Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, alongside Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, commissioned the INS Sandhayak at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam on Saturday. The commissioning ceremony was attended by dignitaries, highlighting the strategic importance of the newly commissioned vessel.
Upon his arrival in Visakhapatnam for the ceremony, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was accorded a Guard of Honour. Addressing the gathering, he underscored the formidable strength of the Indian Navy, positioning it as the first responder in terms of security and trade in the Indian Ocean and Indian Pacific region.
Singh emphasized the global significance of the Indian Ocean, noting key choke points like the Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Guinea, which play a crucial role in international trade. He acknowledged the persistent threat of piracy in these regions and reiterated India’s staunch stance against maritime piracy and smuggling.
“I will again say that people involved in maritime piracy and smuggling will not be tolerated under any circumstances; this is the pledge of new India,” asserted Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. He also commended the Indian Navy’s recent rescue mission, rescuing 80 fishermen, showcasing the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding the maritime domain.
Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, welcoming Defence Minister Singh, reaffirmed the Navy’s dedication to fostering a self-reliant (‘Atmanirbhar’) force in service of a stronger India. Admiral Kumar highlighted the Navy’s accomplishments in building indigenous warships and submarines, showcasing the country’s growing naval capabilities.
INS Sandhayak, the 34th addition to the Navy’s assets, is an advanced Survey Vessel, representing the first of four in its class. Launched on December 5, 2021, and officially delivered to the Indian Navy on December 4, 2023, the vessel marks a technological leap in survey capabilities.
The Defence Minister and Navy Chief both emphasized the vessel’s role in enhancing the Navy’s capabilities in monitoring and securing maritime routes, preventing illegal and unregulated fishing, and combatting narcotics and human trafficking in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region.
The commissioning of INS Sandhayak underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its naval prowess and securing its maritime interests. As the Indian Navy continues to modernize its fleet, the INS Sandhayak stands as a testament to India’s strides in indigenous naval technology and its dedication to maritime security.
Sources By Agencies