Minicoy Island. (Google Earth)
New Delhi: The Indian Navy is set to enhance its operational capability by commissioning INS Jatayu, a new naval base at Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep, on March 6, 2024, the Navy said on Saturday. The ceremony will be attended by the Navy chief, Admiral Radhakrishnan Hari Kumar.
This is seen as a significant milestone in the Navy’s efforts to gradually improve security infrastructure on the strategically critical Lakshadweep Islands.
Minicoy is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep, which lies along the vital sea lines of communication (SLOCs). Naval Detachment Minicoy was established in the early 1980s under the operational command of the naval officer in charge, Lakshadweep. The establishment of an independent naval unit with the required infrastructure and resources will boost the overall operational capability of the Indian Navy in the islands.
The base will enhance operational reach and facilitate the Navy’s operational effort towards anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the western Arabian Sea. It will also augment the Indian Navy's capability as the first responder in the region and improve connectivity with the mainland. The establishment of a naval base is in line with India’s current focus on comprehensive development of the islands.
INS Jatayu is the second naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti. With the commissioning of INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy will strengthen its presence in the Lakshadweep islands and, along with extending operational surveillance, reach and sustenance, it will usher in a new era of capacity building and comprehensive development of the island territories.
