The Indian Navy is set to play a prominent role in the upcoming 76th Republic Day parade, showcasing its latest warships and submarine, and underscoring its commitment to self-reliance in defence production.
The Navy's tableau will feature the newly commissioned INS Surat, a guided missile destroyer, INS Nilgiri, a stealth frigate, and INS Vaghsheer, a Scorpene-class submarine, under the theme "Atmanirbhar Nausena se Rashtra Nirman" (Nation Building through Self-Reliant Navy).
Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty highlighted the significance of the tableau, stating that it represents India's growing naval strength and its commitment to indigenous defence manufacturing.
The tableau, commanded by Lt Cdr Mamta Sihag and Lt Vipul Singh Gahlaut, will showcase the capabilities of these new vessels. A 144-strong marching contingent, comprising young sailors with an average age of 25, will also participate in the parade, led by Lt Cdr Saahil Ahluwalia.
The commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer marks a significant step towards India's goal of becoming a global leader in naval shipbuilding. INS Surat, built under Project 15B, boasts 75% indigenous content, including advanced weapon systems and network-centric capabilities.
INS Nilgiri, a product of Project 17A, features enhanced stealth and survivability features designed by the Indian Navy's own Warship Design Bureau. INS Vaghsheer, the last of the six Scorpene-class submarines built under Project 75 in collaboration with France's Naval Group, represents India's growing expertise in submarine construction.
Vice Admiral McCarty emphasized that these achievements reflect India's evolving maritime strategy and its focus on self-reliance. The tableau aims to capture this by visually depicting the commissioning of these vessels, symbolizing India's commitment to both economic prosperity and national security.
This emphasis on indigenous shipbuilding aligns with recent statements by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who highlighted the economic benefits of the sector.
During an address at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, the Prime Minister noted that every rupee invested in shipbuilding generates a nearly twofold positive impact on the economy.
With 60 large ships currently under construction in India, valued at approximately Rs 1.5 lakh crore, the industry is poised to generate significant economic activity and employment opportunities.
Adding a musical dimension to the celebrations, the Indian Navy band, led by MCPO Musician first class M Antony Raj, will participate in the Republic Day parade and the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29.
The 80-member band, which includes six women musicians for the first time, will perform a variety of patriotic tunes and showcase impressive formations.
The Indian Navy's participation in the Republic Day parade underscores its crucial role in safeguarding India's maritime interests and contributing to the nation's economic growth. As India strives to become a developed nation, a strong and self-reliant navy remains vital for ensuring both security and prosperity.
The Navy's efforts in indigenous shipbuilding and its display of naval strength during the Republic Day celebrations reflect its commitment to these national goals.
