The 7th National Security Adviser (NSA)-level meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) was recently held in New Delhi, highlighting the growing importance of regional security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.

About the Colombo Security Conclave

The Colombo Security Conclave is a regional security framework comprising India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
Its primary objective is to strengthen regional security by jointly addressing transnational and non-traditional security challenges faced by member countries.

The conclave facilitates regular engagement among National Security Advisors and Deputy National Security Advisors, enabling strategic dialogue and coordination.

Origin and Evolution of the CSC

The CSC originated in 2011 as the Trilateral for Maritime Security Cooperation, involving India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
The mechanism became inactive after 2014 due to political tensions between India and the Maldives.

In 2020, the grouping was revived and rebranded as the Colombo Security Conclave.
Over time, its membership expanded:

• Mauritius joined in 2022,

• Bangladesh joined in 2024, and

• Seychelles became the sixth member in the most recent expansion.

Key Pillars of Cooperation

Cooperation under the Colombo Security Conclave is organised around five major pillars:

1. Maritime Safety and Security, focusing on safeguarding sea lanes and maritime domain awareness.

2. Countering Terrorism and Radicalisation, through intelligence sharing and joint capacity-building initiatives.

3. Combating Trafficking and Transnational Organised Crime, including drug trafficking and human smuggling.

4. Cybersecurity and Protection of Critical Infrastructure, addressing emerging digital and cyber threats.

5. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), strengthening regional disaster preparedness and response.

Institutional Framework

The permanent secretariat of the Colombo Security Conclave is located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, ensuring continuity, coordination, and follow-up on decisions taken by member states.

Significance of the Colombo Security Conclave

The CSC plays a vital role in enhancing India’s maritime neighbourhood outreach and promoting a rules-based security architecture in the Indian Ocean Region.
It complements broader regional initiatives such as SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and reinforces collective responses to shared security challenges

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that higher-than-normal cold wave days are likely to impact parts of central India, along with certain regions of northwest and northeast India.

What is a Cold Wave?

A cold wave is an extreme weather event characterised by unusually low temperatures in the near-surface atmosphere.
It occurs due to a rapid fall in temperature within a 24-hour period or the invasion of very cold air masses over a large area.

Cold waves may persist for several days to a few weeks, depending on regional geography and prevailing climatic conditions.

IMD Criteria for Declaring a Cold Wave

The IMD uses both absolute minimum temperature values and departure from normal temperature to declare a cold wave.

Minimum Temperature Threshold

• Plains: Minimum temperature of 10°C or below

• Hilly regions: Minimum temperature of 0°C or below

Departure from Normal Temperature

• Cold Wave: Negative departure of 4.5°C to 6.4°C

• Severe Cold Wave: Negative departure of more than 6.4°C

For plains specifically:

• Cold Wave: Departure of ≤ 4°C

• Severe Cold Wave: Departure of ≤ 2°C

Seasonal Occurrence in India

Cold waves in India are predominantly experienced during the winter months from December to February.
They mainly affect northern, northwestern, central, and northeastern regions, where minimum temperatures often fall sharply during winter.

Health Risks Associated with Cold Waves

Exposure to extreme cold can lead to serious health problems such as:

• Hypothermia and frostbite

• Non-freezing cold injuries, including Immersion Foot, caused by prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions

• Increased mortality, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, homeless, outdoor workers, and people without adequate heating or shelter

Conclusion

Cold waves are a significant climatic and public health concern in India.
Timely weather warnings, preparedness measures, and public awareness are essential to minimise their impact on human life and livelihoods.