Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a visit to Maharashtra to participate in the ‘Navy Day 2023’ celebrations at Sindhudurg, where he will observe ‘Operational Demonstrations’ by Indian Navy’s warships, submarines and special forces from Tarkarli beach. He will also unveil the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort.
Navy Day is observed on the 4th December. The ‘Navy Day 2023’ celebrations at Sindhudurg serve as a tribute to the profound maritime legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The Naval Ensign, inspired by his seal, was adopted last year during the commissioning of the first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant by the Prime Minister.
The Indian Navy is set to showcase its operational prowess and capabilities with an ‘Operational Demonstration.’ This comprehensive display will encompass a range of naval operations conducted by ships and aircraft at the iconic Sindhudurg Fort on the western seaboard of India. Hosted by Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, the event will be observed from Tarkarli Beach by senior government officials, military dignitaries, and the local populace. The event’s primary objective is to celebrate and honour our vibrant maritime history while moving away from colonial practices.
The event will involve 20 warships and 40 aircraft, with the MiG 29K and LCA Navy being the focal points. A significant highlight will be the combat beach reconnaissance and assault demonstration by the Marine Commandos of the Indian Navy. Other notable features encompass a performance by the Naval Band, a continuity drill, and a hornpipe dance by the SCC cadets. The event will conclude with the illumination of ships at anchorage, followed by a laser show at Sindhudurg Fort, according to the Indian Navy.
Constructed in 1660 under the rule of Maratha leader Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Sindhudurg Fort stands as a testament to India’s profound maritime history. Additionally, it fulfils the Navy’s need for conducting operational demonstrations with its frontline assets, the Indian Navy’s statement states.
On December 4th, Navy recalls “Operation Trident,” the daring assault by the Indian Navy on Karachi harbour during the 1971 War. The Operational Demonstration honours the bravery and determination of the personnel who achieved the seemingly impossible under challenging conditions. Furthermore, the event aims to exhibit the Indian Navy’s cutting-edge ships and aircraft to both the general public and online viewers through a live telecast, the statement said.
For the first time, the Indian Navy is hosting a large-scale event outside any major naval station. The Sindhudurg Fort, situated 550 km from Mumbai and approximately 135 km from the naval station in Goa, has been chosen as the venue.
Every year, on the occasion of Navy Day, there is a tradition of organising ‘Operational Demonstrations’ by the Indian Navy’s ships, submarines, aircraft and special forces. These ‘Operational Demonstrations’ provide an opportunity for the people to witness various facets of multi-domain operations undertaken by the Indian Navy. It highlights the Navy’s contributions towards national security to the public while also heralding maritime consciousness amongst citizens.
Navy Day celebrations are aimed at fostering greater outreach, renewing maritime consciousness amongst our citizens and highlighting the Navy’s contributions towards national security. According to the statement, the Navy Day festivities are designed to enhance outreach, rekindle maritime awareness among our citizens, and underscore the Navy’s significant contribution to national security.
Ravi Shankar
