The Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC) has further solidified its status as a hub of innovation and joint operational excellence with the successful hosting of its Annual Idea & Innovation Competition at its headquarters in Port Blair. This event brought personnel from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force together to present pioneering ideas aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and logistical resilience in one of India’s strategically critical regions.
Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, the 17th Commander-in-Chief of the ANC, presided over the ceremony and praised the creative spirit exhibited by the participants. He emphasized that “innovation is the foundation of future-readiness” as he recognized the best entries across various categories. The ideas showcased spanned a diverse array of solutions, particularly tailored to tackle the unique geographical and operational challenges faced by the island command.
Positioned near the Strait of Malacca—through which more than one-third of global trade and 60% of global oil transit occurs—the Andaman & Nicobar Command plays a fundamental role in ensuring regional security. Its contributions to anti-piracy efforts, humanitarian aid missions, and joint military exercises, such as ‘Malabar’ with QUAD partners including the US, Japan, and Australia, underscore its significance in India’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
The innovation competition also highlights the broader culture of creativity flourishing in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. In 2018, the territory was the first in India to implement a dedicated startup policy aimed at promoting local entrepreneurship. Despite facing infrastructure challenges, such as limited digital connectivity, island-based startups have emerged in sectors like marine agriculture and handicrafts, frequently collaborating with the defense sector.
By fostering a culture of cross-service innovation and aligning military ingenuity with the local developmental agenda, the ANC is paving a progressive path for both regional security and inclusive growth.
