Defence Minister A K Antony has cautioned the Navy against complacency and said, some recent incidents have brought to fore the need for further strengthening the country's coastal and maritime security.

Addressing the three-day Naval Commanders Conference in New Delhi, Mr. Antony said the Indian Navy has been mandated to be the net security provider to island nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

On security of Indian maritime and coastal regions, he said the country's coastline is vast and round-the-clock patrolling is not an easy proposition.

Naval ships, submarines and aircrafts are being extensively deployed, but still a lot more needs to be done by way of response mechanism on the ground.

The Defence Minister said that several measures have been taken to strengthen the coastal security such as establishment of joint operation centres, induction of Fast Interception Crafts and setting up of Sagar Prahari Bal.

Mr. Antony applauded the efforts of Indian Navy in checking piracy and called for a collective approach from the international community as well on the issue.

The Defence Minister said the fight against piracy includes many dimensions such as operational aspects, legal issues and following the best practices for merchant ships.

Acknowledging the benefits of exercises conducted in South China Sea, East China Sea and Western Pacific, he stressed upon the need to maintain a balance among the various responsibilities of Indian Navy.

On shortfall of officers in Navy he said the shortage has to be bridged in a time-bound manner.