Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has proposed a joint India-ASEAN defence research agenda to strengthen cooperation in maritime security, cybersecurity, emerging technologies and disaster response. Speaking at the ASEAN-India Defence Think Tank Forum, he called for practical initiatives that translate dialogue and shared understanding into collaborative research and solutions.

Singh outlined several proposals aimed at deepening engagement between Indian and ASEAN researchers, policymakers and defence practitioners.

Four Proposals to Strengthen India-ASEAN Cooperation

The Defence Minister suggested four practical outcomes from the forum.

1. Joint Research on Regional Security

Singh proposed developing a joint India-ASEAN research agenda covering maritime security, cyber threats, emerging technologies, disaster response and defence industry cooperation. The initiative would provide a framework for researchers to explore shared challenges and identify areas for collaboration.

2. Exchanges Among Researchers and Young Scholars

He called for regular exchanges involving researchers, particularly young scholars, through fellowships, visiting programmes and joint publications. Such initiatives could encourage knowledge-sharing and build lasting professional networks between India and ASEAN member countries.

3. Pilot Projects on Emerging Security Challenges

Singh proposed identifying a limited number of pilot projects to turn research into practical outcomes. Examples included a tabletop exercise on maritime disaster response, a joint study on counter-drone solutions and research into secure maritime information-sharing systems.

These projects could help participating countries examine common challenges and explore possible approaches to regional security cooperation.

4. Continued Dialogue Through Track 1.5 and Track 2 Platforms

The minister also called for greater use of Track 1.5 and Track 2 dialogues to maintain discussions between formal meetings.

These platforms can bring researchers, practitioners and policymakers together to exchange ideas, examine policy options and sustain engagement on shared security concerns.

Rajnath Singh Outlines India's Indo-Pacific Vision

Singh said India seeks an Indo-Pacific region where countries, regardless of their size, can make independent choices, protect their interests and pursue development peacefully.

His remarks highlighted the importance of cooperation that respects the interests of regional countries while addressing common security challenges.

From Dialogue to Practical Solutions

Concluding his proposals, Singh urged the forum to help move India-ASEAN engagement beyond discussions towards joint research and practical solutions.

He said collaborative efforts should ultimately contribute to improving the security and well-being of people across the region. The proposals place research partnerships, knowledge-sharing and targeted pilot projects at the centre of efforts to strengthen India-ASEAN defence cooperation.