"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#Indian Navy

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Empowering India's Maritime Sector: National Maritime Day and Beyond

In a significant boost to India's defence sector, the Indian Navy has signed a landmark deal with Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited to develop a 6MW marine diesel engine. This ambitious project, worth Rs 270 crore, aims to promote self-reliance in marine engine development and reduce the country's dependence on foreign manufacturers.A Major Step Towards AatmanirbhartaThe project, sanctioned under the Make-I category, involves the design and development of a 6MW medium-speed marine diesel engine with over 50% indigenous content. The government will fund 70% of the development cost, which is a reflection of its commitment to promoting indigenous defence manufacturing. This initiative is a significant step towards achieving Aatmanirbharta in defence, a vision championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi .Key Features of the Project- The project involves the development of a 6MW marine diesel engine with over 50% indigenous content.- The engine will be used for main propulsion and power generation on ships of the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard.- The project also includes the development of detailed designs for diesel engines ranging from 3MW to 10MW.- The government will fund 70% of the development cost, which is Rs 270 crore.National Maritime Day: Celebrating India's Maritime HeritageAs the Indian Navy takes a giant leap towards self-reliance, the country is also gearing up to celebrate National Maritime Day on April 5. This day is observed annually to raise awareness about the importance of the maritime sector in trade and national security. The maritime industry in India plays a crucial role in both domestic transportation and international trade, and this day honors India's maritime history and highlights the shipping industry's contribution to the country's economic development .Significance of National Maritime Day- National Maritime Day aims to recognize the contributions of the maritime sector to India's growth and development.- The day is dedicated to the brave men who spend months at sea.- It serves as a platform to discuss advancements in maritime technology and sustainable shipping practices.National Maritime Day is celebrated by organizing seminars and conferences, maritime awards, and recognitions. Maritime securities also showcase advancements in port infrastructure through exhibitions and social media campaigns. Educational events and competitions related to maritime are also organized by schools and colleges to educate youths.As India celebrates National Maritime Day, the Indian Navy's deal with Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited is a significant step towards promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing. This project will not only strengthen indigenous capabilities but also save foreign exchange and reduce dependency on foreign OEMs.

5 Apr 2025
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"The Sea is Calling”: Two Indian Navy Women Take on the World!

Seven years after the first Navika Sagar Parikrama, history is once again unfolding at sea. Two courageous Indian Navy officers, Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, are about to embark on the second edition of this adventurous voyage, circumnavigating the globe on the indigenously-built sailboat, INSV Tarini. The duo’s expedition, flagged off by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi from INS Mandovi, Goa, sets the stage for an eight-month journey where they will navigate over 21,600 nautical miles—relying solely on wind power and their grit.The Women Behind the ExpeditionLt Cdr Roopa A, 32, hailing from Puducherry, and Lt Cdr Dilna K, who joined the Navy in 2014, both share a deep passion for adventure. Their stories are a blend of ambition, determination, and a love for the sea. Lt Cdr Dilna’s fascination with adventure began in childhood, inspiring her to join the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and pursue a career in the Navy. “I always wanted to do something different and challenging,” she says, recounting her journey from rifle shooting to mastering the art of sailing.Lt Cdr Roopa’s journey is equally inspiring. Starting her sailing career in dinghy boats, she couldn’t resist when the Navy called for volunteers for the Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition. “It’s every sailor’s dream to circumnavigate the globe,” she explains. Her passion for the sea is matched only by her dedication to honing her skills, preparing for what is sure to be the adventure of a lifetime.Source: Google Images Rigorous PreparationFor the past three years, Lt Cdr Roopa and Lt Cdr Dilna have been training tirelessly. They’ve sailed a staggering 38,000 nautical miles and completed trans-oceanic journeys, honing their skills through both solo and crewed voyages. Their training under Commander Abhilash Tomy, a seasoned circumnavigator, provided invaluable lessons in handling their boat and managing unforeseen repairs at sea.The officers began with six-member crewed sorties before advancing to dual-handed expeditions, sailing from Goa to Port Blair and back, and then to Mauritius. These voyages instilled the confidence needed for their current mission with Lt Cdr Roopa stating that they’ve spent more time at sea than on land in recent years.Life at Sea: A Blend of Adventure and RoutineSailing across the vast expanses of the ocean presents its own unique set of challenges. As Lt Cdr Roopa explains, “There’s no typical day at sea—every day is different.” Their days will involve setting up sails, maintaining equipment, watchkeeping, and chores, all while analyzing weather reports and sending situation updates to the Navy. Limited internet access will allow them to occasionally connect with their families.But it won’t be all work and no play. The officers have packed their personal items, each representing a bit of home and comfort for the long months ahead. Roopa has brought along books written by astronomer Carl Sagan and a treasured soft toy panda, affectionately named ‘Pan Pan,’ given to her by her sister. She’s also stocked up on home-made pickles and a playlist of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons songs. Dilna, meanwhile, is taking her ukulele, books, and a stash of comfort food—Calicut chips, tapioca chips, and of course, plenty of idli and dosa batter.A Message to the Next GenerationAs these trailblazers prepare to embark on their circumnavigation, their message to the next generation of aspiring sailors and adventurers is clear: believe in yourself. Both officers emphasize the importance of confidence, persistence, and seizing opportunities when they come your way.“When you dream big and pursue it with all your heart, setbacks will come. But you must turn those obstacles into stepping stones,” Lt Cdr Roopa advises. Lt Cdr Dilna adds, “Opportunities don’t come every day—grab them when they do, and have faith in your abilities.”What sets this expedition apart is that Lt Cdr Roopa and Lt Cdr Dilna will be the first Indian women to circumnavigate the globe in dual-handed mode. This feat requires not just skill but deep trust between the two sailors, as they will be responsible for navigating their vessel, managing equipment, and facing the unpredictable ocean together.“There are definitely mixed emotions—excitement, fear, and anticipation,” Lt Cdr Roopa admits. “But we’ve been preparing for this moment for three years. The sea is calling, and we’re ready.”

2 Oct 2024
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Breaking Barriers: Woman Naval Air Operations Officer To Head Navy’s R-Day Contingent

This year, women's power will be on display at the Republic Day celebrations as the Indian Navy's Republic Day contingent of 144 young sailors will be led by Lt Commander Disha Amrith, a female naval air operations official and its tableau will highlight the "Nari Shakti" in the force. Along with Amrith, Sub Lt Valli Meena S will be one of the three platoon leaders for the navy contingent. Amrith, 29, graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science from BMS College of Engineering in Karnataka. She was a member of the National Cadet Corps Republic Day team in 2008 and had always hoped to march with one of the three armed forces during the celebrations in Delhi. The officer, a native of Mangalore, enlisted in the Navy in 2016 and, after finishing her training in 2017, was assigned to a significant naval base in the Andaman and Nicobar islands. Speaking to PTI Amrith said that she is an aviator for Dornier aircraft and had been carrying out sorties in the plane. When questioned about the difficulties faced by women in the military, Amrith responded that she became stronger physically, and mentally, and is now more self-driven. She added that she was proud to be a part of the Navy and would continue to serve the Navy with full zeal and dedication.

23 Jan 2023
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Indian Navy Takes a Giant Step in Gender Neutrality As It Allows Women To Join It’s Elite Special Forces MARCOS

For the first time in the history of the armed forces, the Indian Navy has chosen to let women join its elite forces and serve as commandos. The move to enlist women in the special forces, according to Navy authorities, will improve their capability. To thwart unwanted threatening activities in Indian territory, the Air Force, Navy, and Army special forces undergo the most difficult and demanding training. For a very long time, the special forces in all three defense services have been male-dominant. Women can now opt to join marine commandos if they satisfy the Indian Navy's eligibility requirements. As per the guidelines, both sailors and female officers starting their military career as Agniveers next year will have the option to volunteer to become Marcos in the marine forces. Stating that this is a turning point in India’s military history, a naval officer said that no one is directly assigned a post, but people can volunteer for it. In the armed forces, Marcos undergoes extensive training to carry out many missions. They are able to conduct operations on the seas, in the air, and on land. The commandos are also capable of conducting offshore secret operations against enemy warships and installations. To support naval operations, they are trained for specialized diving activities. Women are now welcome in all branches of the Navy to perform tasks related to vessel duties, aviation, Marcos, and other naval services. Over time, the marine defence has changed to become a force that is open to all genders.

20 Jan 2023
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INS Mormugao All Set To Enhance India’s Maritime Prowess

On Sunday, the stealth-guided missile destroyer INS Mormugao will be commissioned into the Indian Navy, considerably boosting the country's maritime dominance and defense capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. INS Mormugao is Project 15B's second stealth-guided missile destroyer. On November 21, last year, INS Visakhapatnam was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy. Project 15B's four ships were covered by a contract signed in 2011. The Project's four ships have the names of significant cities: Visakhapatnam, Mormugao, Imphal, and Surat. The ship, made of domestic steel, would be among one of the largest destroyers ever manufactured in India. INS Mormugao, named after a Goan city, is designed by the Warship Design Bureau, the Indian Navy’s in-house organization, and built by Mazagaon Dock Shipbuilders. A statement from the Indian Navy revealed that the ship is 163 metres long and 17 metres wide, with a displacement of 7,400 tonnes when fully loaded and has a maximum speed of 30 knots. According to the Indian Navy, the project has about 75% indigenous content overall. Major indigenous weapons like Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles, BrahMos, Torpedo Tube and Rocket launchers have been installed on the destroyer. Launched on September 17, 2016, the ship set off for its initial sea mission on December 19 last year on the occasion of the anniversary of Goa Liberation Day.

17 Dec 2022
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