Indian Navy Commissions Naval Base at the Strategic Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep

Indian Navy commissioned its new naval base, the INS Jatayu, at Minicoy Island in the Lakshadweep. It is the 2nd naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti.

Video Credits: WION

This step will bolster the navy’s operational capabilities in the region, expand its reach and aid its efforts in tracking down anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the Arabian Sea. Given China’s growing influence over the Maldives, it is also a well-thought-out move.

It was commissioned at an event attended by Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar and other distinguished Navy officials. Kumar addressed the gathering and said that the base is named after a mythical creature in the Ramayana who tried to prevent Sita’s abduction, even at the peril of his life, an example of selfless service.

Hence, naming the new base after it is an apt recognition of the spirit of offering security surveillance and selfless service to the nation.

He added that INS Baaz to the east, in the Andamans and the INS Jatayu in the west would function as the Navy’s eyes and ears, helping to safeguard national security.

He also highlighted the need for increased surveillance in the region given the recent geopolitical developments and the rise in maritime incidents involving piracy, abductions, etc., to which the Indian Navy has responded swiftly by rescuing the seafarers and their ships in several anti-piracy operations.

The administrator of Lakshadweep Island, Praful Khoda Patel, mentioned that the approval for an airstrip in Minicoy is at the final stage, and a chopper hanger, operational for 24 hours, will soon start in Kavaratti. He added that land had been allotted for setting a radar base for the Air Force in Lakshadweep.

Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep) Captain Lovekesh Thakur said the decision to start a new base here was made because of the strategic importance of the Lakshadweep Islands, which are a vital trade route so a base with greater surveillance capabilities would benefit India. It would act as a springboard for the future deployment of units.

References: Hindu Business Line, Money Control

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