India showcased unmatched strategic capability in just 48 hours, first launching its heaviest rocket on Wednesday and then test-firing the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile from INS Arighaat on Thursday. The K-4's full 3,500 KM range strengthens India's nuclear triad and confirms credible second-strike capability from under the sea

India Tests Nuclear-capable K-4 Missile From INS Arighaat, Adversaries on Notice

Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri made a significant port call at Busan Harbour, South Korea, as part of India's ongoing efforts to enhance maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The visit underscores the growing naval and diplomatic ties between India and South Korea.

INS Sahyadri Makes Port Call at Busan Harbour | Strengthening India-South Korea Naval Ties | WION

INS Tushil, latest multi role stealth guided missile frigate, commissioned into Indian Navy in the presence of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in Russia. Watch to know more!

Stealth Frigate INS Tushil Commissioned Into Indian Navy In Russia | World DNA | WION

The combat capability of the Indian Navy is to be upgraded as the Indian Navy is all set to commission its latest multi-role stealth guided missile frigate. Watch to know more!

INS Tushil: Rajnath Singh To Unveil Multi-Role Navy Warship Set In Russia | WION Fineprint

The video of an Indian Naval band performing at Central London, UK, is doing rounds on the internet. The Navy contingent is part of the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tabar, a stealth frigate, which was on a four-day official visit to the UK from Aug 7-11.&nbsp;

During a special performance, the Special Navy Band of INS Tabar played tunes of famous Bollywood songs. The crowd, which mainly consisted of Indians and British Indians, was seen cheering for the band and singing along to the tunes.

Watch the videos here.

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The Indian naval band of stealth frigate INS Tabar 🇮🇳performing at central London 🇬🇧 <a href="https://t.co/NfcH4ckMKE">pic.twitter.com/NfcH4ckMKE</a>
— HQ (@HQ01910) <a href="https://twitter.com/HQ01910/status/1822670046587683139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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London was powerfully echoing with 
भारत माता की जय &amp; वन्दे मातरम्🇮🇳🚩<a href="https://twitter.com/HCI_London?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HCI_London</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://t.co/brONgwth8a">https://t.co/brONgwth8a</a> <a href="https://t.co/AbcCKHUwIl">pic.twitter.com/AbcCKHUwIl</a>
— Satyam Surana (@SatyamSurana) <a href="https://twitter.com/SatyamSurana/status/1822635820198621435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In the videos, the crowd can be seen chanting “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat ki Jai” at Cathedral Square, London.&nbsp;

In another video, an Indian Navy personnel showcased his hidden talent as he wooed&nbsp;the crowd with his amazing dance steps.&nbsp;

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Rockstars of the Indian Navy! 
 
Indian Navy Rocks the streets of London🇮🇳🇬🇧🫶🏻 
 
The Special Navy Band of INS Tabar gave a spectacular performance yesterday at Cathedral Sq. London! 
 
Let’s spread and make this hidden talent of our brave Indian Navy Warriors, known to the world!!… <a href="https://t.co/9prbbLrUM6">pic.twitter.com/9prbbLrUM6</a>
— Satyam Surana (@SatyamSurana) <a href="https://twitter.com/SatyamSurana/status/1822635077940998315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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INS Tabar arrived at London Harbour on Aug 7 during its ongoing Operational Deployment to European Nations. Upon its arrival, the frontline warship was welcomed by the Indian diaspora amid cheer and celebrations at the iconic Tower Bridge.

INS Tabar was in Hamburg, Germany from July 17-20. “The conduct of MPX between Indian Navy and German Navy off Kiel Canal signifies Indian Navy’s outreach and sustenance efforts also marking a significant milestone in the maritime cooperation between the two countries,” the release stated.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a>'s stealth frigate <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INSTabar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INSTabar</a>, during her ongoing Operational Deployment to European Nations arrived at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/London?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#London</a>, UK to a huge welcome by Indian Diaspora present at the iconic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TowerBridge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TowerBridge</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/HCI_London?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HCI_London</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IN_WesternFleet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IN_WesternFleet</a><a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpokespersonMoD</a> 
 
Details⬇️<a href="https://t.co/6rKtlZTwun">https://t.co/6rKtlZTwun</a> <a href="https://t.co/5uBqSlcQE4">pic.twitter.com/5uBqSlcQE4</a>
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1821506901126861162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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INS Tabar was commissioned on 19 April 2004, in Kaliningrad, Russia and it arrived at its home port Mumbai on 31 July 2004. Alongside its sister ships, INS Talwar (meaning 'sword') and INS Trishul (meaning 'trident'), INS Tabar is part of the Indian Navy's Western Naval Command headquartered in Mumbai.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/statue-depicting-pakistan-armys-1971-surrender-in-front-of-india-vandalised-in-bangladesh-749322">Statue depicting Pakistan Army's 1971 surrender in front of India vandalised in Bangladesh</a>

During the four-day visit, a series of professional interactions between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy took place at the London port.&nbsp;

The crew of INS Tabar also offer community service to the retired pensioners of the Royal Army at Old Age Home, highlighting the ideology of Indian PM Narendra Modi of Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam. These engagements seek to enhance bilateral relations, particularly in the maritime domain between both countries and also offer an opportunity to showcase Indian culture.

The British and Indian Navies also share a long-standing partnership for a bilateral naval exercise called Konkan, which has been held annually for the past several years.

(With inputs from agencies)

The video of an Indian Naval band performing at Central London, UK, is doing rounds on the internet. The Navy contingent is part of the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tabar, a stealth frigate, which was on a four-day official visit to the UK from Aug 7-11.

The video of an Indian Naval band performing at Central London, UK, is doing rounds on the internet. The Navy contingent is part of the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tabar, a stealth frigate, which was on a four-day official visit to the UK from Aug 7-11. During a special performance, the Special Navy Band of INS Tabar played tunes of famous Bollywood songs. The crowd, which mainly consisted of Indians and British Indians, was seen cheering for the band and singing along to the tunes. Watch the videos here. The Indian naval band of stealth frigate INS Tabar 🇮🇳performing at central London 🇬🇧 pic.twitter.com/NfcH4ckMKE — HQ (@HQ01910) August 11, 2024 × London was powerfully echoing with भारत माता की जय & वन्दे मातरम्🇮🇳🚩@HCI_London @DrSJaishankar https://t.co/brONgwth8a pic.twitter.com/AbcCKHUwIl — Satyam Surana (@SatyamSurana) August 11, 2024 × In the videos, the crowd can be seen chanting “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat ki Jai” at Cathedral Square, London. In another video, an Indian Navy personnel showcased his hidden talent as he wooed the crowd with his amazing dance steps. Rockstars of the Indian Navy! Indian Navy Rocks the streets of London🇮🇳🇬🇧🫶🏻 The Special Navy Band of INS Tabar gave a spectacular performance yesterday at Cathedral Sq. London! Let’s spread and make this hidden talent of our brave Indian Navy Warriors, known to the world!!… pic.twitter.com/9prbbLrUM6 — Satyam Surana (@SatyamSurana) August 11, 2024 × INS Tabar arrived at London Harbour on Aug 7 during its ongoing Operational Deployment to European Nations. Upon its arrival, the frontline warship was welcomed by the Indian diaspora amid cheer and celebrations at the iconic Tower Bridge. INS Tabar was in Hamburg, Germany from July 17-20. “The conduct of MPX between Indian Navy and German Navy off Kiel Canal signifies Indian Navy’s outreach and sustenance efforts also marking a significant milestone in the maritime cooperation between the two countries,” the release stated. #IndianNavy's stealth frigate #INSTabar, during her ongoing Operational Deployment to European Nations arrived at #London, UK to a huge welcome by Indian Diaspora present at the iconic #TowerBridge.@HCI_London @IN_WesternFleet@SpokespersonMoD Details⬇️https://t.co/6rKtlZTwun pic.twitter.com/5uBqSlcQE4 — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) August 8, 2024 × INS Tabar was commissioned on 19 April 2004, in Kaliningrad, Russia and it arrived at its home port Mumbai on 31 July 2004. Alongside its sister ships, INS Talwar (meaning 'sword') and INS Trishul (meaning 'trident'), INS Tabar is part of the Indian Navy's Western Naval Command headquartered in Mumbai. Also Read | Statue depicting Pakistan Army's 1971 surrender in front of India vandalised in Bangladesh During the four-day visit, a series of professional interactions between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy took place at the London port. The crew of INS Tabar also offer community service to the retired pensioners of the Royal Army at Old Age Home, highlighting the ideology of Indian PM Narendra Modi of Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam. These engagements seek to enhance bilateral relations, particularly in the maritime domain between both countries and also offer an opportunity to showcase Indian culture. The British and Indian Navies also share a long-standing partnership for a bilateral naval exercise called Konkan, which has been held annually for the past several years. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Indian Navy rocks UK streets! Naval band of INS Tabar performs in London

A fire broke out onboard the INS Brahmaputra, an Indian Navy warship, while it was undergoing maintenance at the naval dockyard in Mumbai. Watch in for more details!

India: INS Brahmaputra damaged in fire at Mumbai dockyard, search for one missing sailor underway

The Indian Navy on Wednesday commissioned its new base "INS Jatayu" at Minicoy in Lakshadweep islands, enhancing its operational capability and reach in the Indian Ocean region.

INS Jatayu: Indian Navy commissions new naval base at Lakshadweep

India: Indian Navy commissions ‘INS Jatayu’ base in Lakshadweep

INS Karanj, an Indian Navy submarine, arrived in the port of Colombo on Thursday, ahead of Sri Lanka’s 76th Independence Day celebrations on Sunday.

Indian warship makes port call in Colombo

The Indian Navy on Thursday launched its most advanced and state-of-the-art anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft, named Amini.

A ceremonial 'ship launch', where a newly-built ship is transferred from land to the water, was performed on Thursday.

The vessel is named after a strategically important island in the Lakshadweep archipelago on India's western coast, almost 400 km off Kochi, Kerala.

This is the fourth in the series of eight anti-submarine warfare shallow watercrafts being built in India by domestic shipyards for the Indian Navy.

Four of these ships, each with more than 80 per cent indigenous content, have been launched this year.

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Launch of 'Amini' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> Anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft, today at <a href="https://twitter.com/larsentoubro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@larsentoubro</a> Kattupalli <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> 
 
Spec- 77m long, 900tons displacement, 46kmph speed, 3333km range, 80% indigenous 
 
4 ships of this class launched this year<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Defence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Defence</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a>… <a href="https://t.co/vCZdAbH8SH">pic.twitter.com/vCZdAbH8SH</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1725154948470473089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The ceremony, which was presided over by Chief of Materiel of the&nbsp;Indian Navy, Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, and other top officials, took place at the Larsen and Toubro Shipyard in Chennai, southern India.

In keeping with maritime tradition of the Indian Navy where the spouse of the senior officer carries out the launching ceremony and a puja (prayer) is performed, Manju Naithani, wife of admiral Sandeep, launched the ship to the invocation from the Atharva Veda, a Hindu holy scripture.&nbsp;

The 77-meter-long anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft has a displacement of 900 tonnes, a maximum speed of 25knots (46.3kmph) and an endurance of approximately 1800Nautical miles (3333kms).

These vessels are designed to undertake anti-submarine operations in coastal waters and Low-Intensity Maritime Operations and Mine-laying operations.&nbsp;

The contract for building eight anti-submarine warfare ships was signed between India's Defence Ministry and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, in April 2019.

As per the build strategy, four ships are being built at GRSE, Kolkata, and the remaining four are subcontracted to L&amp;T Shipbuilding, Kattupalli, for hull and part outfitting.

These contracts being executed within the country, help generate employment, offer a boost to Indian industry and help enhance related infrastructure.&nbsp;

At the time of launching, a ship is not in a state of operational readiness. In fact, of the Float-Move-Fight criteria, the ship can only perform its float role&nbsp;at the time of launch.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-student-speaks-to-wion-reveals-shocking-state-of-canadas-education-system-housing-and-health-infra-659409">Indian student speaks to WION, reveals shocking state of Canada's education system, housing and health infra</a>

After launch, the ship would have to be integrated with various equipment, systems, and sub-systems, they would have to be tested rigorously and proven. After that, the ship's weapon systems and armaments are to be integrated and tested.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/osama-bin-ladens-21-yr-old-letter-goes-viral-after-tiktok-influencers-promote-it-netizens-say-eyes-opened-659443">Osama bin Laden’s 21-yr-old letter goes viral after TikTok influencers promote it, netizens say 'eyes opened'</a>

During these phases, when the ship is nearing the final stages of readiness, it is commissioned into the Indian Navy and it earns the prefix INS - Indian Navy Ship.

Finally, once this entire process is complete, it can undertake its wide gamut of operations and fulfil the Float-Move-Fight objectives.

The Indian Navy on Thursday launched its most advanced and state-of-the-art anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft, named Amini. A ceremonial 'ship launch', where a newly-built ship is transferred from land to the water, was performed on Thursday.

The Indian Navy on Thursday launched its most advanced and state-of-the-art anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft, named Amini. A ceremonial 'ship launch', where a newly-built ship is transferred from land to the water, was performed on Thursday. The vessel is named after a strategically important island in the Lakshadweep archipelago on India's western coast, almost 400 km off Kochi, Kerala. This is the fourth in the series of eight anti-submarine warfare shallow watercrafts being built in India by domestic shipyards for the Indian Navy. Four of these ships, each with more than 80 per cent indigenous content, have been launched this year. Launch of 'Amini' #IndianNavy Anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft, today at @larsentoubro Kattupalli #chennai #TamilNadu Spec- 77m long, 900tons displacement, 46kmph speed, 3333km range, 80% indigenous 4 ships of this class launched this year#Defence #india… pic.twitter.com/vCZdAbH8SH — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) November 16, 2023 × The ceremony, which was presided over by Chief of Materiel of the Indian Navy, Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, and other top officials, took place at the Larsen and Toubro Shipyard in Chennai, southern India. In keeping with maritime tradition of the Indian Navy where the spouse of the senior officer carries out the launching ceremony and a puja (prayer) is performed, Manju Naithani, wife of admiral Sandeep, launched the ship to the invocation from the Atharva Veda, a Hindu holy scripture. The 77-meter-long anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft has a displacement of 900 tonnes, a maximum speed of 25knots (46.3kmph) and an endurance of approximately 1800Nautical miles (3333kms). These vessels are designed to undertake anti-submarine operations in coastal waters and Low-Intensity Maritime Operations and Mine-laying operations. The contract for building eight anti-submarine warfare ships was signed between India's Defence Ministry and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, in April 2019. As per the build strategy, four ships are being built at GRSE, Kolkata, and the remaining four are subcontracted to L&T Shipbuilding, Kattupalli, for hull and part outfitting. These contracts being executed within the country, help generate employment, offer a boost to Indian industry and help enhance related infrastructure. At the time of launching, a ship is not in a state of operational readiness. In fact, of the Float-Move-Fight criteria, the ship can only perform its float role at the time of launch. Also read | Indian student speaks to WION, reveals shocking state of Canada's education system, housing and health infra After launch, the ship would have to be integrated with various equipment, systems, and sub-systems, they would have to be tested rigorously and proven. After that, the ship's weapon systems and armaments are to be integrated and tested. Also read | Osama bin Laden’s 21-yr-old letter goes viral after TikTok influencers promote it, netizens say 'eyes opened' During these phases, when the ship is nearing the final stages of readiness, it is commissioned into the Indian Navy and it earns the prefix INS - Indian Navy Ship. Finally, once this entire process is complete, it can undertake its wide gamut of operations and fulfil the Float-Move-Fight objectives.

Indian Navy launches anti-submarine warfare craft 'Amini'; 4 of eight India-made crafts launched in 2023

An Indian Navy MiG-29K fighter jet on Wednesday landed on the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant for the first time at night, an important step towards the warship becoming fully operational along with its air wing by the year-end, navy officials said on Thursday.

MiG-29K fighter jet makes maiden night landing on INS Vikrant

Located near Dabolim, INS Hansa is India's biggest naval airbase which was set up with Sea Hawk, Alize, and Vampire aircraft at Coimbatore in 1958. Later, it was commissioned as INS Hansa on September 5, 1961.

Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft

The sixth submarine of Project 75, Yard 11880, Indian Navy’s Kalvari class commenced her sea trials on Thursday, May 18. The submarine was launched in April 2022 from the Kanhoji Angre Wet Basin of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). Vaghsheer is scheduled for Delivery to the Indian Navy in early 2024 after the completion of these trials.

INS Vaghsheer: Sixth Scorpene Submarine of Project-75 commences first sea sorties | Details

From providing logistics support to warfighting Indian troops on foreign soil to offering succor in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, to repatriating Indian nationals during the pandemic, INS Magar has done it all in 36 years of service and will be resting her oars on Saturday, 6th May 2023.

The decommissioning ceremony will be held at the Naval Base in Kochi and Vice Admiral MA Hampiholi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command will preside over the event.

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-dramatic-visuals-as-truck-driver-rescued-in-kenya-after-sudden-floods-589502">Dramatic visuals as truck driver rescued in Kenya after sudden floods</a>

An Amphibious Assault ship of the Indian Navy, INS Magar's primary role has been that of an expeditionary warfare unit, which can carry eleven battle tanks, thirteen BMP infantry fighting vehicles, ten trucks, eight heavy motor vehicles, and more than 200 troops in various configurations.

The ship also carries an integral Seaking Helicopter for airborne operations and four Landing Craft Assault(LCA) for launching amphibious assaults.

Built by GRSE Kolkata, INS Magar was commissioned on 18th July 1987 in the eastern Indian city. The vessel was a major milestone for the Indian shipbuilding industry as it was the first indigenously built ship with more than 5000 gross register tonnage(referring to the ship's internal volume) and the first of the Landing Ship Tank (Large) class.

<h2>'Magar - A cross between a crocodile and fish'</h2>

The Ships crest depicts the Hindu mythological character Makara, riding the waves. The Makara is generally depicted as a half crocodile in the fore part with a tail of a fish. Makara is considered as the ‘Vahana’ (Vehicle) of Goddess Ganga and the sea god Varuna.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/onus-on-india-to-restart-peace-talks-pak-fm-bilawal-bhutto-589483">Onus on India to restart peace talks: Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari</a>

The crest symbolizes the amphibious capability of INS Magar as well as emphasizing its size, adaptability, agility and ferociousness.

<h2>Major Operations undertaken by INS Magar</h2>

Operation Pawan was undertaken in 1987 by Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) to take control of the Jaffna Peninsula (Sri Lanka) from the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE). The ship played a key role in the transfer of army troops and tanks to the Sri Lankan peninsula to provide assistance to the fighting effort of the troops on the ground.

Watch | Srinagar gears up to host g20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2

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In the aftermath of the 26th December 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, the ship played a pivotal role in providing relief and evacuation of more than 1300 people from the affected area of Andaman Nicobar Islands, off India's east coast.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of 'Operation Samudra Setu' the ship was tasked with evacuating Indian Nationals and providing medical relief to friendly foreign countries. The ship was deployed to Male, Maldives, and safely evacuated 202 Indians including 24 women, two expectant mothers, and two children.

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From providing logistics support to warfighting Indian troops on foreign soil to offering succor in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, to repatriating Indian nationals during the pandemic, INS Magar has done it all in 36 years of service and will be resting her oars on Saturday, 6th May 2023.

From providing logistics support to warfighting Indian troops on foreign soil to offering succor in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, to repatriating Indian nationals during the pandemic, INS Magar has done it all in 36 years of service and will be resting her oars on Saturday, 6th May 2023. The decommissioning ceremony will be held at the Naval Base in Kochi and Vice Admiral MA Hampiholi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command will preside over the event. WATCH | Dramatic visuals as truck driver rescued in Kenya after sudden floods An Amphibious Assault ship of the Indian Navy, INS Magar's primary role has been that of an expeditionary warfare unit, which can carry eleven battle tanks, thirteen BMP infantry fighting vehicles, ten trucks, eight heavy motor vehicles, and more than 200 troops in various configurations. The ship also carries an integral Seaking Helicopter for airborne operations and four Landing Craft Assault(LCA) for launching amphibious assaults. Built by GRSE Kolkata, INS Magar was commissioned on 18th July 1987 in the eastern Indian city. The vessel was a major milestone for the Indian shipbuilding industry as it was the first indigenously built ship with more than 5000 gross register tonnage(referring to the ship's internal volume) and the first of the Landing Ship Tank (Large) class. 'Magar - A cross between a crocodile and fish' The Ships crest depicts the Hindu mythological character Makara, riding the waves. The Makara is generally depicted as a half crocodile in the fore part with a tail of a fish. Makara is considered as the ‘Vahana’ (Vehicle) of Goddess Ganga and the sea god Varuna. Also Read | Onus on India to restart peace talks: Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari The crest symbolizes the amphibious capability of INS Magar as well as emphasizing its size, adaptability, agility and ferociousness. Major Operations undertaken by INS Magar Operation Pawan was undertaken in 1987 by Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) to take control of the Jaffna Peninsula (Sri Lanka) from the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE). The ship played a key role in the transfer of army troops and tanks to the Sri Lankan peninsula to provide assistance to the fighting effort of the troops on the ground. Watch | Srinagar gears up to host g20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2 × In the aftermath of the 26th December 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, the ship played a pivotal role in providing relief and evacuation of more than 1300 people from the affected area of Andaman Nicobar Islands, off India's east coast. During the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of 'Operation Samudra Setu' the ship was tasked with evacuating Indian Nationals and providing medical relief to friendly foreign countries. The ship was deployed to Male, Maldives, and safely evacuated 202 Indians including 24 women, two expectant mothers, and two children. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's amphibious assault ship INS Magar sails into sunset after 36 yrs of service

For the first time ever, an Indian Navy ship was presented with an on-the-spot honour by the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS). Generally, ships and Navy personnel are awarded on events of national importance, such as Independence Day, Republic Day and Navy Day.

However, INS Nireekshak, a Dive Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel of the Indian Navy was awarded the on-the-spot 'Chief of the Naval Staff Unit Citation', when the Navy Chief visited the ship on Monday, in Kerala.&nbsp;

Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Indian Navy Chief visited INS Nireekshak under Southern Naval Command (Indian Navy's Training Command) at Kochi and interacted with the diving team of the ship. The team has been involved in salvage operations at a depth of 219 metres in the Arabian Sea.

This is the deepest salvage operation carried out in the country's waters. During his address to the ship's crew, the CNS complimented the dedicated effort of the ship in conducting the deep diving operations.&nbsp;

He exhorted the undaunted spirit of the ‘Men Behind the Machine’ and presented commendations to the divers, for deep sea diving &amp; undertaking salvage ops under the most challenging circumstances.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congratulations 👏to Team <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INSNireekshak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INSNireekshak</a> under <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SNC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SNC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kochi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kochi</a> for award of On-the-spot Chief of the Naval Staff Unit <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Citation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Citation</a> by Adm R Hari Kumar <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CNS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CNS</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Commitment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Commitment</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Excellence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Excellence</a>, Hard work &amp; Dedication by the crew in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/deepseadiving?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#deepseadiving</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/salvage?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#salvage</a> ops have truly paid off.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritKaal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritKaal</a> <a href="https://t.co/kYdgyaORfb">https://t.co/kYdgyaORfb</a> <a href="https://t.co/FWrL5eyPrP">pic.twitter.com/FWrL5eyPrP</a>
— PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefencePROkochi/status/1627643847223439365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Built by Mazgaon Shipbuilders in 1985, the ship has been in service with the Navy since 1989 and was commissioned in the year 1995. INS Nireekshak has been part of various diving operations and holds the record for the deepest dive carried out in the country to a depth of 257 metres.

Nireekshak had also recently completed a solemn dive off the Gujarat coast to pay homage by laying a wreath at 80 metres depth, the resting site of erstwhile INS Khukri which sank during the 1971 war. INS Khukri, a British-origin anti-submarine warfare frigate has been the only Indian Naval vessel to have been lost in combat.

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For the first time ever, an Indian Navy ship was presented with an on-the-spot honour by the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS). Generally, ships and Navy personnel are awarded on events of national importance, such as Independence Day, Republic Day and Navy Day.

For the first time ever, an Indian Navy ship was presented with an on-the-spot honour by the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS). Generally, ships and Navy personnel are awarded on events of national importance, such as Independence Day, Republic Day and Navy Day. However, INS Nireekshak, a Dive Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel of the Indian Navy was awarded the on-the-spot 'Chief of the Naval Staff Unit Citation', when the Navy Chief visited the ship on Monday, in Kerala. Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Indian Navy Chief visited INS Nireekshak under Southern Naval Command (Indian Navy's Training Command) at Kochi and interacted with the diving team of the ship. The team has been involved in salvage operations at a depth of 219 metres in the Arabian Sea. This is the deepest salvage operation carried out in the country's waters. During his address to the ship's crew, the CNS complimented the dedicated effort of the ship in conducting the deep diving operations. He exhorted the undaunted spirit of the ‘Men Behind the Machine’ and presented commendations to the divers, for deep sea diving & undertaking salvage ops under the most challenging circumstances. Congratulations 👏to Team #INSNireekshak under #SNC #Kochi for award of On-the-spot Chief of the Naval Staff Unit #Citation by Adm R Hari Kumar #CNS.#Commitment to #Excellence, Hard work & Dedication by the crew in #deepseadiving & #salvage ops have truly paid off.#AmritKaal https://t.co/kYdgyaORfb pic.twitter.com/FWrL5eyPrP — PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) February 20, 2023 × Built by Mazgaon Shipbuilders in 1985, the ship has been in service with the Navy since 1989 and was commissioned in the year 1995. INS Nireekshak has been part of various diving operations and holds the record for the deepest dive carried out in the country to a depth of 257 metres. Nireekshak had also recently completed a solemn dive off the Gujarat coast to pay homage by laying a wreath at 80 metres depth, the resting site of erstwhile INS Khukri which sank during the 1971 war. INS Khukri, a British-origin anti-submarine warfare frigate has been the only Indian Naval vessel to have been lost in combat. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In a first, Indian Navy Chief presents on-the-spot honour for ship; here's why INS Nireekshak won it

This Indian Navy ship has caught the attention of forces around the world. The INS Mormugao is an indigenous stealth guided-missile destroyer equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors. What is it all about and where will it be deployed? What’s India’s Game Plan for the INS Mormugao? Watch Game Plan with Shivan Chanana.

INS Mormugao – What’s India’s Game Plan in the Indian Ocean? | WION Game Plan

Indian stock market benchmarks BSE Sensex and Nifty50 were trading over 1 per cent down on Tuesday following weak global cues.&nbsp;

At 2:30 pm, the 30-share Sensex was down 199 points or 0.63% per cent at 31,363, while the broader Nifty 50 index was trading at 9,197.95, down 41.25 points or 0.45%.

Today Rupee ended stronger at 75.50 per US dollar vs Monday's close of 75.74/$.

A total of 11 companies, including Nestle, Havells, and Bandhan Bank are scheduled to announce their March quarter results.

Indian stock market benchmarks BSE Sensex and Nifty50 were trading over 1 per cent down on Tuesday following weak global cues. At 2:30 pm, the 30-share Sensex was down 199 points or 0.

Indian stock market benchmarks BSE Sensex and Nifty50 were trading over 1 per cent down on Tuesday following weak global cues. At 2:30 pm, the 30-share Sensex was down 199 points or 0.63% per cent at 31,363, while the broader Nifty 50 index was trading at 9,197.95, down 41.25 points or 0.45%. Today Rupee ended stronger at 75.50 per US dollar vs Monday's close of 75.74/$. A total of 11 companies, including Nestle, Havells, and Bandhan Bank are scheduled to announce their March quarter results.

Explained: Indian Navy’s indigenous stealth guided-missile destroyer INS Mormugao

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

INS Vikrant is symbol of new India's potential, says PM Modi; Indian Navy gets its first ensign

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will commission India's first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant at Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kerala today.

INS Vikrant: Indian PM Narendra Modi to unveil new ensign of Indian Navy

Marking the beginning of a new era in India's Naval capabilities, the country's first indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC) Vikrant will be commissioned into the Navy as INS Vikrant, on Friday, September 2nd. The most expensive piece of military hardware in India's arsenal, the Vikrant will be formally inducted into the Indian Navy, at an event at the Cochin Shipyard Limited, the state-run shipyard in the Southern state of Kerala, where the vessel was built. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and senior officials from the Armed Forces are expected to be present at the event.&nbsp;

The commissioning of the Vikrant marks a significant milestone for India, as the country will henceforth be able to defend its 7500-km-long coastline with two operational aircraft carriers - INS Vikramaditya (of Russian origin) and the Indigenously designed and built Vikrant. However, the Vikrant would require more than a year following its commissioning to be fully operational. Thus far, the ship's crucial systems and sub-systems have been tested during multiple phases of sea trials. However, in order for the ship to be fully combat-ready, there are several other components such as radars, weapons etc. to be integrated, tested and proven.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-rejects-volodymyr-zelenskys-request-to-impose-a-blanket-visa-ban-on-russians-509310" hreflang="en">US rejects Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians</a>

Similarly, while various helicopters operated by the Navy have landed and taken off from the deck of the Vikrant, the carrier-based fighter aircraft of the Indian Navy, the Russian-origin Mig 29K are yet to land on the deck. The installation and testing of restraining blocks and arrestor wires that facilitate the take-off and landing of the aircraft are also to be carried out in the coming months.&nbsp;

Why IAC Vikrant is a floating fortress?

The Indian Navy has operated aircraft carriers for more than five decades, but, those were all of foreign origin. Vikrant brings to the end a long wait for India's first indigenous aircraft carrier. With nearly 76% indigenous components and parts, the Vikrant is a towering symbol of India's shipbuilding capabilities, and progress in developing defence hardware.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Ground Report: An on-board look at India’s first-ever indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant

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Built at a cost of Rs.20,000cr, the warship has a displacement of over 40,000tons(which is approximately 8 times the weight of an average warship). The floating airfield is 262 meters long and 62 meters at its widest, and the ship's flight deck is as vast as two football fields. The body of the ship or its hull has enough steel to erect more than three Eiffel towers, that’s about 21,000 tons of steel, specially developed by India’s Defence Research Development Organization.

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Beneath the flight deck, there are 2300 compartments of varying sizes. This 18-storey tall carrier is meant to be home to 1,700 crew, and nearly 30 aircraft. This floating city is powered by four LM-2500 Gas turbines that produce 90MW of Power for propulsion. &nbsp;All that propulsion power helps the carrier attain a top speed of 28knots and a cruising speed of 18knots. It carries enough fuel to cover the entire 7500-km-long Indian coast twice, without having to think about refuelling.&nbsp;

The IAC is literally an airbase at sea, it is meant to carry two dozen deck-based fighter planes and a handful of helicopters. The IAC never sails alone, the aircraft carrier is the leader of a carrier strike group, which is a tightly-knit flotilla that complements the strengths and capabilities of one another. &nbsp;As a leader of the carrier battle group, the IAC commands and controls all aerial assets, including those of its accompanying warships. Carrier strike groups can undertake a wide range of tasks and are a game changer in modern-day air-sea battle and power projection.

Marking the beginning of a new era in India's Naval capabilities, the country's first indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC) Vikrant will be commissioned into the Navy as INS Vikrant, on Friday, September 2nd.

Marking the beginning of a new era in India's Naval capabilities, the country's first indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC) Vikrant will be commissioned into the Navy as INS Vikrant, on Friday, September 2nd. The most expensive piece of military hardware in India's arsenal, the Vikrant will be formally inducted into the Indian Navy, at an event at the Cochin Shipyard Limited, the state-run shipyard in the Southern state of Kerala, where the vessel was built. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and senior officials from the Armed Forces are expected to be present at the event. The commissioning of the Vikrant marks a significant milestone for India, as the country will henceforth be able to defend its 7500-km-long coastline with two operational aircraft carriers - INS Vikramaditya (of Russian origin) and the Indigenously designed and built Vikrant. However, the Vikrant would require more than a year following its commissioning to be fully operational. Thus far, the ship's crucial systems and sub-systems have been tested during multiple phases of sea trials. However, in order for the ship to be fully combat-ready, there are several other components such as radars, weapons etc. to be integrated, tested and proven. ALSO READ | US rejects Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians Similarly, while various helicopters operated by the Navy have landed and taken off from the deck of the Vikrant, the carrier-based fighter aircraft of the Indian Navy, the Russian-origin Mig 29K are yet to land on the deck. The installation and testing of restraining blocks and arrestor wires that facilitate the take-off and landing of the aircraft are also to be carried out in the coming months. Why IAC Vikrant is a floating fortress? The Indian Navy has operated aircraft carriers for more than five decades, but, those were all of foreign origin. Vikrant brings to the end a long wait for India's first indigenous aircraft carrier. With nearly 76% indigenous components and parts, the Vikrant is a towering symbol of India's shipbuilding capabilities, and progress in developing defence hardware. WATCH | WION Ground Report: An on-board look at India’s first-ever indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant Built at a cost of Rs.20,000cr, the warship has a displacement of over 40,000tons(which is approximately 8 times the weight of an average warship). The floating airfield is 262 meters long and 62 meters at its widest, and the ship's flight deck is as vast as two football fields. The body of the ship or its hull has enough steel to erect more than three Eiffel towers, that’s about 21,000 tons of steel, specially developed by India’s Defence Research Development Organization. ALSO READ | Anthony Fauci: The face of America's fight against COVID-19 Beneath the flight deck, there are 2300 compartments of varying sizes. This 18-storey tall carrier is meant to be home to 1,700 crew, and nearly 30 aircraft. This floating city is powered by four LM-2500 Gas turbines that produce 90MW of Power for propulsion. All that propulsion power helps the carrier attain a top speed of 28knots and a cruising speed of 18knots. It carries enough fuel to cover the entire 7500-km-long Indian coast twice, without having to think about refuelling. The IAC is literally an airbase at sea, it is meant to carry two dozen deck-based fighter planes and a handful of helicopters. The IAC never sails alone, the aircraft carrier is the leader of a carrier strike group, which is a tightly-knit flotilla that complements the strengths and capabilities of one another. As a leader of the carrier battle group, the IAC commands and controls all aerial assets, including those of its accompanying warships. Carrier strike groups can undertake a wide range of tasks and are a game changer in modern-day air-sea battle and power projection.

India's Indigenous aircraft carrier 'Vikrant' to be Commissioned into Navy on  Sept 2: Sources

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

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

The mega project of constructing India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier to be commissioned in 2022 as INS Vikrant&nbsp;has resulted in immense learning and capacity building for Indian industry and state-run entities, said admiral Karambir Singh, India’s Navy chief.

Admiral Karambir Singh also added that the previous and ongoing trials of the aircraft carrier has been&nbsp;going extremely well. The Navy chief and Sarbananda Sonowal, minister for ports, shipping was on a short visit to the 40,000 tonne vessel that is undergoing its second sea trial off the Kochi coast.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="INS Vikrant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcaf4ef0-33a5-4adf-a927-04623cfd7783" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20211031-WA0123.jpg" />

Referring to the first sea trial of the IAC-1, admiral Singh said that the ship had performed at 100 per cent&nbsp;power in a short duration and had undergone tests for its endurance, hull and sea-keeping. 
 
<img alt="INS Vikrant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee0c8b18-5133-45fb-9c97-760517554f8f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20211031-WA0126.jpg" />

He expressed confidence that the Navy could take delivery of the carrier in April 2022 and commission it by August. Commending the IAC project and its implementation thus far, the Navy chief said that the carrier was 76 per cent&nbsp;indigenous and had been realised within budget. It&nbsp;involved 550 Indian industries and&nbsp;provided work opportunities for 13,000 persons, besides the main shipbuilder, state-run Cochin Shipyard Limited(CSL).&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="INS Vikrant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8348d3a4-7262-49ef-bc49-b6e6cbe769dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20211031-WA0123_0.jpg" />

When&nbsp;queried regarding the key learnings from the IAC project and also the overall production timelines of ships facing delays and whether India could catch up to China’s speed of shipbuilding. The Navy chief replied, “There was a very steep learning curve and we learnt fairly quickly and learnt a lot. We developed important capabilities. We have a dry dock meant for 65,000tonne class ships coming up, we have mastered the indigenous DMR249 ship-grade steel and all our upcoming ships are built using it. There have been delays, but there are many payoffs as well."&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="INS Vikrant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0e3c10b-7558-4a00-a822-072b61ad1f88" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20211031-WA0124.jpg" />

The Navy chief added how the Indian industry and shipbuilders picked up modern techniques including integrated construction and had seen the immense growth and success of the Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design.

Additionally, he pointed out that almost all of the 42 ships that were ordered by the Indian Navy(Ministry of Defence) were&nbsp;made indigenously. Notably, the chief emphasised that India could cut short the timelines of ship production in the coming years&nbsp;owing to the experience gained thus far.&nbsp;

On the role of the aircraft carrier, he said that the carrier battle group was central to Naval operations.

“Submarines are key to sea-denial(to enemy) and carriers are key to complete control and domination of a region. Nearly 90 per cent&nbsp;of India’s trade is via the sea route, hence carriers are crucial to protect our maritime interests and to prevent the enemy from reaching and interfering(in our waters and sea lanes of communication)."&nbsp;

When queried on the indigenous fighter aircraft LCA Tejas’ Naval variant being used on India’s carriers, the Navy chief replied that the LCA had already landed on the operational carrier INS Vikramaditya and served as a technology demonstrator.

He elaborated that the landing on a carrier deck and landing on-shore was&nbsp;different and how carrier-borne aircraft needed to be built differently from their land counterparts. He also added that the Indian Navy was looking for a twin-engine deck-based fighter aircraft. However, when queried if approval was granted for the much-talked-about&nbsp;third aircraft carrier, the Navy Chief replied that it wasn’t granted.&nbsp;

Minister Sarbananda Sonowal shared his immense gratitude towards the Indian Navy, Cochin Shipyard Limited and all other stakeholders, ancillary units for realizing such a mega project, within the country.

He said that India’s shipbuilders had developed the ability, confidence, infrastructure and team spirit&nbsp;for serving the nation. He added that&nbsp;Cochin Shipyard Limited had built India’s largest ship which opens up more opportunities for the state-run shipbuilder and also to the private sector&nbsp;owing to the growing push for Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India).

The mega project of constructing India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier to be commissioned in 2022 as INS Vikrant has resulted in immense learning and capacity building for Indian industry and state-run entities, said admiral Karambir Singh, India’s Navy chief.

The mega project of constructing India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier to be commissioned in 2022 as INS Vikrant has resulted in immense learning and capacity building for Indian industry and state-run entities, said admiral Karambir Singh, India’s Navy chief. Admiral Karambir Singh also added that the previous and ongoing trials of the aircraft carrier has been going extremely well. The Navy chief and Sarbananda Sonowal, minister for ports, shipping was on a short visit to the 40,000 tonne vessel that is undergoing its second sea trial off the Kochi coast. Referring to the first sea trial of the IAC-1, admiral Singh said that the ship had performed at 100 per cent power in a short duration and had undergone tests for its endurance, hull and sea-keeping. He expressed confidence that the Navy could take delivery of the carrier in April 2022 and commission it by August. Commending the IAC project and its implementation thus far, the Navy chief said that the carrier was 76 per cent indigenous and had been realised within budget. It involved 550 Indian industries and provided work opportunities for 13,000 persons, besides the main shipbuilder, state-run Cochin Shipyard Limited(CSL). When queried regarding the key learnings from the IAC project and also the overall production timelines of ships facing delays and whether India could catch up to China’s speed of shipbuilding. The Navy chief replied, “There was a very steep learning curve and we learnt fairly quickly and learnt a lot. We developed important capabilities. We have a dry dock meant for 65,000tonne class ships coming up, we have mastered the indigenous DMR249 ship-grade steel and all our upcoming ships are built using it. There have been delays, but there are many payoffs as well." The Navy chief added how the Indian industry and shipbuilders picked up modern techniques including integrated construction and had seen the immense growth and success of the Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design. Additionally, he pointed out that almost all of the 42 ships that were ordered by the Indian Navy(Ministry of Defence) were made indigenously. Notably, the chief emphasised that India could cut short the timelines of ship production in the coming years owing to the experience gained thus far. On the role of the aircraft carrier, he said that the carrier battle group was central to Naval operations. “Submarines are key to sea-denial(to enemy) and carriers are key to complete control and domination of a region. Nearly 90 per cent of India’s trade is via the sea route, hence carriers are crucial to protect our maritime interests and to prevent the enemy from reaching and interfering(in our waters and sea lanes of communication)." When queried on the indigenous fighter aircraft LCA Tejas’ Naval variant being used on India’s carriers, the Navy chief replied that the LCA had already landed on the operational carrier INS Vikramaditya and served as a technology demonstrator. He elaborated that the landing on a carrier deck and landing on-shore was different and how carrier-borne aircraft needed to be built differently from their land counterparts. He also added that the Indian Navy was looking for a twin-engine deck-based fighter aircraft. However, when queried if approval was granted for the much-talked-about third aircraft carrier, the Navy Chief replied that it wasn’t granted. Minister Sarbananda Sonowal shared his immense gratitude towards the Indian Navy, Cochin Shipyard Limited and all other stakeholders, ancillary units for realizing such a mega project, within the country. He said that India’s shipbuilders had developed the ability, confidence, infrastructure and team spirit for serving the nation. He added that Cochin Shipyard Limited had built India’s largest ship which opens up more opportunities for the state-run shipbuilder and also to the private sector owing to the growing push for Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India).

INS Vikrant: Going extremely well, says Indian Navy chief on sea trials of indigenous aircraft carrier

Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa reached the port of Antsiranana, Madagascar on Friday with an Indian naval training team on-board.&nbsp;

The Indian naval training team will be deployed in Madagascar for capacity building and training of the Malagasy Special Forces for two weeks.&nbsp;

"INS Jalashwa reaches the port of Antsiranana, Madagascar with a five-member @indiannavytraining team to help capacity building and training of the Malagasy Special Forces for two weeks," Indian ambassador Abhay Kumar wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;

India and Madagascar share wide cooperation in defence sector. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Defence Cooperation was signed between India and Madagascar in March 2018 during the visit of the President to Madagascar and several bilateral cooperation projects in the area of defence are under discussions between the two countries.&nbsp;

A four-member delegation led by Major General Leon Jean Richard Rakotonirina, Minister of National Defence, Republic of Madagascar visited India from February 3 to 5 to participate in the Aero India 2021 and IOR Defence Ministers Conclave at Bengaluru.&nbsp;

INS Jalashwa will leave for Comoros to deliver 1,000 metric tonnes of rice and then, will head to the Port of Ehoala in Madagascar to deliver a consignment of 1,000 metric tonnes of rice and 100,000 tablets of HCQ to help Madagascar in dealing with the drought situation in South Madagascar.&nbsp;

The supplies of food assistance and support for capacity building to Madagascar is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of SAGAR - Security and Growth for all in the Region and India's time-tested role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa reached the port of Antsiranana, Madagascar on Friday with an Indian naval training team on-board. The Indian naval training team will be deployed in Madagascar for capacity building and training of the Malagasy Special Forces for two weeks.

Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa reached the port of Antsiranana, Madagascar on Friday with an Indian naval training team on-board. The Indian naval training team will be deployed in Madagascar for capacity building and training of the Malagasy Special Forces for two weeks. "INS Jalashwa reaches the port of Antsiranana, Madagascar with a five-member @indiannavytraining team to help capacity building and training of the Malagasy Special Forces for two weeks," Indian ambassador Abhay Kumar wrote in a tweet. India and Madagascar share wide cooperation in defence sector. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Defence Cooperation was signed between India and Madagascar in March 2018 during the visit of the President to Madagascar and several bilateral cooperation projects in the area of defence are under discussions between the two countries. A four-member delegation led by Major General Leon Jean Richard Rakotonirina, Minister of National Defence, Republic of Madagascar visited India from February 3 to 5 to participate in the Aero India 2021 and IOR Defence Ministers Conclave at Bengaluru. INS Jalashwa will leave for Comoros to deliver 1,000 metric tonnes of rice and then, will head to the Port of Ehoala in Madagascar to deliver a consignment of 1,000 metric tonnes of rice and 100,000 tablets of HCQ to help Madagascar in dealing with the drought situation in South Madagascar. The supplies of food assistance and support for capacity building to Madagascar is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of SAGAR - Security and Growth for all in the Region and India's time-tested role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region. (With inputs from agencies)

INS Jalashwa arrives at Antsiranana port, Madagascar with naval training team 

Indian navy ship INS Kesari travelled over 7,500 nautical miles in over 55 days and delivered aid to five countries -- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles -- amid the coronavirus crisis.

Under the "Mission Sagar", the ship sailed on May 10 and came back to India on June 28. A ministry of external affairs release said the aim of the mission was to "deliver assistance to our maritime neighbours in dealing with the COVID crisis. India’s humanitarian assistance included supplies of essential food items, medicines, Ayurvedic medicines and deployment of Medical Assistance Teams (MAT) to Mauritius and Comoros.".&nbsp;

The Indian ship received a warm welcome to countries where it went. The first destination was the Maldives where the consignment was formally handed over by the Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir in an online ceremony, attended by Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi.&nbsp;

Maldives President Ibrahim Solih in a tweet said, "During the COVID crisis, India has been a true friend to the Maldives. India's recent gift of essential food supplies is particularly helpful during these challenging times."

The secnd destination was Mauritius were it was received by the Minister for Health of Mauritius, Dr Kailesh Jagutpal with the consignments handed over to him by Indian High Commissioner Tanmaya Lal. Pravind Jugnauth, Mauritius PM conveyed his country's gratitude to India over the phone to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and in a tweet said, "Our relationship with India will always be special as it is based on mutual trust and common values."&nbsp;

By end of May, the ship had reached Madagascar were it was welcomed by Foreign Minister of the country Tehindrazanarivelo Liva Djacoba in the presence of Indian envoy Abhay Kumar.

From Madagascar, it went to Comoros and was received by the Minister of Health, Solidarity, Social Protection and Gender Promotion of Comoros Loub Yacout Zaidu. The president of the country Azali Assoumani in a tweet said, "In the name of the Comorian people, I am very thankful to #India for the arrival of a Medical Assistance Team and medicines today in Moroni to help us fight COVID19 and Dengue."

"The assistance marks the strengthening of the cooperation and the relationship."&nbsp;

The last stop was Seychelles. On June 7, 2020, in a handing over ceremony organised the same day, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Blue Economy, Amb. Barry Faure and Secretary of State for Health, Amb. Marie Lloyd jointly received the consignment on behalf of Government of Seychelles from the High Commissioner of India Dalbir Singh Suhag.

Indian navy ship INS Kesari travelled over 7,500 nautical miles in over 55 days and delivered aid to five countries -- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles -- amid the coronavirus crisis.

Indian navy ship INS Kesari travelled over 7,500 nautical miles in over 55 days and delivered aid to five countries -- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles -- amid the coronavirus crisis. Under the "Mission Sagar", the ship sailed on May 10 and came back to India on June 28. A ministry of external affairs release said the aim of the mission was to "deliver assistance to our maritime neighbours in dealing with the COVID crisis. India’s humanitarian assistance included supplies of essential food items, medicines, Ayurvedic medicines and deployment of Medical Assistance Teams (MAT) to Mauritius and Comoros.". The Indian ship received a warm welcome to countries where it went. The first destination was the Maldives where the consignment was formally handed over by the Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir in an online ceremony, attended by Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi. Maldives President Ibrahim Solih in a tweet said, "During the COVID crisis, India has been a true friend to the Maldives. India's recent gift of essential food supplies is particularly helpful during these challenging times." The secnd destination was Mauritius were it was received by the Minister for Health of Mauritius, Dr Kailesh Jagutpal with the consignments handed over to him by Indian High Commissioner Tanmaya Lal. Pravind Jugnauth, Mauritius PM conveyed his country's gratitude to India over the phone to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and in a tweet said, "Our relationship with India will always be special as it is based on mutual trust and common values." By end of May, the ship had reached Madagascar were it was welcomed by Foreign Minister of the country Tehindrazanarivelo Liva Djacoba in the presence of Indian envoy Abhay Kumar. From Madagascar, it went to Comoros and was received by the Minister of Health, Solidarity, Social Protection and Gender Promotion of Comoros Loub Yacout Zaidu. The president of the country Azali Assoumani in a tweet said, "In the name of the Comorian people, I am very thankful to #India for the arrival of a Medical Assistance Team and medicines today in Moroni to help us fight COVID19 and Dengue." "The assistance marks the strengthening of the cooperation and the relationship." The last stop was Seychelles. On June 7, 2020, in a handing over ceremony organised the same day, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Blue Economy, Amb. Barry Faure and Secretary of State for Health, Amb. Marie Lloyd jointly received the consignment on behalf of Government of Seychelles from the High Commissioner of India Dalbir Singh Suhag.

INS Kesari travels 7,500 nautical miles in over 55 days to deliver coronavirus aid

The second repatriation Navy ship INS Magar has left male with 202 stranded Indian nationals. The 202 stranded Indian nationals include 24 women, two expectant mothers, two children and one man from Tamil Nadu with a fractured leg.

The Navy in a statement said, "Even as heavy rains at Male made conditions difficult, the ship made arrangements to ensure safety of people."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizens-aboard-ins-jalashwa-return-from-maldives-as-a-part-of-repatriation-mission-297742">Also read:&nbsp;Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission</a>

The ship is expected to arrive on the Indian shores in 48 hours time. Indian envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir thanked Indian Navy for its support.

He said, "Operation Vande Bharat is the largest evacuation operation ever conducted by the government of India. We are sending 202 Indian nationals to Kochi onboard INS Magar. Grateful to Indian navy for its operation Samudra Setu and sparing INS Jalashwa and INS Magar for this major operation which means so much to Indian community members who will soon be getting back to meet families."&nbsp;

INS Jalashwa with 687 repatriated Indians reached Kochi harbour on Sunday morning. INS Jalashwa was the first repatriation ship sent last week on May 08 to get back stranded Indian nationals.&nbsp;

India started its mega repatriation process last week to bring back foreign Indian nationals who are stranded due to COVID-19 crisis by air and sea.&nbsp;

The second repatriation Navy ship INS Magar has left male with 202 stranded Indian nationals. The 202 stranded Indian nationals include 24 women, two expectant mothers, two children and one man from Tamil Nadu with a fractured leg.

The second repatriation Navy ship INS Magar has left male with 202 stranded Indian nationals. The 202 stranded Indian nationals include 24 women, two expectant mothers, two children and one man from Tamil Nadu with a fractured leg. The Navy in a statement said, "Even as heavy rains at Male made conditions difficult, the ship made arrangements to ensure safety of people." Also read: Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission The ship is expected to arrive on the Indian shores in 48 hours time. Indian envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir thanked Indian Navy for its support. He said, "Operation Vande Bharat is the largest evacuation operation ever conducted by the government of India. We are sending 202 Indian nationals to Kochi onboard INS Magar. Grateful to Indian navy for its operation Samudra Setu and sparing INS Jalashwa and INS Magar for this major operation which means so much to Indian community members who will soon be getting back to meet families." INS Jalashwa with 687 repatriated Indians reached Kochi harbour on Sunday morning. INS Jalashwa was the first repatriation ship sent last week on May 08 to get back stranded Indian nationals. India started its mega repatriation process last week to bring back foreign Indian nationals who are stranded due to COVID-19 crisis by air and sea.

Operation Setu Samudra: INS Magar departs from Male; to bring back 202 stranded Indians

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched&nbsp;Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be&nbsp;bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from&nbsp;Maldives.

Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region has set sail on Saturday evening, and joined&nbsp;joined INS Jalashwa.&nbsp;INS Jalashwa set sail from Maldives on Friday bring with more than 700 passengers onboard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fixes-40-per-head-for-repatriation-by-sea-from-male-to-kochi-297273">Also read:&nbsp;India fixes $40 per head for repatriation by sea from Male to Kochi</a>

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Operation <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SamudraSetu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SamudraSetu</a>: Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region joined INS Jalashwa, on her passage back to Kochi in Kerala from the Maldives. INS Jalashwa is bringing back 698 Indians from the Maldives. <a href="https://t.co/NL5GAUWV5z">pic.twitter.com/NL5GAUWV5z</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1259109613242208258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"This operation is being carried out in close coordination with ministries of defence, external affairs, home affairs, health and various other agencies of the government of India and state governments," the Navy said in a statement.

This is Indian Navy's first big-scale repatriation operation during the pandemic.

As the officials gear up to welcome the stranded Indians back home, a top police officer assured that all arrangements were in place in the Kerala to accommodate and transport&nbsp;the returnees. All passengers will have to go through thermal scanning upon arrival on the port. They will laos be asked to sign a self-declaration form before disembarking the vessel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-flight-from-dhaka-brings-back-129-stranded-indians-297624">Also read:&nbsp;Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians</a>

The repatriated Indians&nbsp;comprise&nbsp;over 400 Keralites, around 180 people are from Tamil Nadu and the rest hail from Karnataka, Goa,&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh, Assam,&nbsp;Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, among other states.

The ship is expected to arrive at the Cruise Terminal of the Cochin Port Trust on Sunday between 9.30-10 am.

Upon returning, Keralities will be transported by KSRTC buses in small groups.&nbsp;The people from other states will be quarantined in&nbsp;Ernakulam for 14 days.

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from Maldives.

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from Maldives. Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region has set sail on Saturday evening, and joined joined INS Jalashwa. INS Jalashwa set sail from Maldives on Friday bring with more than 700 passengers onboard. Also read: India fixes $40 per head for repatriation by sea from Male to Kochi Operation #SamudraSetu: Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region joined INS Jalashwa, on her passage back to Kochi in Kerala from the Maldives. INS Jalashwa is bringing back 698 Indians from the Maldives. pic.twitter.com/NL5GAUWV5z — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2020 × "This operation is being carried out in close coordination with ministries of defence, external affairs, home affairs, health and various other agencies of the government of India and state governments," the Navy said in a statement. This is Indian Navy's first big-scale repatriation operation during the pandemic. As the officials gear up to welcome the stranded Indians back home, a top police officer assured that all arrangements were in place in the Kerala to accommodate and transport the returnees. All passengers will have to go through thermal scanning upon arrival on the port. They will laos be asked to sign a self-declaration form before disembarking the vessel. Also read: Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians The repatriated Indians comprise over 400 Keralites, around 180 people are from Tamil Nadu and the rest hail from Karnataka, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, among other states. The ship is expected to arrive at the Cruise Terminal of the Cochin Port Trust on Sunday between 9.30-10 am. Upon returning, Keralities will be transported by KSRTC buses in small groups. The people from other states will be quarantined in Ernakulam for 14 days.

Operation Samudra Setu: Second naval ship sets sails for India

INS Jalashwa set sail from Male to bring back stranded Indians Indian Navy Ship (INS) Jalashwa sailed out from Male for Kochi on Friday (May 08) night with 698 citizens stranded in the Maldives due to lockdown imposed to contain the spreading of the deadly coronavirus

INS Jalashwa set sail from Male to bring back stranded Indians

On Tuesday, India has sent three naval ships to evacuate its citizens stranded in the Maldives and UAE due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Three ships sent to evacuate Indians from the Maldives and UAE

The Congress on Thursday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleging that the late <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/rajiv-gandhi-used-ins-vikrant-for-personal-holidays-pm-narendra-modi-217077">Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as "personal taxi"</a> on a family vacation, saying he is a "serial liar" who does not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation.

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said retired Indian Navy Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha has clarified that the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation.

"But facts don't matter to Modi. He doesn't have anything to talk about his own achievements. Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for the last six months now to debate on Rafale deal, demonetisation, unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak," he said at a press conference.

Taking a swipe at Modi for making allegations against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/desperate-congress-has-now-discovered-bjps-role-in-rajiv-gandhi-assassination-arun-jaitley-217221">Rajiv Gandhi</a> who is no more, Khera said has anyone read about former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru saying that his next election will be against Mughal emperor Humayun, or Indira Gandhi making her entire campaign against Queen Victoria.

"We are now hearing that. Modi ji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. Prime Minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today. Vice Admiral (retd) Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday," he said.

Khera said Modi is the first Prime Minister who asks for votes on his "failures" and Pulwama was an example of this.

"It was a big intelligence failure. We lost our soldiers due to this monumental failure in internal security," Khera alleged.

The Congress leader also dared Modi to name the people he takes on foreign trips.

"We have seen the campaign, there has been no mention of demonetisation. But you tremble when it is mentioned and hide behind Rajiv Gandhi," he said 
Khera also slammed the Prime Minister for raising the Bofors issue saying it was a BJP-led government at the Centre when the Delhi High Court gave a clean chit to Rajiv Gandhi.

It was Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government that decided against appealing the order, he said.

"We will debate on Bofors provided you are ready to debate on Rafale," Khera said.

"Those who are no more cannot come and respond to you. Have the courage to respond to those who are there to fight you and are challenging you to a debate on Rafale, on unemployment, on demonetisation, on rural distress on faulty implementation of the GST," he said.

Earlier, Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel on Thursday said abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of "ultimate cowardice".

"Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred and is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations and abuses which are being unleashed on him. Abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of ultimate cowardice," Patel tweeted.

"But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP backed V P Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security and left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests," he alleged.

Prime Minister Modi, at a rally here on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him.

"Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi had asked.

The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake.

"INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said.

Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89.

The Congress on Thursday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleging that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as "personal taxi" on a family vacation, saying he is a "serial liar" who does not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation.

The Congress on Thursday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleging that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as "personal taxi" on a family vacation, saying he is a "serial liar" who does not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said retired Indian Navy Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha has clarified that the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation. "But facts don't matter to Modi. He doesn't have anything to talk about his own achievements. Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for the last six months now to debate on Rafale deal, demonetisation, unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak," he said at a press conference. Taking a swipe at Modi for making allegations against Rajiv Gandhi who is no more, Khera said has anyone read about former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru saying that his next election will be against Mughal emperor Humayun, or Indira Gandhi making her entire campaign against Queen Victoria. "We are now hearing that. Modi ji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. Prime Minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today. Vice Admiral (retd) Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday," he said. Khera said Modi is the first Prime Minister who asks for votes on his "failures" and Pulwama was an example of this. "It was a big intelligence failure. We lost our soldiers due to this monumental failure in internal security," Khera alleged. The Congress leader also dared Modi to name the people he takes on foreign trips. "We have seen the campaign, there has been no mention of demonetisation. But you tremble when it is mentioned and hide behind Rajiv Gandhi," he said Khera also slammed the Prime Minister for raising the Bofors issue saying it was a BJP-led government at the Centre when the Delhi High Court gave a clean chit to Rajiv Gandhi. It was Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government that decided against appealing the order, he said. "We will debate on Bofors provided you are ready to debate on Rafale," Khera said. "Those who are no more cannot come and respond to you. Have the courage to respond to those who are there to fight you and are challenging you to a debate on Rafale, on unemployment, on demonetisation, on rural distress on faulty implementation of the GST," he said. Earlier, Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel on Thursday said abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of "ultimate cowardice". "Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred and is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations and abuses which are being unleashed on him. Abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of ultimate cowardice," Patel tweeted. "But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP backed V P Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security and left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests," he alleged. Prime Minister Modi, at a rally here on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi had asked. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said. Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89.

Modi does not have courage to fight elections on real issues: Congress on INS Viraat allegation

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