India celebrated Indian Navy Day on December 4 to commemorate the Karachi Harbour attack carried out by the Indian Navy during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. Naval personnel were greeted and lauded by Indian leaders, including both the President and Prime Minister of India.
“On Navy Day, my greetings to our Navy personnel, veterans, and their families. The nation is proud of your commitment to protecting our maritime frontiers, securing our trade routes, and providing assistance in times of civil emergencies. May you ever rule the waters. Jai Hind,” said President Ramnath Kovind, according to India Today.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted his forces, calling them fearless protectors during natural disasters and maritime missions.
“Navy Day greetings to all our valorous Navy personnel and their families. The Indian Navy fearlessly protects our coasts and also renders humanitarian assistance in times of need. We also remember India’s rich maritime tradition over centuries,” Prime Minster Modi said.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also lauded the naval personnel, calling them an outstanding force.
Indian Navy Day is celebrated every year on December 4 to mark the historic day of Operation Trident where the Indian Navy’s missile boat fleet obliterated Karachi Harbour and destroyed between four and five naval warships, including cargo ships. The mission completely destroyed Karachi Port, effectively disabling the Pakistan Navy’s operational capabilities.
Before Navy Day, Indian Navy Chief Karambir Singh cleared the fog on India’s intention of modernization plans for the Navy in the future. The Navy chief confirmed that the force is ready to have a third aircraft carrier as part of the doctrine, saying it is of utmost importance to induct another carrier to complete a three-carrier task force formation.
Chief Singh said the third carrier is absolutely necessary.
India’s Navy will evaluate the technical details and availabilities regarding the third carrier and will send a formal request to the government, the chief added as the nation strives to become a 5 trillion dollar economy by 2024. After the Indian Navy Day celebration, the Navy will head into its modernization phase with 60 vessels under construction meant for enhancing the Navy’s fleet.
