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| Boosting India's Naval Power: INS Jatayu Commissioned in Lakshadweep [Source: ANI News] |
The Indian Navy has marked a significant stride towards bolstering its operational capabilities and maritime surveillance in the strategically pivotal Lakshadweep islands with the formal commissioning of INS Jatayu on March 6, 2024, at Minicoy Island. Named after the revered mythical creature from the Ramayana, this new naval base stands poised to become a cornerstone asset for the Navy in the region.
Commissioning Ceremony:
The ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Shri Praful K Patel, Hon’ble Administrator of Lakshadweep, Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOCINC), Southern Naval Command (SNC), alongside other senior naval dignitaries and distinguished guests. Integral elements of the event comprised a 50-man Guard of Honour accorded to the CNS, the solemn reading of the commissioning warrant, and the unfurling of the Naval Ensign.
Strategic Significance:
Strategically situated on Minicoy, the southernmost island of Lakshadweep, INS Jatayu commands crucial sea lines of communication (SLOCs), endowing India with enhanced maritime situational awareness in the vicinity. The base's inception empowers the Navy with comprehensive maritime operational capabilities, akin to INS Baaz stationed on the eastern flank in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The commissioning of INS Jatayu aligns with broader initiatives to establish a robust military infrastructure in Lakshadweep.
Expansion and Modernization:
The metamorphosis of Naval Detachment Minicoy into a fully-fledged naval base is underway, envisaging augmented officer deployments and the establishment of radar stations to facilitate seamless maritime surveillance. Furthermore, governmental approval is imminent for the construction of a new airport on Minicoy, catering to both military and civilian aircraft. Additionally, the green light has been granted for a 24-hour operational chopper hangar at Kavaratti, augmenting regional connectivity.
Addressing Maritime Challenges:
The timing of INS Jatayu's commissioning is poignant, coinciding with India's confrontation of diverse maritime threats, including piracy and escalating Chinese maritime activities in the Indian Ocean. Notably, Chinese submarines and research vessels have been increasingly active in the region, amplifying the necessity for heightened vigilance. Positioned a mere 130 km from Thuraakunu, the northernmost island of Maldives, INS Jatayu fortifies India's capability to monitor and respond to emergent challenges effectively.
Enhancing Regional Collaboration:
India's endeavors extend beyond fortifying its own maritime prowess, as evidenced by its collaborative ventures aimed at bolstering regional cooperation and security. In February 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritian counterpart Pravind Jugnauth inaugurated the St. James Jetty and six community development projects at Mauritius’ Agalega Island, all funded by India. These initiatives underscore India's steadfast commitment to fostering regional stability and cooperation.
This commissioning heralds a new era in India's maritime security architecture, reinforcing its resolve to safeguard its maritime interests while fostering collaborative endeavors towards regional prosperity and stability.