The News Freedom
Mumbai, December 26
India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, addressed concerns over recent ship attacks, promising rigorous actions against the perpetrators, even pledging to find them “from the depths of seas.” This assertion came during the commissioning of INS Imphal, a stealth guided missile destroyer, in Mumbai. The event marked the formal induction of the third indigenous ‘Visakhapatnam’ class destroyer, reflecting India’s commitment to maritime security and ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defense.
Commissioned at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, INS Imphal stands as a symbol of India’s growing maritime power. With a length of 163m, 7,400 tonnes displacement, and propelled by powerful Gas Turbines, the vessel epitomizes India’s naval prowess. The Defence Minister highlighted its significance as a collaboration of various national strengths, emphasizing the nation’s collective responsibility towards security and progress.
Rajnath Singh stressed the need for balanced modernization across all services, especially in safeguarding trade routes that largely depend on maritime channels. Referring to recent suspected drone attacks on merchant vessels, he affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring sea lane security and combating piracy. He underlined the Navy’s pivotal role in India’s security apparatus, aiming to bolster maritime trade in the Indian Ocean Region.
Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral R Hari Kumar, hailed INS Imphal as a beacon of self-reliance and the Government’s vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ (One India, Best India). He emphasized the vessel’s role in thwarting threats and fortifying national unity in the face of adversity. Admiral Hari Kumar outlined the Navy’s efforts to counter piracy and drone attacks, highlighting the deployment of destroyers and a variety of naval assets for this purpose.
INS Imphal, named after a city in Northeast India, marks an ode to the region’s contribution to the nation and the Indian Navy. Its rapid construction, weapon readiness, and unique stealth features make it a formidable addition to India’s maritime defense arsenal. The vessel aims to inculcate a sense of nationalism among the youth and create a nationalistic workforce across the country, symbolizing India’s commitment to a secure maritime future.
Key Points:
- India’s Defense Minister vows action post recent ship attacks during INS Imphal commissioning.
- INS Imphal’s induction reflects India’s self-reliance in defense and commitment to maritime security.
- Defence Minister stresses balanced modernization for safeguarding sea-based trade routes.
- Navy’s Chief highlights INS Imphal’s role in combating threats, fortifying unity, and countering piracy.
- INS Imphal signifies the Northeast’s contribution and aims to foster a nationalistic workforce.