An Accident-Prone Navy: India’s Troubled Waters and the Cost of Ambition

India’s naval ambitions have long been touted as emblematic of its rise as a global power. However, this rise has been marred by a troubling pattern of accidents, system failures, and lapses in safety protocols, exposing glaring vulnerabilities in the Indian Navy’s operational readiness and safety culture. Over the past decade, 15 major incidents, including fires, system malfunctions, and mishandling of radioactive materials, have cast a shadow over India’s maritime aspirations and raised critical questions about the sustainability of its nuclear submarine program.

A Troubled History of Accidents

The string of mishaps begins with high-profile incidents like the INS Sindhuratna fire in 2014, which tragically claimed the lives of two officers, and extends to the INS Arihant, India’s first nuclear-powered submarine, which was rendered inoperative for 10 months due to an accidental flooding of its propulsion compartment. Such accidents highlight systemic failures in adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and an alarming disregard for safety protocols.

Most recently, the commissioning of the INS Arighaat, India’s second strategic strike submarine, has reignited concerns about the sustainability and safety of its nuclear submarine fleet. The Arighaat’s construction delays—three years behind schedule—reflect deeper inefficiencies in India’s ability to produce and maintain high-tech military platforms.

The Nuclear Dilemma

India’s reliance on underdeveloped and untested nuclear technology adds a layer of risk that cannot be overlooked. The potential for radioactive contamination, underscored by past mishandling of nuclear materials, poses a significant threat not just to naval personnel but also to the marine ecosystems of the Indian Ocean. Moreover, the use of substandard materials in nuclear systems raises the specter of underwater nuclear accidents, which could have catastrophic consequences for the region’s environment and security.

Adding to these challenges is the specter of corruption in the defense procurement process. Scandals like the 2006 arms procurement kickbacks and the 2019 irregularities in indigenous weapon system acquisitions have further undermined the credibility of India’s naval modernization efforts. These procurement lapses compromise the quality of vital equipment, directly impacting operational safety and effectiveness.

An Ethical Quandary

India’s aggressive push for a blue-water navy comes at a significant cost. The country is investing billions into its nuclear submarine fleet while 140 million of its citizens continue to live below the poverty line. This stark disparity raises ethical questions about resource allocation in a country grappling with pressing social and environmental challenges.

The prioritization of military expansion over the well-being of its population reflects a troubling disconnect between national security objectives and human security needs. In a region already fraught with geopolitical tensions, India’s naval accidents and nuclear vulnerabilities risk triggering an environmental and humanitarian crisis.

A Call for Regional and Global Oversight

To address these challenges, India must adopt a more transparent and accountable approach to its naval operations. South Asian nations should establish a cooperative framework focusing on maritime safety, environmental protection, and conflict de-escalation. Regular audits and accountability mechanisms are essential to ensure adherence to international safety standards.

Engaging global bodies like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is equally crucial. These organizations can provide technical expertise, independent oversight, and a platform for regional dialogue on nuclear and maritime safety.

The Way Forward

India’s ambition to project power through a robust navy must be matched by a commitment to operational excellence, environmental stewardship, and ethical governance. Without addressing the systemic flaws that have plagued its naval operations, India risks undermining its credibility as a responsible maritime power.

The time has come for India to navigate these troubled waters with caution and foresight, ensuring that its naval pursuits do not come at the cost of safety, sustainability, and the well-being of its people and the planet.