In a first of its kind, Navy Chief Admiral R.K. Dhowan on Thursday inaugurated a 'Conclave of Chiefs' on the sidelines of the Naval Commanders' Conference here.The meeting provided an opportunity for the former chiefs to interact with the commanders and other senior officers and be apprised with the latest developments in the Indian Navy and its future plans, Navy officials said."A key take-away from the conclave was the guidance and views that the erstwhile chiefs had on a myriad issues. It was intended to take advantage of their experience, knowledge and collective wisdom to chart the path ahead for the Indian Navy," an official statement said.
"Besides being a reunion of sorts, a broad overview of the numerous progressive steps being taken on operational, material and personnel issues by the Navy, was also presented during the conclave," the statement said.The ex-chiefs were also provided a perspective on the achievements of the Service and the future plans anchored on the 'Make in India' initiative.The spouses of the chiefs were given an overview of the efforts of the Navy Wives Welfare Association and the efforts of the Indian Navy in the areas of community welfare and development, particularly with regard to the naval families.