India is gearing up to showcase its naval prowess on December 4, 2024, during the Indian Navy Day celebrations in Puri, Odisha. The event will be hosted by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the Chief of Naval Staff, and will feature the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, as the chief guest. The day serves as an opportunity to underline the Indian Navy’s crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.
Celebrated annually, Indian Navy Day commemorates a significant moment in history—the Indian Navy’s daring attack on Karachi Harbour during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, known as Operation Trident. This operation resulted in the sinking of several Pakistani ships, establishing the Navy’s reputation as a formidable force in maritime warfare.
Each year, Navy Day emphasizes the significance of the Indian Navy as a protector of the country’s maritime boundaries and instills a sense of national pride. The theme for 2024 is “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation,” reflecting the Navy’s commitment to modernize operations while enhancing its indigenous capabilities.
The day will be marked by a variety of celebrations, including naval parades, aerial displays, ship visits, exhibitions, and seminars focusing on maritime security. Social media campaigns and quizzes are also planned to engage the public, inviting widespread participation in honoring the Navy’s contributions.
The Indian Navy plays a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime trade and commerce and protecting its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It also actively participates in international maritime operations and exercises, enhancing collaboration with navies around the globe.
In a bid to keep pace with modern warfare demands, the Indian Navy is undergoing significant modernization efforts. This includes a focus on indigenizing shipbuilding and equipment, acquiring advanced submarines, aircraft carriers, and warships, and developing vital maritime infrastructure.
International collaboration remains a cornerstone of the Indian Navy’s strategy, as it engages in bilateral and multilateral exercises with foreign navies, contributes to international maritime organizations, and provides humanitarian assistance during disaster relief operations.
For this year’s event, at least 24 ships and submarines, along with more than 40 aircraft, will be showcased. Support will come from Marine Commandos (MARCOS) and personnel from the Indian Army, illustrating the Navy’s multidimensional capabilities.
The highlight of the Navy Day 2024 celebrations is expected to be dynamic aerial displays featuring MiG-29K and Hawk fighter jets, along with combat exercises by MARCOS. Spectators can anticipate demonstrations of submarine operations, amphibious landings, and rocket firings from warships.
As the day winds down, the Eastern Naval Command Band will perform the traditional Beating the Retreat Ceremony, culminating in a precision drill, followed by a spectacular drone-and-laser show to entertain attendees. This multi-faceted celebration aims not only to honor the Indian Navy’s storied past but also to emphasize its evolving role in contemporary maritime security.
