India has inducted a second aircraft carrier - INS Vikrant - into its fleet. How does India's naval fleet compare to world powers? Which country has the most powerful maritime force? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Comparing India's navy to world powers

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi unveiled the new ensign of the country’s Navy at the commissioning ceremony of INS Vikrant on Friday. INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier which was designed by Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited.&nbsp;

The new ensign of the Indian Navy features the tricolour of the national flag and it will no longer feature Saint George's cross – a constant feature of Navy flags since the pre-independence era.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ins-vikrant-indias-first-indigenous-aircraft-carrier-to-be-commissioned-today-512232" hreflang="en">PM Modi commissions INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier</a>

Modi, in his speech, touched on the topic and said that with this&nbsp;Navy Ensign (Nishaan), "India has shed its colonial past". 
 
"Till today Indian Naval flags carried a sign of slavery which has been replaced with a new one inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj," he said according to the news agency PTI.&nbsp;

"It was removed from the flag during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government between 2001 to 2004 but soon after Sonia Gandhi-led UPA came back to power, they brought it back citing certain issues raised by the then Navy officials," the announcer during the commissioning event told the attendees. &nbsp;

The flag also features a homage to legendary Indian warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Historical?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Historical</a>... 
 
Hon'ble PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> unveils the new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/naval?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#naval</a> ensign making 02 Sep 2022 as a momentous day in the history of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HarKaamDeshKeNaam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HarKaamDeshKeNaam</a><a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indiannavy</a> <a href="https://t.co/eu3BpmWQfX">pic.twitter.com/eu3BpmWQfX</a>
— IN (@IndiannavyMedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiannavyMedia/status/1565558443741626368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Modi also commissioned INS Vikrant — the aircraft carrier named after her illustrious predecessor and India`s first aircraft carrier, which played a vital role in the 1971 war. INS Vikrant is also the country's second aircraft carrier after INS Vikramaditya, which was built on a Russian platform.&nbsp;

The warship is 262 metres long and 62 metres wide. According to a video released by the Indian Navy, the INS Vikrant is big enough to cover two&nbsp;football fields end-to-end and 18 floors tall.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi unveiled the new ensign of the country’s Navy at the commissioning ceremony of INS Vikrant on Friday. INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier which was designed by Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited.

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi unveiled the new ensign of the country’s Navy at the commissioning ceremony of INS Vikrant on Friday. INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier which was designed by Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited. The new ensign of the Indian Navy features the tricolour of the national flag and it will no longer feature Saint George's cross – a constant feature of Navy flags since the pre-independence era. Also read | PM Modi commissions INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier Modi, in his speech, touched on the topic and said that with this Navy Ensign (Nishaan), "India has shed its colonial past". "Till today Indian Naval flags carried a sign of slavery which has been replaced with a new one inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj," he said according to the news agency PTI. "It was removed from the flag during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government between 2001 to 2004 but soon after Sonia Gandhi-led UPA came back to power, they brought it back citing certain issues raised by the then Navy officials," the announcer during the commissioning event told the attendees. The flag also features a homage to legendary Indian warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji. #Historical... Hon'ble PM @narendramodi unveils the new #naval ensign making 02 Sep 2022 as a momentous day in the history of #IndianNavy#HarKaamDeshKeNaam@DefenceMinIndia@Indiannavy pic.twitter.com/eu3BpmWQfX — IN (@IndiannavyMedia) September 2, 2022 × Modi also commissioned INS Vikrant — the aircraft carrier named after her illustrious predecessor and India`s first aircraft carrier, which played a vital role in the 1971 war. INS Vikrant is also the country's second aircraft carrier after INS Vikramaditya, which was built on a Russian platform. The warship is 262 metres long and 62 metres wide. According to a video released by the Indian Navy, the INS Vikrant is big enough to cover two football fields end-to-end and 18 floors tall.

PM Narendra Modi unveils new naval ensign for Indian Navy - See pic

It's a big day for Indian Navy today as INS Vikrant is being commissioned by the Indian PM Narendra Modi. INS Vikrant is a completely indigenously-built aircraft carrier, the biggest that India has built in its history.

WION Dispatch: INS Vikrant joins the Indian Navy, 1st indigenous aircraft carrier

India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant was commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today (Friday) in India’s southern Kochi city.

The aircraft carrier is designed by the Indian Navy’s in-house Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, a state unit under the ministry of ports, shipping and waterways.&nbsp;The warship has been built using indigenous equipment and machinery supplied by India's major industrial houses as well as over 100 MSMEs.

Touted as “the city on the move”, Vikrant has been built with state-of-the-art automation features and is the largest ship ever built in the maritime history of India.

The aircraft carrier is named after her illustrious predecessor and India`s first aircraft carrier, which played a vital role in the 1971 war.

INS Vikrant is the country's second aircraft carrier after INS Vikramaditya, which was built on a Russian platform.

The warship is 262 metres long and 62 metres wide. To understand how big it is, the warship is as massive as two football fields end-to-end and 18 floors tall, the Navy said in a video.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Indigenous Aircraft Carrier <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IACVikrant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IACVikrant</a> the largest &amp; most complex warship ever built in the maritime history of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>, named after her illustrious predecessor, India’s first Aircraft Carrier which played a vital role in the 1971 war is all set to be commissioned<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INSVikrant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INSVikrant</a> <a href="https://t.co/ADsSoIXUNr">pic.twitter.com/ADsSoIXUNr</a>
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia/status/1565536614927200257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the guard of honour as he arrived for the commissioning ceremony of INS Vikrant at Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi. 
 
Speaking about the specifications of INS Vikrant, Vice Admiral M A Hampiholi&nbsp;said, "Vikrant carries a mix of about 30 aircraft. It could fly the MiG 29k fighter aircraft in anti-air, anti-surface and land attack roles. It will be able to operate the Kamov 31 which is an early air warning helicopter, the recently inducted but yet-to-be commissioned MH-60R which is a multi-role helicopter as also our very indigenous ALH. It displaces about 45,000 tonnes and is definitely the largest warship in the Indian naval inventory.”&nbsp;

With the commissioning of Vikrant, India has joined a select group of nations having the niche capability to indigenously design and build an aircraft carrier, reports ANI news agency.

Vikrant consists of 14 decks with 2,300 compartments which can carry around 1,500 sea warriors and to cater to the food requirements, around 10,000 chapatis are made in the ship's kitchen, which is called the ship’s galley.

The ship is powered by four gas turbines totalling 88 MW power and has a maximum speed of 28 Knots.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant was commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today (Friday) in India’s southern Kochi city. The aircraft carrier is designed by the Indian Navy’s in-house Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, a state unit under the ministry of ports, shipping and waterways.

India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant was commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today (Friday) in India’s southern Kochi city. The aircraft carrier is designed by the Indian Navy’s in-house Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, a state unit under the ministry of ports, shipping and waterways. The warship has been built using indigenous equipment and machinery supplied by India's major industrial houses as well as over 100 MSMEs. Touted as “the city on the move”, Vikrant has been built with state-of-the-art automation features and is the largest ship ever built in the maritime history of India. The aircraft carrier is named after her illustrious predecessor and India`s first aircraft carrier, which played a vital role in the 1971 war. INS Vikrant is the country's second aircraft carrier after INS Vikramaditya, which was built on a Russian platform. The warship is 262 metres long and 62 metres wide. To understand how big it is, the warship is as massive as two football fields end-to-end and 18 floors tall, the Navy said in a video. Indigenous Aircraft Carrier #IACVikrant the largest & most complex warship ever built in the maritime history of #India, named after her illustrious predecessor, India’s first Aircraft Carrier which played a vital role in the 1971 war is all set to be commissioned#INSVikrant pic.twitter.com/ADsSoIXUNr — रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) September 2, 2022 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the guard of honour as he arrived for the commissioning ceremony of INS Vikrant at Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi. Speaking about the specifications of INS Vikrant, Vice Admiral M A Hampiholi said, "Vikrant carries a mix of about 30 aircraft. It could fly the MiG 29k fighter aircraft in anti-air, anti-surface and land attack roles. It will be able to operate the Kamov 31 which is an early air warning helicopter, the recently inducted but yet-to-be commissioned MH-60R which is a multi-role helicopter as also our very indigenous ALH. It displaces about 45,000 tonnes and is definitely the largest warship in the Indian naval inventory.” With the commissioning of Vikrant, India has joined a select group of nations having the niche capability to indigenously design and build an aircraft carrier, reports ANI news agency. Vikrant consists of 14 decks with 2,300 compartments which can carry around 1,500 sea warriors and to cater to the food requirements, around 10,000 chapatis are made in the ship's kitchen, which is called the ship’s galley. The ship is powered by four gas turbines totalling 88 MW power and has a maximum speed of 28 Knots. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi commissions INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier

It's a big day for Indian Navy today as INS Vikrant is being commissioned today by the Indian PM Narendra Modi. PM Modi also unveiled new Naval sign for the Indian Navy.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils new ensign for the Indian Navy

India is commemorating 75 years of Independence and as part of these celebrations, the Indian Navy's undertaking commemorative visits to foreign ports in every continent except Antarctica.

India Navy visits 6 continents and plans events in 7 countries; highlights global presence

For the first time in India’s history, five women officers of the Indian Navy’s INAS 314 completed a maritime reconnaissance and surveillance mission onboard&nbsp;a Dornier 228 aircraft in the North Arabian Sea. These officers are based at the Naval Air Enclave in western Gujarat’s Porbandar city.

The aircraft was captained by the Mission Commander, Lieutenant Commander Aanchal Sharma, who had pilots — Lt Shivangi and Lt Apurva Gite — and tactical and sensor officers Lt Pooja Panda and Sub Lt Pooja Shekhawat in her team, according to the statement by the Indian Navy.

INAS 314 is a frontline Naval Air Squadron and operates the state-of-the-art Dornier 228 maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

In the run-up to the historical sortie, the women officers received months of ground training and comprehensive mission briefings.

Considering that this is a first-of-its-kind military flying mission, the Navy expects the achievement to pave the way for women officers in the aviation cadre to assume greater responsibility and aspire for more challenging roles.

“The Indian Navy has been a front-runner in driving transformation in the Armed Forces. Its impressive and pioneering women empowerment initiatives include induction of women pilots, selection of women Air Operations Officers into the helicopter stream and conducting an all-women sailing circumnavigation expedition across the globe in 2018,” it said in the press note.

“It perhaps marks a unique achievement for the Armed Forces that a crew of only women officers undertook an independent operational mission in a multi-crew maritime surveillance aircraft,” it added.

The 19-seater Dornier 228 was developed by the India state unit Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It is a highly versatile multi-purpose light transport aircraft.

It has been developed specifically to meet the manifold requirements of utility and commuter transport, third-level services and air-taxi operations, coast guard duties and maritime surveillance.

The&nbsp;Dornier 228 is based on German design and production of the 1980s-90s. &nbsp;In&nbsp;1983, HAL bought a production licence and manufactured at least 125 aircraft. In July 2017, 63 aircraft were still in airline service.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

For the first time in India’s history, five women officers of the Indian Navy’s INAS 314 completed a maritime reconnaissance and surveillance mission onboard a Dornier 228 aircraft in the North Arabian Sea.

For the first time in India’s history, five women officers of the Indian Navy’s INAS 314 completed a maritime reconnaissance and surveillance mission onboard a Dornier 228 aircraft in the North Arabian Sea. These officers are based at the Naval Air Enclave in western Gujarat’s Porbandar city. The aircraft was captained by the Mission Commander, Lieutenant Commander Aanchal Sharma, who had pilots — Lt Shivangi and Lt Apurva Gite — and tactical and sensor officers Lt Pooja Panda and Sub Lt Pooja Shekhawat in her team, according to the statement by the Indian Navy. INAS 314 is a frontline Naval Air Squadron and operates the state-of-the-art Dornier 228 maritime reconnaissance aircraft. In the run-up to the historical sortie, the women officers received months of ground training and comprehensive mission briefings. Considering that this is a first-of-its-kind military flying mission, the Navy expects the achievement to pave the way for women officers in the aviation cadre to assume greater responsibility and aspire for more challenging roles. “The Indian Navy has been a front-runner in driving transformation in the Armed Forces. Its impressive and pioneering women empowerment initiatives include induction of women pilots, selection of women Air Operations Officers into the helicopter stream and conducting an all-women sailing circumnavigation expedition across the globe in 2018,” it said in the press note. “It perhaps marks a unique achievement for the Armed Forces that a crew of only women officers undertook an independent operational mission in a multi-crew maritime surveillance aircraft,” it added. The 19-seater Dornier 228 was developed by the India state unit Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It is a highly versatile multi-purpose light transport aircraft. It has been developed specifically to meet the manifold requirements of utility and commuter transport, third-level services and air-taxi operations, coast guard duties and maritime surveillance. The Dornier 228 is based on German design and production of the 1980s-90s. In 1983, HAL bought a production licence and manufactured at least 125 aircraft. In July 2017, 63 aircraft were still in airline service. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In a first, Indian Navy’s all-women aircrew conducts surveillance mission over Arabian Sea

Why India's indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant worries China

NASM-SR: How Indian Navy's new anti-ship missile can change warfare dynamics

INS Garuda, the oldest Air Station of the Indian Navy completed 69 years in service of the nation. Originally setup as a British-era airfield to support Royal Airforce activities, the base came up in the Kochi city in the Southern state of Kerala, on India's west coast. From supporting Royal Airforce activities in the 1940s, the air station has come a long way and plays a major role major operational and training role, as the only Naval Air station under India's Southern Naval Command.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-police-investigate-woman-for-spreading-rumours-about-lockdown-in-beijing-478662" hreflang="en">Chinese police investigate woman for spreading Beijing lockdown 'rumours'</a>

In 1941, the airfield was setup to support the Royal Airforce and two years later it was established as a Royal Navy Air Station to support Royal Navy ships. In 1952, five years after India's independence, the base was rechristened 'Venduruthy II' and later in 1953 commissioned as INS Garuda, by the then Indian Defence Minister Mahavir Tyagi.&nbsp;

Among the major contemporary roles of INS Garuda include the active conduct of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations in the Indian Ocean Region. The station has played a significant role in the enormous air efforts that were carried out to aid Kerala during the devastating 2018 floods. Recently, a Naval helicopter from INS Garuda had also provided emergency medical evacuation for a foreign Navy sailor and brought her to shores for treatment, following which she was repatriated.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/which-territories-are-under-russian-control-and-where-is-ukraine-offering-stiff-resistance-478685">Which territories are under Russian control and where is Ukraine resisting?</a>

In his address, Commodore VB Bellary, Commanding Officer, INS Garuda emphasized on the need to always remain operationally ready and reiterated the station's commitment towards meeting all tasks.&nbsp;

INS Garuda, the oldest Air Station of the Indian Navy completed 69 years in service of the nation. Originally setup as a British-era airfield to support Royal Airforce activities, the base came up in the Kochi city in the Southern state of Kerala, on India's west coast.

INS Garuda, the oldest Air Station of the Indian Navy completed 69 years in service of the nation. Originally setup as a British-era airfield to support Royal Airforce activities, the base came up in the Kochi city in the Southern state of Kerala, on India's west coast. From supporting Royal Airforce activities in the 1940s, the air station has come a long way and plays a major role major operational and training role, as the only Naval Air station under India's Southern Naval Command. Also read | Chinese police investigate woman for spreading Beijing lockdown 'rumours' In 1941, the airfield was setup to support the Royal Airforce and two years later it was established as a Royal Navy Air Station to support Royal Navy ships. In 1952, five years after India's independence, the base was rechristened 'Venduruthy II' and later in 1953 commissioned as INS Garuda, by the then Indian Defence Minister Mahavir Tyagi. Among the major contemporary roles of INS Garuda include the active conduct of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations in the Indian Ocean Region. The station has played a significant role in the enormous air efforts that were carried out to aid Kerala during the devastating 2018 floods. Recently, a Naval helicopter from INS Garuda had also provided emergency medical evacuation for a foreign Navy sailor and brought her to shores for treatment, following which she was repatriated. Also read | Which territories are under Russian control and where is Ukraine resisting? In his address, Commodore VB Bellary, Commanding Officer, INS Garuda emphasized on the need to always remain operationally ready and reiterated the station's commitment towards meeting all tasks.

Indian Navy's oldest air station completes 69 years in service of nation

Four ships of India's First Training Squadron are on a four-day visit to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia&nbsp;as part of a five-nation overseas deployment.

The First Training Squadron comprises of three Indian Navy ships and one Indian Coast Guard ship and is&nbsp;meant to&nbsp;provide&nbsp;hands-on, real-world training to newly-commissioned officers of the Navy and Coast Guard.

On the completion of their ab-initio training from the Indian Naval Academy, the young officers are sent for a six-month-long training period onboard the ships&nbsp;where they perform all crucial tasks and master the skill of seamanship.

During this visit, Captain Aftab Ahmed Khan, senior officer, First Training Squadron along with commanding officers of the accompanying Indian ships called on Rear Admiral Yahya Bin Mohammed Al-Assiri, Western Fleet Commander of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces. Issues of bilateral Naval cooperation and training initiatives between the two countries were among the significant points of discussion.

Indian Navy ships Tir, Sujata, Tarangini&nbsp;and Coast Guard Ship Sarathi will be involved in interactions and training exchange with officials from Royal Navy of Saudi Arabia and various other dignitaries.

Four ships of India's First Training Squadron are on a four-day visit to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia as part of a five-nation overseas deployment. The First Training Squadron comprises of three Indian Navy ships and one Indian Coast Guard ship and is meant to provide hands-on, real-world training to newly-commissioned officers of the Navy and Coast Guard.

Four ships of India's First Training Squadron are on a four-day visit to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia as part of a five-nation overseas deployment. The First Training Squadron comprises of three Indian Navy ships and one Indian Coast Guard ship and is meant to provide hands-on, real-world training to newly-commissioned officers of the Navy and Coast Guard. On the completion of their ab-initio training from the Indian Naval Academy, the young officers are sent for a six-month-long training period onboard the ships where they perform all crucial tasks and master the skill of seamanship. During this visit, Captain Aftab Ahmed Khan, senior officer, First Training Squadron along with commanding officers of the accompanying Indian ships called on Rear Admiral Yahya Bin Mohammed Al-Assiri, Western Fleet Commander of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces. Issues of bilateral Naval cooperation and training initiatives between the two countries were among the significant points of discussion. Indian Navy ships Tir, Sujata, Tarangini and Coast Guard Ship Sarathi will be involved in interactions and training exchange with officials from Royal Navy of Saudi Arabia and various other dignitaries.

Indian Navy, Coast Guard ships from First Training Squadron visit Saudi Arabia on overseas deployment

India has repatriated a woman sailor of the Seychelles Coast Guard, for whom India provided mid-sea assistance and medical evacuation during an emergency, while she was off India's Western coast, near Lakshadweep. This act of goodwill has further enhanced the bilateral ties between India and the Indian Ocean littoral state. Notably, India's Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Hari Kumar is on a three-day (Apr 21-23rd) visit to Seychelles to further deepen the ties.

On April 14th, the sailor was on-board the Seychelles Coast Guard vessel SCGS Zoroaster transiting Indian waters and sailing back home, when she reported severe abdominal pain. Since the foreign ship Zoroaster was being escorted by Indian Navy's INS Garuda, the sailor was shifted to the Indian ship for further medical management and evacuation. Later that afternoon, India's indigenously-built Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), operated from the Indian Navy's INS Garuda base in Kochi successfully completed the medical evacuation.

Then, the patient who was brought to INS Garuda Naval Air Base in Kochi was shifted to INHS Sanjivani by ambulance and was observed to be in a stable condition. In order to facilitate a medical evacuation, the Indian Navy had prepared the ALH and Sea King 42C helicopters at Kochi. Eventually, the ALH chopper with a Naval Medical officer on-board took off from the base and headed towards INS Sharda, which was 15 km north of Minicoy Islands, off India's West Coast. In a little over four hours from the time of the chopper having lifted off from Kochi, the patient was brought to the city for further treatment, on April 14th .&nbsp;

Seychelles Peoples Defence Force Ship Zoroaster was on a goodwill visit to Kochi from 11-12th April 2022. Zoroaster is a Fast Attack Craft constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders Engineering (GRSE) Kolkata and presented to Seychelles People’s Defence Force in 2021. The ship is on her return passage to Seychelles after participating in multi-lateral exercise MILAN-22 at Visakhapatnam. The ship also visited Kochi in January 2022 during her passage to Visakhapatnam. The visit of Zoroaster to Kochi has enhanced the defence cooperation between the two countries.

India has repatriated a woman sailor of the Seychelles Coast Guard, for whom India provided mid-sea assistance and medical evacuation during an emergency, while she was off India's Western coast, near Lakshadweep.

India has repatriated a woman sailor of the Seychelles Coast Guard, for whom India provided mid-sea assistance and medical evacuation during an emergency, while she was off India's Western coast, near Lakshadweep. This act of goodwill has further enhanced the bilateral ties between India and the Indian Ocean littoral state. Notably, India's Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Hari Kumar is on a three-day (Apr 21-23rd) visit to Seychelles to further deepen the ties. On April 14th, the sailor was on-board the Seychelles Coast Guard vessel SCGS Zoroaster transiting Indian waters and sailing back home, when she reported severe abdominal pain. Since the foreign ship Zoroaster was being escorted by Indian Navy's INS Garuda, the sailor was shifted to the Indian ship for further medical management and evacuation. Later that afternoon, India's indigenously-built Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), operated from the Indian Navy's INS Garuda base in Kochi successfully completed the medical evacuation. Then, the patient who was brought to INS Garuda Naval Air Base in Kochi was shifted to INHS Sanjivani by ambulance and was observed to be in a stable condition. In order to facilitate a medical evacuation, the Indian Navy had prepared the ALH and Sea King 42C helicopters at Kochi. Eventually, the ALH chopper with a Naval Medical officer on-board took off from the base and headed towards INS Sharda, which was 15 km north of Minicoy Islands, off India's West Coast. In a little over four hours from the time of the chopper having lifted off from Kochi, the patient was brought to the city for further treatment, on April 14th . Seychelles Peoples Defence Force Ship Zoroaster was on a goodwill visit to Kochi from 11-12th April 2022. Zoroaster is a Fast Attack Craft constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders Engineering (GRSE) Kolkata and presented to Seychelles People’s Defence Force in 2021. The ship is on her return passage to Seychelles after participating in multi-lateral exercise MILAN-22 at Visakhapatnam. The ship also visited Kochi in January 2022 during her passage to Visakhapatnam. The visit of Zoroaster to Kochi has enhanced the defence cooperation between the two countries.

After her recovery, India repatriates Seychelles Coast Guard sailor who had mid-sea medical emergency

India's indigenously built advanced light helicopter (ALH), operated from the Indian Navy's INS Garuda base in Kochi, successfully completed the medical evacuation of a woman crew member of a Seychelles Coast Guard ship (SCGS), off India's west coast.

The patient, who was brought to INS Garuda Naval Air Base in Kochi, was shifted to INHS Sanjivani by ambulance and is said to be in a stable condition.

On Thursday morning, SCGS Zoroaster vessel was being escorted by INS Sharda during the former's voyage from Kochi at India's West Coast to Victoria, Seychelles.&nbsp;

Around 9.30 am (local time), private Allison Labiche, a crew member onboard the Seychelles' vessel, reported severe abdominal pain and was shifted to INS Sharda by boat, for further medical management and evacuation.

In order to facilitate a medical evacuation, the Indian Navy had prepared the ALH and Seaking 42C helicopters at Kochi.

At 12.33 pm (local time), the ALH chopper with a Naval medical officer on-board took off from the base and headed towards INS Sharda, which was 15km north of Minicoy Islands, off India's West coast.

In a little over four hours, the patient was brought to Kochi for further treatment.

Seychelles Peoples Defence Force Ship Zoroaster was on a goodwill visit to Kochi from April 11.

Zoroaster is a fast attack craft constructed by the Garden Reach Shipbuilders Engineering (GRSE) Kolkata and presented to Seychelles People’s Defence Force in 2021.

The ship is on her return passage to Seychelles after participating in multi-lateral exercise MILAN-22 at Visakhapatnam.

The ship also visited Kochi in January 2022 during her passage to Visakhapatnam. The visit of Zoroaster to Kochi has enhanced the defence cooperation between the two countries.

India's indigenously built advanced light helicopter (ALH), operated from the Indian Navy's INS Garuda base in Kochi, successfully completed the medical evacuation of a woman crew member of a Seychelles Coast Guard ship (SCGS), off India's west coast.

India's indigenously built advanced light helicopter (ALH), operated from the Indian Navy's INS Garuda base in Kochi, successfully completed the medical evacuation of a woman crew member of a Seychelles Coast Guard ship (SCGS), off India's west coast. The patient, who was brought to INS Garuda Naval Air Base in Kochi, was shifted to INHS Sanjivani by ambulance and is said to be in a stable condition. On Thursday morning, SCGS Zoroaster vessel was being escorted by INS Sharda during the former's voyage from Kochi at India's West Coast to Victoria, Seychelles. Around 9.30 am (local time), private Allison Labiche, a crew member onboard the Seychelles' vessel, reported severe abdominal pain and was shifted to INS Sharda by boat, for further medical management and evacuation. In order to facilitate a medical evacuation, the Indian Navy had prepared the ALH and Seaking 42C helicopters at Kochi. At 12.33 pm (local time), the ALH chopper with a Naval medical officer on-board took off from the base and headed towards INS Sharda, which was 15km north of Minicoy Islands, off India's West coast. In a little over four hours, the patient was brought to Kochi for further treatment. Seychelles Peoples Defence Force Ship Zoroaster was on a goodwill visit to Kochi from April 11. Zoroaster is a fast attack craft constructed by the Garden Reach Shipbuilders Engineering (GRSE) Kolkata and presented to Seychelles People’s Defence Force in 2021. The ship is on her return passage to Seychelles after participating in multi-lateral exercise MILAN-22 at Visakhapatnam. The ship also visited Kochi in January 2022 during her passage to Visakhapatnam. The visit of Zoroaster to Kochi has enhanced the defence cooperation between the two countries.

Indian Navy comes to the rescue of Seychelles Coast Guard crew member seeking medical help

&nbsp;As part of increased maritime cooperation, India and Maldives have jointly unveiled a navigation chart.

This is the first such navigation chart produced by both countries. It was unveiled during India's Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral R Hari Kumar's visit to Maldives.

The chart is part of practical cooperation between the Naval forces of the two countries and helps ships to understand the maritime topography of Maldives Exclusive Economic zones, water depths, areas to avoid etc.

The fact that the Indian Navy chief choose Maldives as his first overseas visit after taking charge also shows Delhi’s increased engagement in the Indian Ocean and more focus on maritime.

Adm R Hari Kumar is on a three-day visit to Maldives from April 18 to April 20. During the visit, he called on President Ibrahim Mohamad Solih, Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Defence Minister Mariya Didi and Chief of Defence Staff Major General Abdulla Shamaal.

During a meeting with the Indian naval chief, Maldives Defence Minister Mariya noted the "promptness with which India submitted the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the Coast Guard Harbour and Dockyard to Maldives, the review of which will be completed soon,” a Maldives defence ministry statement said.

Last year, India and Maldives signed a pact for the development of a coast guard harbour for maritime security.

The harbour will be developed at Uthuru Thila Falhu naval base. The pact was signed last year during Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's visit to the country.

She also appreciated the Indian Navy's support in the maintenance and repair of the MNDF Coast Guard Fleet and transport of medicines and hospital consumables to Maldives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under mission ‘Sagar One’ of the Indian Navy, India reached out to five Indian Ocean countries, including the Maldives.

Indian Navy Ship Kesari delivered 600 tons of food items to the island country.

During the visit, CNS handed over hydrography equipment to consolidate the organic capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF). Additionally, he presented a consignment of engineering equipment for further sustenance of MNDF ships, something that will enhance the capacity building efforts.

Maldives defence minister expressed "appreciation for the continuous assistance and support rendered by the Indian Navy in maintenance and repair of MNDF Coast Guard Fleet", Maldives statement pointed out.

An Indian Navy statement said, "This visit further consolidates the strong and long standing bilateral relations between two close maritime neighbours and also identified new avenues of expanding the scope of bilateral cooperation in defence and maritime domain."

The Navy chief's visit comes in the backdrop of two high profile visits from Delhi to the Maldives—India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval for the Colombo Security Dialogue and Jaishankar's bilateral visit.

As part of increased maritime cooperation, India and Maldives have jointly unveiled a navigation chart. This is the first such navigation chart produced by both countries.

As part of increased maritime cooperation, India and Maldives have jointly unveiled a navigation chart. This is the first such navigation chart produced by both countries. It was unveiled during India's Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral R Hari Kumar's visit to Maldives. The chart is part of practical cooperation between the Naval forces of the two countries and helps ships to understand the maritime topography of Maldives Exclusive Economic zones, water depths, areas to avoid etc. The fact that the Indian Navy chief choose Maldives as his first overseas visit after taking charge also shows Delhi’s increased engagement in the Indian Ocean and more focus on maritime. Adm R Hari Kumar is on a three-day visit to Maldives from April 18 to April 20. During the visit, he called on President Ibrahim Mohamad Solih, Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Defence Minister Mariya Didi and Chief of Defence Staff Major General Abdulla Shamaal. During a meeting with the Indian naval chief, Maldives Defence Minister Mariya noted the "promptness with which India submitted the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the Coast Guard Harbour and Dockyard to Maldives, the review of which will be completed soon,” a Maldives defence ministry statement said. Last year, India and Maldives signed a pact for the development of a coast guard harbour for maritime security. The harbour will be developed at Uthuru Thila Falhu naval base. The pact was signed last year during Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's visit to the country. She also appreciated the Indian Navy's support in the maintenance and repair of the MNDF Coast Guard Fleet and transport of medicines and hospital consumables to Maldives during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under mission ‘Sagar One’ of the Indian Navy, India reached out to five Indian Ocean countries, including the Maldives. Indian Navy Ship Kesari delivered 600 tons of food items to the island country. During the visit, CNS handed over hydrography equipment to consolidate the organic capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF). Additionally, he presented a consignment of engineering equipment for further sustenance of MNDF ships, something that will enhance the capacity building efforts. Maldives defence minister expressed "appreciation for the continuous assistance and support rendered by the Indian Navy in maintenance and repair of MNDF Coast Guard Fleet", Maldives statement pointed out. An Indian Navy statement said, "This visit further consolidates the strong and long standing bilateral relations between two close maritime neighbours and also identified new avenues of expanding the scope of bilateral cooperation in defence and maritime domain." The Navy chief's visit comes in the backdrop of two high profile visits from Delhi to the Maldives—India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval for the Colombo Security Dialogue and Jaishankar's bilateral visit.

As part of close maritime cooperation, India and Maldives jointly unveil navigation chart

Shyam Sundar, 24, just completed the final handover formalities of his Mechanical Design job at a leading Indian IT firm, where he was recruited fresh out of Engineering College.

The first graduate of the family is leaving behind his cherished first job. As he was the first member of their family to have a formal sector job, this job meant the world to their family that had been struggling to make ends meet.

His father, Umapathy, a security guard working in hotels, had lost his job amid the pandemic, whereas his mother, Anuradha, who runs a tailoring shop, earns the bare minimum.

Shyam's income held the family afloat and also paid for his younger brother's college education. But the young man is a chosen one, and he's getting ready to pursue his dream of becoming an Indian Navy Officer.

WION spoke to Shyam Sundar, who will be commencing his training at the Indian Naval Academy (Asia's largest such facility) on February 6th.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Excl: Shyam Sundar, a 24yr old from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> cracked <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SSB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SSB</a> in maiden attempt, to join <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> Naval academy on Feb6th 
 
His dad is a security guard, mom a tailor, they stay in a rented house.1st grad in their family, Shyam quit his IT job after getting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/navy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#navy</a> call letter <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://t.co/GPsDQG97Bs">pic.twitter.com/GPsDQG97Bs</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1488869083743338497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Growing up in Chennai, Shyam had to switch multiple schools in search of more affordable options, owing to his family's weak financial situation. However, the challenges before him only furthered his resolve to work harder and support his parents.

Following the State Board Syllabus, he received an overall grade point average of 91.4% in the subjects Math, Physics, and Chemistry on his 12th grade board exam.

This high score landed him an opportunity to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, at a private college in the city.

Thanks to his commendable academic performance in college, he landed two job offers, from which he chose the mechanical design job with the IT firm. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-naval-academy-inside-look-at-asias-largest-naval-academy-the-cradle-of-indias-future-naval-leadership-434858">Pictures: Inside look at Asia’s largest Naval Academy, the cradle of India’s future naval leadership</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/2021/12/07/225301-untitled-design-8.jpg" />

During college, his desire to keep himself fit drew him to the neighbourhood gym, one with bare-minimum manual equipment. It was there that he happened to have a chance meeting with a government employee, who rekindled the young man's idea of joining the Armed Forces and serving the country.

Thereafter, Shyam was put in touch with veteran Armed Forces officers, who guided him and provided more clarity on what lay ahead.

"I've always had a patriotic spirit, but I had to support my family right after my studies and had no option other than to take up the IT job. Working helped me seek a loan, and I could assist the family in settling down to a considerable level. That's when I came across the opportunity to apply for a career in the Indian Navy, and there were no second thoughts, " he recalls.

Despite it being his maiden attempt at this exam, it was his one and only shot at joining the Navy, owing to age criteria. Earlier, with hardly any preparation and guidance, he had also attempted similar exams such as the Air Force Common Admission Test and the Central Armed Police Forces Exam. However, both those attempts were unsuccessful.

"Amid my hectic work schedule, I had only two weeks to prepare for the exam. I had also sought 10 days of leave from work on an emergency basis in order to attend the interview. Besides the books that I managed to purchase, I also referred to certain websites and apps to gain further knowledge. Much of my preparation happened during my train journey from Chennai to Visakhapatnam (where the test happened), "he says regarding his preparation.

Up against candidates from well-to-do backgrounds and those with degrees from elite institutions, Shyam Sundar was the lone candidate to make it among the group that was interviewed in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Looking back, Shyam says he's glad to have focused on developing his personality and officer-like qualities, besides working hard on his communication skills and knowledge of current affairs.

Having received the call letter to join the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala, the family is marshalling their resources to help their son achieve his dream of serving the country. Amid the pandemic, having lost his job as a security guard, Shyam's father is now looking for work, while his mother continues to take care of her tailoring shop. In his final year of college, his younger sibling is looking forward to finding a job and taking over the family responsibilities.

His mother, Anuradha, is happy that her son has gotten this far in life and is going to serve the country, but she also admits that it’s difficult for her as a mother to stay away from him.

"He's been with us throughout his schooling and college, so I find it a little hard to accept. However, all our relatives and friends encouraged me and made me understand the magnitude of his achievement. With our limited means, we couldn't do much for him. It was all his focus and effort that took him there, " she says.

Amid his frantic search for a job and managing to pay off their home rent and cover family expenses, the news of their son having made it to the INA, has made Shyam's father a happy man. "Everyone is telling us that it is a God-given life and career, and they are wishing him well for his future. They say that he'll return from the academy as a completely transformed person. Meanwhile, I can find work and contribute to the family," Umapathy beams with pride.

At the INA, Shyam will be undergoing a one-year course of ab-initio training that is aimed at developing the trainees morally, mentally, and physically.

The Indian Navy's INA, known as the "Cradle for Leadership," instils in its cadets the high ideals of loyalty, valour, and patriotism.

Completing the course at INA and a few years of training at specialised naval facilities prepares trainees to become future leaders in the Indian Navy. On completing the course at INA, Shyam will earn the rank of a Sub Lieutenant. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-naval-academy-inside-look-at-asias-largest-naval-academy-the-cradle-of-indias-future-naval-leadership-434858">Pictures: Inside look at Asia’s largest Naval Academy, the cradle of India’s future naval leadership</a>

Shyam was among the defence aspirants mentored by 'Dream of Defence," a tightly-knit group run by veteran defence officers, at no cost. Students from across Tamil Nadu are part of this messaging group, where veteran armed forces officers interact with, coach, and mentor defence aspirants, based on their individual goals of joining the tri-services. Occasionally, the mentors meet the students and offer personal mentorship, along with offering orientation sessions and specialised classes via online platforms.

Shyam Sundar, 24, just completed the final handover formalities of his Mechanical Design job at a leading Indian IT firm, where he was recruited fresh out of Engineering College.

Shyam Sundar, 24, just completed the final handover formalities of his Mechanical Design job at a leading Indian IT firm, where he was recruited fresh out of Engineering College. The first graduate of the family is leaving behind his cherished first job. As he was the first member of their family to have a formal sector job, this job meant the world to their family that had been struggling to make ends meet. His father, Umapathy, a security guard working in hotels, had lost his job amid the pandemic, whereas his mother, Anuradha, who runs a tailoring shop, earns the bare minimum. Shyam's income held the family afloat and also paid for his younger brother's college education. But the young man is a chosen one, and he's getting ready to pursue his dream of becoming an Indian Navy Officer. WION spoke to Shyam Sundar, who will be commencing his training at the Indian Naval Academy (Asia's largest such facility) on February 6th. Excl: Shyam Sundar, a 24yr old from #Chennai cracked #SSB in maiden attempt, to join #Indian Naval academy on Feb6th His dad is a security guard, mom a tailor, they stay in a rented house.1st grad in their family, Shyam quit his IT job after getting #navy call letter #India pic.twitter.com/GPsDQG97Bs — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 2, 2022 × Growing up in Chennai, Shyam had to switch multiple schools in search of more affordable options, owing to his family's weak financial situation. However, the challenges before him only furthered his resolve to work harder and support his parents. Following the State Board Syllabus, he received an overall grade point average of 91.4% in the subjects Math, Physics, and Chemistry on his 12th grade board exam. This high score landed him an opportunity to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, at a private college in the city. Thanks to his commendable academic performance in college, he landed two job offers, from which he chose the mechanical design job with the IT firm. Pictures: Inside look at Asia’s largest Naval Academy, the cradle of India’s future naval leadership During college, his desire to keep himself fit drew him to the neighbourhood gym, one with bare-minimum manual equipment. It was there that he happened to have a chance meeting with a government employee, who rekindled the young man's idea of joining the Armed Forces and serving the country. Thereafter, Shyam was put in touch with veteran Armed Forces officers, who guided him and provided more clarity on what lay ahead. "I've always had a patriotic spirit, but I had to support my family right after my studies and had no option other than to take up the IT job. Working helped me seek a loan, and I could assist the family in settling down to a considerable level. That's when I came across the opportunity to apply for a career in the Indian Navy, and there were no second thoughts, " he recalls. Despite it being his maiden attempt at this exam, it was his one and only shot at joining the Navy, owing to age criteria. Earlier, with hardly any preparation and guidance, he had also attempted similar exams such as the Air Force Common Admission Test and the Central Armed Police Forces Exam. However, both those attempts were unsuccessful. "Amid my hectic work schedule, I had only two weeks to prepare for the exam. I had also sought 10 days of leave from work on an emergency basis in order to attend the interview. Besides the books that I managed to purchase, I also referred to certain websites and apps to gain further knowledge. Much of my preparation happened during my train journey from Chennai to Visakhapatnam (where the test happened), "he says regarding his preparation. Up against candidates from well-to-do backgrounds and those with degrees from elite institutions, Shyam Sundar was the lone candidate to make it among the group that was interviewed in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Looking back, Shyam says he's glad to have focused on developing his personality and officer-like qualities, besides working hard on his communication skills and knowledge of current affairs. Having received the call letter to join the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala, the family is marshalling their resources to help their son achieve his dream of serving the country. Amid the pandemic, having lost his job as a security guard, Shyam's father is now looking for work, while his mother continues to take care of her tailoring shop. In his final year of college, his younger sibling is looking forward to finding a job and taking over the family responsibilities. His mother, Anuradha, is happy that her son has gotten this far in life and is going to serve the country, but she also admits that it’s difficult for her as a mother to stay away from him. "He's been with us throughout his schooling and college, so I find it a little hard to accept. However, all our relatives and friends encouraged me and made me understand the magnitude of his achievement. With our limited means, we couldn't do much for him. It was all his focus and effort that took him there, " she says. Amid his frantic search for a job and managing to pay off their home rent and cover family expenses, the news of their son having made it to the INA, has made Shyam's father a happy man. "Everyone is telling us that it is a God-given life and career, and they are wishing him well for his future. They say that he'll return from the academy as a completely transformed person. Meanwhile, I can find work and contribute to the family," Umapathy beams with pride. At the INA, Shyam will be undergoing a one-year course of ab-initio training that is aimed at developing the trainees morally, mentally, and physically. The Indian Navy's INA, known as the "Cradle for Leadership," instils in its cadets the high ideals of loyalty, valour, and patriotism. Completing the course at INA and a few years of training at specialised naval facilities prepares trainees to become future leaders in the Indian Navy. On completing the course at INA, Shyam will earn the rank of a Sub Lieutenant. Pictures: Inside look at Asia’s largest Naval Academy, the cradle of India’s future naval leadership Shyam was among the defence aspirants mentored by 'Dream of Defence," a tightly-knit group run by veteran defence officers, at no cost. Students from across Tamil Nadu are part of this messaging group, where veteran armed forces officers interact with, coach, and mentor defence aspirants, based on their individual goals of joining the tri-services. Occasionally, the mentors meet the students and offer personal mentorship, along with offering orientation sessions and specialised classes via online platforms.

Security guard father, tailor mother: Son clears top defence exam to join Indian Naval Academy

Indian Naval Ship Kesari arrived at the port of Moroni, Comoros on Friday to extend technical assistance to the Comorian Coast Guard.

The visit came in response to the request made by the Chief of Comorian Coast Guard Commander Moudjib Rahmane Adane to the Indian Navy during his visit to India in November last year to participate in the Goa Maritime Conclave.

The request was to provide technical assistance in repairing a grounded patrol vessel P002-M' kombozi.

A release by Indian mission to Antananarivo, which is also concurrently accredited to Comoros, said," India has always been a reliable responder to the requests made by Comoros", adding, "Visit of INS Kesari reflects India’s commitment to work together with Comoros, its maritime neighbour and partner in the Indian Ocean Region."

India remains committed to further strengthening its development partnership with Comoros that aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of SAGAR that stands for Security And Growth for All in the Indian Ocean Region, the release stated.

Interestingly, the ship docked on the day when Chinese foreign minister (FM) Wang Yi was in the country.

The Chinese FM is on a visit to Africa and had earlier visited Ethiopia and Kenya. The visit to Comoros comes even as Beijing has been trying to increase its presence and engagement in the Indian Ocean and the African continent.

Comoros is strategically located at the northern end of the Mozambique Channel in the Indian Ocean Region, between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique.

This is not the first time that INS Kesari docked in Comoros.

In June 2020, the Indian Naval Ship had supplied a consignment of COVID-19 related essential medicines from India. Arrived on board were a 14-member Indian Medical Assistance Team to work with the Comorian health authorities in dealing with the pandemic and dengue fever.

Other than INS Kesari, March 2021 saw Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa delivering 1000 metric tonnes of rice to the island country.

There has been a spurt in high-level engagements between the two countries recently.

India's vice president Venkaiah Naidu visited the country in 2019 during which 6 MoUs were signed, including in Cooperation in the Field of Defence.

Comoros foreign minister Dhoihir Dhoulkamal visited India in February 2021 to participate in the Aero India 2021 and IOR Defence minister conclave in Bengaluru. &nbsp;

Last year, India trained 12 diplomats from the country during the first Special Course for diplomats from the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) organised by Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS), Delhi.

Indian Naval Ship Kesari arrived at the port of Moroni, Comoros on Friday to extend technical assistance to the Comorian Coast Guard. The visit came in response to the request made by the Chief of Comorian Coast Guard Commander Moudjib Rahmane Adane to the Indian Navy during his visit to India in November last year to participate in the Goa Maritime Conclave.

Indian Naval Ship Kesari arrived at the port of Moroni, Comoros on Friday to extend technical assistance to the Comorian Coast Guard. The visit came in response to the request made by the Chief of Comorian Coast Guard Commander Moudjib Rahmane Adane to the Indian Navy during his visit to India in November last year to participate in the Goa Maritime Conclave. The request was to provide technical assistance in repairing a grounded patrol vessel P002-M' kombozi. A release by Indian mission to Antananarivo, which is also concurrently accredited to Comoros, said," India has always been a reliable responder to the requests made by Comoros", adding, "Visit of INS Kesari reflects India’s commitment to work together with Comoros, its maritime neighbour and partner in the Indian Ocean Region." India remains committed to further strengthening its development partnership with Comoros that aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of SAGAR that stands for Security And Growth for All in the Indian Ocean Region, the release stated. Interestingly, the ship docked on the day when Chinese foreign minister (FM) Wang Yi was in the country. The Chinese FM is on a visit to Africa and had earlier visited Ethiopia and Kenya. The visit to Comoros comes even as Beijing has been trying to increase its presence and engagement in the Indian Ocean and the African continent. Comoros is strategically located at the northern end of the Mozambique Channel in the Indian Ocean Region, between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique. This is not the first time that INS Kesari docked in Comoros. In June 2020, the Indian Naval Ship had supplied a consignment of COVID-19 related essential medicines from India. Arrived on board were a 14-member Indian Medical Assistance Team to work with the Comorian health authorities in dealing with the pandemic and dengue fever. Other than INS Kesari, March 2021 saw Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa delivering 1000 metric tonnes of rice to the island country. There has been a spurt in high-level engagements between the two countries recently. India's vice president Venkaiah Naidu visited the country in 2019 during which 6 MoUs were signed, including in Cooperation in the Field of Defence. Comoros foreign minister Dhoihir Dhoulkamal visited India in February 2021 to participate in the Aero India 2021 and IOR Defence minister conclave in Bengaluru. Last year, India trained 12 diplomats from the country during the first Special Course for diplomats from the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) organised by Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS), Delhi.

Indian Navy Ship lands in Comoros to provide technical assistance

#Dec4: India's #NavyDay Rajnath Singh: India will soon build ships for the world Naval Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar: National security is our top focus What are the biggest achievements of the Indian Navy? Watch Indian Navy: The Make-in-India Story

Indian Navy: The Make-in-India story | WION Wideangle

Dec 4: India's Navy Day Rajnath Singh: India will soon build ships for the world Naval Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar: National security is our top focus What are the biggest achievements of the Indian Navy? Watch Indian Navy: The Make-in-India Story

Indian Navy: The make-in-India story | Wion Wideangle

Newly-appointed Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar on Friday said that his forcing is closely monitoring the activities of China in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and added that it is ready to deal with any security threat.

Addressing a press conference on the eve of Navy Day, Kumar, said, “The Chinese navy has been present in Indian Ocean Region since 2008 and they have seven to eight warships here. There is constant surveillance by our aircraft and ships and their activities are kept under close watch,” he said.

Responding to questions on the threat from China in the maritime domain, Kumar said, “I want to assure you that the Indian Navy is a well-balanced force and is confident of defending India's maritime interests for sure.”

Referring to China's rapid expansion of its naval assets, the newly-appointed navy chief said, “We're aware of the development of the Chinese navy building 110 warships in last few years. Our plans will factor in all the activities and deployments in the IOR. I want to assure you that the Indian Navy is confident of defending India’s maritime interests.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-for-india-china-a-bigger-security-threat-than-pakistan-says-cds-bipin-rawat-390906">Exclusive: For India, China a bigger security threat than Pakistan, says CDS Bipin Rawat</a>

“The Chinese activities and deployments are kept under close watch. We have our plans,” he added.

Asked about the Navy's earlier plan of becoming a 170-ship force, he said a new scientific process to assess the requirement under a 10-year Integrated Capability Development Plan (ICDP) is underway following which decisions will be taken.

"It may be 230 (ships), it may be 300, the process is on. It is a scientific process. I cannot give you a number at this point. We will arrive at a decision following the completion of the process," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-new-delhi-and-beijing-agree-to-hold-another-meeting-to-resolve-border-dispute-422614">India-China standoff: New Delhi and Beijing agree to hold another meeting to resolve border dispute</a>

The Navy had set a target to become a 170-ship force by 2027. At present, the Navy has around 130 ships.

Speaking about the Indo-Pacific, Kumar said it has got great importance for India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Newly-appointed Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar on Friday said that his forcing is closely monitoring the activities of China in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and added that it is ready to deal with any security threat.

Newly-appointed Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar on Friday said that his forcing is closely monitoring the activities of China in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and added that it is ready to deal with any security threat. Addressing a press conference on the eve of Navy Day, Kumar, said, “The Chinese navy has been present in Indian Ocean Region since 2008 and they have seven to eight warships here. There is constant surveillance by our aircraft and ships and their activities are kept under close watch,” he said. Responding to questions on the threat from China in the maritime domain, Kumar said, “I want to assure you that the Indian Navy is a well-balanced force and is confident of defending India's maritime interests for sure.” Referring to China's rapid expansion of its naval assets, the newly-appointed navy chief said, “We're aware of the development of the Chinese navy building 110 warships in last few years. Our plans will factor in all the activities and deployments in the IOR. I want to assure you that the Indian Navy is confident of defending India’s maritime interests.” Also read | Exclusive: For India, China a bigger security threat than Pakistan, says CDS Bipin Rawat “The Chinese activities and deployments are kept under close watch. We have our plans,” he added. Asked about the Navy's earlier plan of becoming a 170-ship force, he said a new scientific process to assess the requirement under a 10-year Integrated Capability Development Plan (ICDP) is underway following which decisions will be taken. "It may be 230 (ships), it may be 300, the process is on. It is a scientific process. I cannot give you a number at this point. We will arrive at a decision following the completion of the process," he said. Also read | India-China standoff: New Delhi and Beijing agree to hold another meeting to resolve border dispute The Navy had set a target to become a 170-ship force by 2027. At present, the Navy has around 130 ships. Speaking about the Indo-Pacific, Kumar said it has got great importance for India. (With inputs from agencies)

India keeping close eye on Chinese activities in Indian Ocean, says newly appointed Navy Chief

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless.

Despite all these challenges, these young men and women assimilate, learn, grow and develop into fine Naval Officers at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, ready to go back and serve their respective Navy.&nbsp;

WION spoke to foreign personnel who completed their training at the Indian Naval Academy and formally passed out of the premier Naval training institution.

The INA trains young men and women, to be commissioned as officers of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. INA is also the only Defence institution in India to handle ab-initio training for young men and women under both Short Service Commission, Permanent Commission.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-maldives-hits-out-at-malicious-india-out-campaign-says-propaganda-by-corrupt-people-432448" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people'</a>

“Apart from training hard with the Indian cadets, we had the opportunity of blending with Indian Culture. We celebrated and enjoyed festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Onam… the brotherhood here and the love showered upon me by the fellow cadets and their families never let me feel like the foreigner in the last four years” Sub Lieutenant Isuru Senevirathne, from Sri Lanka told WION. Notably, he also spoke the same in fluent Hindi, which he had picked up and mastered during his time at the academy.&nbsp;

Walking into the INA, the trainees come from various cultural, linguistic, socio-economic backgrounds, but, once in the academy, they only have a single identity - as Naval officers in the making. In their crew cuts, glistening white uniforms and chiselled, lean-muscular physiques, it's hard to even identify one cadet from another.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-subscribe-elon-musk-backed-starlink-services-till-it-gets-licence-indian-government-tells-public-432309">Also read |&nbsp;Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public</a>

For Abdullazizi Omar Haji, from Tanzania, his first challenge was to improve his English language while at the Academy, in order to better understand the course and communicate with his course mates and instructors.&nbsp;

“I joined here after completing high school. My parents are teachers back home and I’m the youngest of four brothers.. Here, I picked up English slowly, with the help of my instructors, coursemates, and seniors, who helped me a lot. I’m also able to understand Hindi now” Omar Haji told WION.&nbsp;

Omar and Isuru were among the 231 trainees who had passed out as Naval Officers from the Indian Naval Academy, over the weekend. These cadets(commissioned as Naval Officer) had pursued different technical courses at the INA, spanning between six months, one year and four years. While the Indian Officers will go on to serve the Indian Navy, the foreign personnel will return to their respective countries.&nbsp;

As a part of Military diplomacy and in order to build stronger bridges of friendship, India’s Defence Institutions train military personnel from friendly foreign countries. This helps develop trust, bonding and camaraderie, and interoperability, between the forces. In recent decades, the Indian Navy alone has trained over 15,000 foreign personnel from over 46 countries.&nbsp;

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless.

How hard is it for a 17-year old to leave home, family, and travel abroad to train at a Military Academy? New culture, new people, new language, new places, and a gruelling and transformative four-year-long training period… The list is endless. Despite all these challenges, these young men and women assimilate, learn, grow and develop into fine Naval Officers at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, ready to go back and serve their respective Navy. WION spoke to foreign personnel who completed their training at the Indian Naval Academy and formally passed out of the premier Naval training institution. The INA trains young men and women, to be commissioned as officers of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. INA is also the only Defence institution in India to handle ab-initio training for young men and women under both Short Service Commission, Permanent Commission. Also read | Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people' “Apart from training hard with the Indian cadets, we had the opportunity of blending with Indian Culture. We celebrated and enjoyed festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Onam… the brotherhood here and the love showered upon me by the fellow cadets and their families never let me feel like the foreigner in the last four years” Sub Lieutenant Isuru Senevirathne, from Sri Lanka told WION. Notably, he also spoke the same in fluent Hindi, which he had picked up and mastered during his time at the academy. Walking into the INA, the trainees come from various cultural, linguistic, socio-economic backgrounds, but, once in the academy, they only have a single identity - as Naval officers in the making. In their crew cuts, glistening white uniforms and chiselled, lean-muscular physiques, it's hard to even identify one cadet from another. Also read | Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public For Abdullazizi Omar Haji, from Tanzania, his first challenge was to improve his English language while at the Academy, in order to better understand the course and communicate with his course mates and instructors. “I joined here after completing high school. My parents are teachers back home and I’m the youngest of four brothers.. Here, I picked up English slowly, with the help of my instructors, coursemates, and seniors, who helped me a lot. I’m also able to understand Hindi now” Omar Haji told WION. Omar and Isuru were among the 231 trainees who had passed out as Naval Officers from the Indian Naval Academy, over the weekend. These cadets(commissioned as Naval Officer) had pursued different technical courses at the INA, spanning between six months, one year and four years. While the Indian Officers will go on to serve the Indian Navy, the foreign personnel will return to their respective countries. As a part of Military diplomacy and in order to build stronger bridges of friendship, India’s Defence Institutions train military personnel from friendly foreign countries. This helps develop trust, bonding and camaraderie, and interoperability, between the forces. In recent decades, the Indian Navy alone has trained over 15,000 foreign personnel from over 46 countries.

'Trained hard, blended with Indian culture, learnt Hindi,' foreign trainees tell WION at Indian Naval Academy

The Indian Navy commissioned 231 cadets at the passing out parade which was held at the Indian naval academy in India's southern state of Kerala. WION's correspondent Sidharth MP brings you this report from Asia's largest naval academy.

231 cadets commissioned into the Indian Naval Academy

India's naval leadership is the largest in Asia and also itis India's pride and beyond. WION's correspondent Sidharth MP reports from the Indian naval academy which not only trains the Indian cadets but also foreign ones.

Indian Naval Academy: Teenagers sculpted into future leaders of the Indian Navy

In pics: INS Vela, India's fourth Scorpene-class stealth submarine commissioned

INS Visakhapatnam: India's new stealth guided missile destroyer to be commissioned

Kulbhushan Jadhav, the Indian national on death row in Pakistan, got the right to appeal the sentence as Pakistani parliament passed a bill enabling him to do so as ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).&nbsp;

Pakistan claims that Kulbhushan Jadhav is a spy, while India maintains that he was abducted from Iran while conducting his own business.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-big-win-for-india-kulbhushan-jadhav-granted-right-to-appeal-430103/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Jadhav was sentenced to death by a military court in Pakistan 2017. India had then approached the ICJ and was able to obtain a stay on the Pakistani court order.

In 2020, Imran Khan government had presented an ordinance in Pakistan's National Assembly in accordance with the International Court of Justice verdict. Pakistan's Opposition parties had opposed this move.

ICJ, based at The Hague, had asked Pakistan in 2019 to ensure "effective review and reconsideration" of the death sentence handed to Jadhav and also given instruction to provide him consular access.

"Pakistan was under an obligation to provide, by means of its own choosing, effective review and reconsideration of the conviction and sentence of Mr. Jadhav, so as to ensure that full weight was given to the effect of the violation of the rights set forth in Article 36 of the Vienna Convention," ICJ had observed.

Kulbhushan Jadhav, the Indian national on death row in Pakistan, got the right to appeal the sentence as Pakistani parliament passed a bill enabling him to do so as ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Kulbhushan Jadhav, the Indian national on death row in Pakistan, got the right to appeal the sentence as Pakistani parliament passed a bill enabling him to do so as ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Pakistan claims that Kulbhushan Jadhav is a spy, while India maintains that he was abducted from Iran while conducting his own business. × Jadhav was sentenced to death by a military court in Pakistan 2017. India had then approached the ICJ and was able to obtain a stay on the Pakistani court order. In 2020, Imran Khan government had presented an ordinance in Pakistan's National Assembly in accordance with the International Court of Justice verdict. Pakistan's Opposition parties had opposed this move. ICJ, based at The Hague, had asked Pakistan in 2019 to ensure "effective review and reconsideration" of the death sentence handed to Jadhav and also given instruction to provide him consular access. "Pakistan was under an obligation to provide, by means of its own choosing, effective review and reconsideration of the conviction and sentence of Mr. Jadhav, so as to ensure that full weight was given to the effect of the violation of the rights set forth in Article 36 of the Vienna Convention," ICJ had observed.

Pak parliament passes bill enabling Kulbhushan Jadhav's right to appeal as ordered by ICJ

To boost India’s capacity and firepower to counter threats Visakhapatnam, an indigenous stealth-guided missile destroyer, will be commissioned on November 21.

INS Visakhapatnam: Know all about India's new guided-missile destroyer

The Indian and Thai navies on Friday began a three-day coordinated patrol in the Andaman Sea amid growing concern over China's increasing maritime forays into the Indian Ocean region.

The Indian Navy's indigenously built missile corvette Karmuk and Thailand's Khamrosin class anti-submarine patrol vessel Tayanchon along with maritime patrol aircraft from both navies are participating in the coordinated patrol (CORPAT), officials said.

The two navies have been bi-annually undertaking CORPAT along their international maritime boundary line (IMBL) since 2005 with an aim to keep the vital part of the Indian Ocean safe and secure for global trade, Indian Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-wades-into-char-dham-road-project-debate-says-army-cant-fight-war-on-inhospitable-terrains-428723" hreflang="en">Need wider roads for Army to move missiles up to Indo-China border: Govt to SC</a>

"The CORPAT builds up understanding and interoperability between navies and facilitates institution of measures to prevent and suppress unlawful activities like illegal unreported unregulated (IUU) fishing, drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, armed robbery, and piracy," he said.

The official said it further helps enhance the operational synergy by exchange of information for the prevention of smuggling, illegal immigration, and for conduct of search and rescue (SAR) operations at sea.

"The 32nd Indo-Thai CORPAT will contribute towards Indian Navy's efforts to consolidate inter-operability and forge strong bonds of friendship between India and Thailand," Commander Madhwal said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shows-their-attitude-india-slams-pak-for-skipping-nsa-meet-on-afghanistan-issue-428500" hreflang="en">‘Shows their attitude’: India slams Pak for skipping NSA meet on Afghanistan</a>

The Indian Navy has been gradually expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean region in the last few years.

Notwithstanding the coronavirus pandemic, the Indian Navy participated in maritime exercises in the last few months with a number of countries.

Last month, India held the Malabar exercise that was also participated by the navies of the US, Japan, and Australia.

India invited Australia for the exercise last year as well as this year effectively making it a drill by all the Quad member nations.

The Quad, comprising India, the US, Australia, and Japan, is aimed at ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, a region that witnessed increasing Chinese military assertiveness in recent years.

China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The Indian and Thai navies on Friday began a three-day coordinated patrol in the Andaman Sea amid growing concern over China's increasing maritime forays into the Indian Ocean region.

The Indian and Thai navies on Friday began a three-day coordinated patrol in the Andaman Sea amid growing concern over China's increasing maritime forays into the Indian Ocean region. The Indian Navy's indigenously built missile corvette Karmuk and Thailand's Khamrosin class anti-submarine patrol vessel Tayanchon along with maritime patrol aircraft from both navies are participating in the coordinated patrol (CORPAT), officials said. The two navies have been bi-annually undertaking CORPAT along their international maritime boundary line (IMBL) since 2005 with an aim to keep the vital part of the Indian Ocean safe and secure for global trade, Indian Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said. Also read | Need wider roads for Army to move missiles up to Indo-China border: Govt to SC "The CORPAT builds up understanding and interoperability between navies and facilitates institution of measures to prevent and suppress unlawful activities like illegal unreported unregulated (IUU) fishing, drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, armed robbery, and piracy," he said. The official said it further helps enhance the operational synergy by exchange of information for the prevention of smuggling, illegal immigration, and for conduct of search and rescue (SAR) operations at sea. "The 32nd Indo-Thai CORPAT will contribute towards Indian Navy's efforts to consolidate inter-operability and forge strong bonds of friendship between India and Thailand," Commander Madhwal said. Also read | ‘Shows their attitude’: India slams Pak for skipping NSA meet on Afghanistan The Indian Navy has been gradually expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean region in the last few years. Notwithstanding the coronavirus pandemic, the Indian Navy participated in maritime exercises in the last few months with a number of countries. Last month, India held the Malabar exercise that was also participated by the navies of the US, Japan, and Australia. India invited Australia for the exercise last year as well as this year effectively making it a drill by all the Quad member nations. The Quad, comprising India, the US, Australia, and Japan, is aimed at ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, a region that witnessed increasing Chinese military assertiveness in recent years. China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

India and Thai navies begin three-day coordinated patrol in Andaman Sea

Exclusive | An on-board look at the 'reborn' INS Vikrant, India’s first-ever indigenous aircraft carrier

Indian navy has rejected the claim of Pakistan's military that its navy blocked an Indian submarine from entering into the country's waters. Indian side has termed the video as 'fake'. Pakistan army’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) had claimed that an Indian submarine was detected by a Pakistan Navy patrol aircraft on October 16.

Indian submarine detected: India rejects Pakistan's claim, calls it 'fake'

The second phase of Malabar exercise kicked off in the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday. The Indian Navy participated along with the U.S. Navy, Japanese maritime self defence force and the royal Australian navy. The focus was on free, open and inclusive indo-pacific. WION correspondent Molly Gambhir spoke with India's chief of the naval staff admiral Karambir Singh. Listen to their conversation.

Malabar Exercise 2021: WION's Molly Gambhir speaks to Indian Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh

The Indian Navy is all set to participate in the second phase of the multilateral maritime exercise Malabar which is scheduled to take place from October 12 to 15 this will be the very first military engagement among quad partner countries since Australia, UK and the US unveiled the Aukus initiative.

Indian Navy all set to participate in second phase of multilateral maritime exercise

indian-navy

Indian Navy, News on Indian Navy, stories on Indian Navy, articles on Indian Navy, Indian Navy stories at Wion, Indian Navy news, Indian Navy latest news

indian navy