Over the Horizon

Ghazala Wahab

Maps are fascinating. They conjure up a world of possibilities. Nothing seems too far or unattainable on its promising expanse of blue and green. Senior naval officers like looking at the wall to wall maps fondly, using brass-tipped wooden pointers to mark areas of responsibility, interest and possibilities. Maps are benign. The blue of possibilities sweeps over the red of challenges.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh onboard the INS Vikramaditya with the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Karambir Singh and senior officials of Indian Navy

The Indian Navy has been grappling with these overlapping circles of possibilities and threats. The growing economy till a few years ago had put wings on its plans to exploit the possibilities; but the present economy hit by speed breakers has put the challenges in sharp relief, especially when the p