Historic Commissioning of INS Imphal Marks Milestone for Indian Navy
Mumbai, Maharashtra - The Commissioning Ceremony of 'INS Imphal,' a major warship named after a city in the Northeast, witnessed significant statements from Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Admiral Kumar emphasized the symbolism behind naming a warship after Imphal, acknowledging the diverse community of about 400 personnel from Manipur.
Addressing concerns over rising piracy and drone attacks, Admiral R Hari Kumar highlighted the Indian Navy's proactive stance. He revealed that since November 19, there had been a total of 30 drone and piracy attacks, prompting robust actions to protect merchant shipping. The Navy plans to board and search suspicious vessels, particularly focusing on the Red Sea where 50% of these attacks occurred. Importantly, no attacks targeted Indian-flagged merchant vessels.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking at the Commissioning Ceremony, acknowledged the heightened turbulence in the seas and the recent drone attacks on 'MV Chem Pluto' in the Arabian Sea and 'MV Sai Baba' in the Red Sea. He assured a thorough investigation, stating that those responsible for the attacks would be found, even if it required searching from the seabed. The Defence Minister stressed India's growing economic and strategic power, which has stirred jealousy and hatred, necessitating increased naval surveillance.
Singh expressed pride in the induction of 'INS Imphal,' highlighting its significance in showcasing India's self-reliance in the defence sector. He commended the collaboration between Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), the Navy, and all stakeholders, believing that the commissioning of INS Imphal would bolster the Indian Navy and contribute to national security.
The ceremony not only marked a historic moment for the Indian Navy but also underscored the country's commitment to strengthening its naval capabilities and ensuring maritime security in the face of evolving challenges.
