CNS Speech at INS Jatayu Commissioning
It is with a sense of pride and joy that I address you today on the occasion of the commissioning of INS Jatayu at Minicoy. This event holds immense significance, not just for the Bhartiya Nausena, but for our nation’s maritime security and strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific Region.
The Minicoy Island was traditionally considered to be the ancient capital of Lakshadweep Islands and is recognised among the locals as ‘The Island of the King’. In the Ramayana, Jatayu was the ‘First Responder’ trying to stop the abduction of Sita, even to the peril of his own life – exemplifying ‘Service before Self’. The naming of this unit as ‘Jatayu’, is an apt recognition of this spirit of providing security, surveillance and selfless service. Jatayu’s information to Lord Rama provided him crucial situational awareness leading to the successful quest that followed. Similarly, INS Baaz to the east in Andamans and now, INS Jatayu in the west at Minicoy, will serve as the eyes and ears of the Navy…and the Nation across the far reaches of the seas to safeguard our national interests – ‘Whatever be the challenge and whosoever be the challenger’.
As we commission Jatayu, it is crucial to recognise the pressing need for heightened surveillance amidst the prevailing geo-political developments which underscore the strategic significance of Lakshadweep to India. The Indian Ocean Region is witnessing an upsurge in maritime terror, crime and piracy.
The Indian Navy has responded with alacrity assuming an assertive posture in the West and North Arabian Sea undertaking Anti-drone and Anti-piracy operations to safeguard all merchant traffic in the region. I am sure that INS Jatayu will serve as a vanguard providing crucial ‘Maritime Domain Awareness’ and OTR facilities while enhancing our sustenance and surveillance of the Arabian Sea.
- Additionally, with the ongoing augmentation of infrastructure in coordination with Island Development Authority and NITI Aayog, I am confident these islands would be transformed into a hub of our Blue Economy endeavor and reflect a resilient and self-sufficient community of ‘Viksit Bharat with the potential to function as a springboard to further our reach and act as a catalyst in the overall development of the region.
This occasion not only symbolises the strength of our Navy but also underscores the Government of India’s commitment to safeguarding our maritime interests in line with the Hon’ble Pradhan Mantri’s vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region). The growing strength of the Indian Navy is not just to cater for these short-term ongoing crises, but more importantly to ensure the future balance of power in the Indo- Pacific region.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Island Development Authority and NITI Aayog for their work towards the sustainable development plan of the Lakshadweep and Minicoy islands.
To conclude, Congratulations Team Jatayu, for working tirelessly to achieve all critical milestones towards this day. Live upto your legacy of ‘Selfless Service’, Let the waves echo your spirit of ‘can do and will do’ attitude, and winds whisper tales of your commitment in ‘doing your duty, and doing it well’.
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