Puri is gearing up for the Navy Day celebrations on December 4, with a two-day rehearsal commencing on Sunday at the picturesque Blue Flag beach in Odisha. The preparations are notable, with President Droupadi Murmu set to attend the festivities, making the occasion particularly significant.
As part of the celebrations, the Indian Navy will showcase an impressive display featuring 15 warships and 40 aircraft, highlighting its operational capabilities and commitment to national security. Navy Day is observed annually on December 4 to honor India’s victory over Pakistan during the 1971 war, and this year marks a special occasion as the Navy will demonstrate its operations in Odisha for the first time.
Commander B. Deepak Aneel, the commanding officer of INS Chilka, emphasized the scale and grandeur of the upcoming event. He stated that preparations started months in advance, ensuring a well-coordinated and spectacular show. The display will include not only ships and submarines but also various marine commandos, who will perform combat demonstrations, including stealth operations by the elite MARCOS commandos.
The occasion serves as a testament to the readiness and valor of the Indian Navy in protecting the nation’s maritime interests. Puri District Collector Siddharth S. Swain highlighted the active collaboration between the district administration and the Navy to facilitate the event. He mentioned that infrastructure improvements have been made to enhance the experience for spectators, ensuring that people can fully enjoy the demonstrations on the beach.
To maintain safety and security, Swain confirmed that adequate police deployment has been organized in both the beach area and the town, which is a popular pilgrimage destination. The showcase off the coast promises to be a breathtaking operational demonstration, reflecting the strength and versatility of the Indian naval fleet.
Local law enforcement, led by Puri Superintendent of Police Vineet Agarwal, has assured that all necessary arrangements for the rehearsals are in place. The Indian Navy also extended an invitation to Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibya Singha Deb, encouraging prominent local figures to participate in the celebrations. In addition to the naval displays, the Navy’s musical band is set to elevate the event’s atmosphere with performances of patriotic melodies and engaging concerts, further enriching the experience for attendees.
This celebratory event not only honors India’s rich maritime heritage but also provides the public with an opportunity to gain insight into the operations of the Indian Navy, fostering a deeper appreciation for the forces safeguarding the nation’s waters.
