Indian Navy Day is celebrated on December 4th each year to commemorate the achievements and contributions of the Indian Navy. It marks the day in 1971 when the Indian Navy successfully executed Operation Trident during the Indo-Pakistani War, resulting in a significant victory.
During the 1971, Indo-Pak war Pakistan attacked an Indian Air Base on December 3rd. In response, Indian Navy Day launched ‘Operation Trident’, which took place on the night of December 4th and 5th, 1971, during the war. In this operation, the Indian Navy conducted a successful pre-emptive strike on the Karachi harbor, crippling the Pakistani naval capabilities.
According to various reports, during Operation Trident Indian Navy introduced the Vidyut-class missile boats, which include INS Veer, INS Nirghat, and INS Nipat, along with two anti-submarine corvettes, INS Kiltan and INS Katchall.
These vessels are under the leadership of Commander Babru Bhan Yadav, who commands the 25th missile boat squadron. all three boats played a pivotal role in the attack and successfully sank four Pakistani Navy ships, including the PNS Khaibar and ravaged the Karachi harbour fuel fields. In the war over 500 Pakistani Navy personnel were killed.
The motto of the Indian Navy is ‘Sham No Varunaḥ’, which means “May the lord of the water (Varuna) be auspicious to us” and on the occasion of Navy Day.
History and Significance:
Indian Navy Day commemorates the courage and valor of the Indian Navy during the 1971 war.
Operation Trident was a naval attack launched against the Pakistani Navy in Karachi, leading to substantial damage to their fleet. The day also honors the sacrifices made by Indian Navy personnel in the line of duty.
Celebrations:
On Navy Day, various events and ceremonies are organized across the country to showcase the capabilities and achievements of the Indian Navy. Naval vessels, aircraft, and personnel are often part of parades and demonstrations. The day is an opportunity to instill a sense of pride and patriotism among the citizens of India.
Facts About Indian Navy:
Formation: The Indian Navy was officially established on 26th January 1950, but Navy Day is celebrated on December 4th to commemorate the 1971 war victory.
Role and Missions: The primary role of the Indian Navy is to safeguard the maritime borders of the country. It also plays a crucial role in disaster relief and humanitarian assistance.
Naval Academy: The Indian Naval Academy, located in Ezhimala, Kerala, is the initial training establishment for officer candidates of the Indian Navy.
Submarine Arm: The Indian Navy operates a fleet of submarines, including both nuclear-powered and conventionally powered submarines.
Aircraft Carrier: INS Vikramaditya is the flagship aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy. It is a modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier.
International Cooperation: The Indian Navy engages in various bilateral and multilateral exercises with navies from other countries to enhance maritime cooperation and security.
Modernization: The Indian Navy continually focuses on modernization and upgrading its fleet with state-of-the-art technology to meet contemporary challenges.
Indian Navy Day serves as a reminder of the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and maintaining peace and security in the region.
Celebration
Last year the Indian Navy Day was celebrated at Visakhapatnam and it was the first time the event was celebrated outside the National Capital. In 2023, Navy Day festivities are set to take place at the historic Sindhudurg Fort along the Maharashtra shoreline. The fort, constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century, adds a special touch to the celebration.
This year’s Operational Demonstration, hosted by Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Chief of the Naval Staff, is set to be an impressive showcase. The event will present a spectacle with 20 warships and 40 aircraft, highlighting renowned models such as the MiG 29K and LCA Navy.
Other exciting highlights comprise a show by the Naval Band, a continuity drill, and a lively horn pipe dance presented by the SCC cadets. The festivities will reach their peak with a stunning display of illuminated ships at anchor, concluding with a dazzling laser show at the historic Sindhudurg Fort.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
The Maratha emperor, is considered the ‘Father of the Indian Navy.’ He is recognized for establishing a robust Maratha naval force, earning him the esteemed title. Realizing the significance of a maritime presence early on, Shivaji Maharaj foresaw its role in maintaining independence from external threats, including the Dutch, Portuguese, and British. Additionally, he aimed to safeguard the Konkan coast from pirate activities.
Shivaji Maharaj’s strategic vision materialized in the construction of naval forts at key locations such as Jaigarh, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and numerous others. These forts stood as guardians along the coast, symbolizing Shivaji’s commitment to maritime strength and the defense of his realm from both foreign powers and maritime marauders.
