX); deployment of IOS SAGAR to member countries; Maritime Information Sharing Workshops; and capability enhancement dialogues. The event was part of a naval trifecta including the International Fleet Review and MILAN exercises.

Mains angle

Q: Assess India's 2026-28 IONS chairmanship for its contribution to Indian Ocean maritime cooperation and the SAGAR doctrine.

Answer (50 words):

At Visakhapatnam on February 20, 2026, India assumed IONS chairmanship from the Royal Thai Navy, returning after 16 years. The 9th Conclave drew 33 countries; IONS has 25 member navies and 9 observers. Priorities include the IONS Maritime Exercise, IOS SAGAR deployment, information-sharing workshops, and capability-enhancement dialogues strengthening regional maritime cooperation.

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TInternal security: threats, forces, agencies, challenges TIndian foreign policy: determinants, major powers, neighbours, diaspora, cultural diplomacy

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Frequently asked questions

When and where did India assume the IONS Chairmanship in 2026?

India assumed the Chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium at the 9th Conclave of Chiefs in Visakhapatnam on February 20, 2026. The Indian Navy took over from the Royal Thai Navy.

Why was India's return to IONS leadership notable?

India's 2026 chairmanship marked its return to the helm after 16 years. India had previously held the role from 2008 to 2010.

What participation and membership figures were highlighted for IONS?

The Conclave brought together Chiefs of Navies and Heads of Maritime Security Agencies from 33 countries. IONS was established by the Indian Navy in 2008 and now has 25 member navies and 9 observers.

What will India's IONS Chairmanship focus on during 2026-28?

India's chairmanship will focus on the IONS Maritime Exercise, deployment of IOS SAGAR to member countries, Maritime Information Sharing Workshops, and capability enhancement dialogues. The event was part of a naval trifecta including the International Fleet Review and MILAN exercises.

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