By developing a second naval base, India will strengthen its position in the Lakshadweep islands. This action is a component of the government's strategy to strengthen the region's military presence and security framework.
On March 6, INS Jatayu, a small naval facility, will be brought into service at Minicoy as part of the government's strategy to gradually increase military presence and security infrastructure in the strategically situated Lakshadweep islands in the Arabian Gulf.
Early in the 1980s, Naval Detachment Minicoy was formed, representing India's dedication to bolstering maritime security in the area.It was put under the Naval Officer-in-Charge's (Lakshadweep) operational command.
With this move, India's maritime presence in the area grows stronger as it becomes the second navy base in Lakshadweep following INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti. INS Jatayu will bring in a new age of capacity building and comprehensive development of the island territories by improving surveillance, operational reach, and resilience.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Adm. R. Hari Kumar, will be present for its launching. The Navy's commitment to gradually enhancing the security infrastructure in the strategically significant Lakshadweep Islands will reach a significant turning point with the addition.
What is the significance of the base?
The Navy's presence in the area will be further strengthened with the development of INS Jatayu, which coincides with plans to develop a dual-use airstrip at Minicoy. The Navy's determination to use India's geographic advantage to advance maritime interests is evident in the decision to transform the temporary installation at Minicoy into a full-fledged naval base. With a focus on anti-narcotics and anti-piracy activities in the western Arabian Sea, the base will expand the Indian Navy's operational reach.
Along with improving connectivity to the mainland, it will also strengthen the Indian Navy's capacity to respond quickly in the area. The construction of a naval base fits with the Indian government's emphasis on the all-encompassing development of islands.
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