Operational might of Navy floors all
For the first time, the national level celebration is held outside the national capital
Visakhapatnam: The operational demonstration of Indian Navy's prowess left thousands of people, who thronged the beach road on Sunday evening amid winter breeze, mesmerised.
This year's display was unique as for the first time the national level celebrations were held outside the national capital. President of India Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, during her maiden visit to Andhra Pradesh after taking over the highest office of the country, graced the occasion as the chief guest after attending a civic reception given by the State Government at Vijayawada and a banquet hosted by Governor Biswa Bhushan Harichandan. Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy attended the functions.
Admiral R Harikumar, Chief of Naval Staff, and senior officials from Eastern, Western and Southern Naval Commands attended Navy Day celebrations.
The Navy Day is observed on December 4 every year to commemorate the Indian Navy's decisive victory at sea during the 1971 war with Pakistan. The Navy had undertaken the night strike under Operation Trident on December 4-5, 1971. To commemorate the success of men-in-white uniform, Navy Day celebration marks acknowledging and appreciating the Navy's heroic achievements.
Outstanding display of courage and skill was demonstrated by the personnel of Indian Navy along with their three-dimensional power. The operational display included showcasing the maneuverability of Hawk aircraft, sail past by submarines and sail by ship, demonstration by marine commandos, oil rig demolition, high speed run by fast interceptor craft, combat free fall, maneuvers by ships, display by Hawk aircraft, demonstrations by search and rescue by helicopters, demonstration of helicopters landing on ships, display by MiG 29 K aircraft, rocket firing by ships, fly past by naval aircraft, beating retreat. It concluded with ceremonial sunset and illumination of ships at anchorage offering a feast for the eyes of the spectators.
The Navy Day celebration is aimed at fostering greater outreach, renewing maritime consciousness amongst our citizens and highlights the Navy's contributions towards national security. "We continue to draw immense price and inspiration from the gallant deeds of our war heroes," said Vice-Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, in his message.
As part of Navy Day celebrations, homage to service personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in various actions including the 1971 war was made by placing wreaths at the Victory At Sea War Memorial by District Collector A Mallikarjun, Commissioner of Police Ch Srikanth and Vice Admiral VK Namballa (retd), president, Navy Foundation.
