January 2022

INS Khukri (P49), the first indigenously built missile corvette of Indian Navy, was handed over to the Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu (DNHDD) Administration on 26 January 2022.  In an elegantly conducted but solemn ceremony held at the INS Khukri Memorial, Diu, Rear Admiral Ajay Vinay Bhave, Flag Officer Doctrine and Concepts, handed over the decommissioned ship formally to Shri Praful Patel, Hon'ble Administrator of the Union Territory of DNHDD & Lakshadweep.

In a boost to maritime security, the indigenous Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) MK III aircraft was formally inducted at INS Utkrosh by Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN) Lieutenant General Ajai Singh at Port Blair on January 28, 2022. As the rotor blades of the versatile helicopter cut through the air, aircraft were ceremonially welcomed into ANC with a traditional water cannon salute. The induction marks a continuing increase in the capabilities of the A&N Command in the past two decades of its raising as India’s only joint theatre command. 

Contract for construction of 50Ton Bollard Pull Tugs was concluded with  M/s Hindustan Shipyard Ltd, Visakhapatnam in Feb 19. The Fourth tug in the series, “Balbir” has been delivered to Naval Dockyard, Mumbai on 24 Jan 22. These tugs have been designed and built under the classification rules of Indian Register for Shipping (IRS) with a service life of 20 years and are capable of assisting large naval ships, including Aircraft Carrier and Submarines in berthing, un-berthing, turning and manoeuvering in confined waters and in harbour.

General Manoj Mukund Naravane, Chief of Army Staff concluded a two day visit to Bhopal today. Lieutenant General JS Nain, Southern Army Commander was also present during the visit. The COAS was briefed by the Sudarshan Chakra Corps Commander and other commanders on operational preparedness and on the reforms being undertaken towards transforming the formation into a modern, cohesive, lean and agile war fighting force.