The Vice Admiral KK Nayyar Memorial Lecture 2025 was held on February 14, coinciding with the 20th Foundation Day of the National Maritime Foundation (NMF). This annual event honors the enduring legacy of Vice Admiral KK Nayyar, a visionary naval officer who played a crucial role in shaping India’s maritime consciousness and policy framework.
Vice Admiral Nayyar was not just a distinguished officer but a strategic thinker who worked tirelessly to dispel India’s maritime blindness. As the founder-chairman of the NMF and a key figure in establishing the Vivekananda International Foundation, his contributions continue to inspire discussions on maritime strategy and national security.
The event commenced with opening remarks from Admiral Karambir Singh (Retd), Chairman of the NMF and former Chief of the Naval Staff, followed by an address from Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the current Chief of the Naval Staff. Admiral Tripathi spoke about the growing importance of maritime awareness in India’s strategic and economic ambitions. He emphasized the NMF’s role in shaping maritime policies and the Indian Navy’s commitment to ensuring regional stability through enhanced cooperation and security initiatives.
A highlight of the event was the Vice Admiral KK Nayyar Memorial Lecture, delivered by Shri Ram Nath Kovind, former President of India. His address, titled “Increasing Maritime Consciousness in India: A Strategic Imperative for National Prosperity and Security,” underscored the critical role of India’s maritime resources, trade routes, and geopolitical positioning in the Indo-Pacific region. He stressed the need for a strong maritime culture to boost economic growth, enhance security, and help India achieve its vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The gathering was attended by senior officials from the Indian defense forces, diplomats, academicians, and strategic experts, as well as close associates of Vice Admiral Nayyar. The event reaffirmed the National Maritime Foundation’s commitment to advancing maritime awareness and policymaking, ensuring that Nayyar’s vision continues to guide India’s maritime future.
