India has strategically positioned itself to fortify its naval capabilities in the Indian Ocean by finalizing plans to establish a naval base in Minicoy, the southernmost island of Lakshadweep. Scheduled for commissioning later this week on March 6, 2024, in the presence of Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Naval Base at Minicoy symbolizes a significant milestone in bolstering India’s maritime security, particularly amidst evolving dynamics in the region.
The commissioning of INS Jatayu, as highlighted by Indian Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal, marks a crucial step towards enhancing operational readiness and strengthening the security infrastructure in Lakshadweep.
Importance
Because Minicoy Island is part of the important sea-line of communication. In such a situation, an independent unit with necessary infrastructure and resources (warships, aircraft etc.) will increase the capabilities of the Indian Navy in Lakshadweep Island.
This strategic move not only extends India’s operational reach for anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations but also serves as a proactive response to emerging geopolitical shifts, notably the proximity of Minicoy Island to Maldives amidst growing ties between Male and Beijing.
According to the Indian Navy, this naval base will increase the operational reach for anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the Western Arabian Sea. With this, the Indian Navy will be able to play an effective role as a first responder in this area.
The distance of Minicoy Island is just 500 kilometers from Maldives. India’s concerns were increasing due to the way relations between Maldives and India have soured in recent months and Male has come closer to China. Only last week, China’s spy ship had reached Maldives. In such a situation, it was very important that the Indian Navy increased its footprint in Lakshadweep.
About INS Jatayu
INS Jatayu, named after the vulture character from the Ramayana, signifies India’s commitment to safeguarding its interests and ensuring stability in the region through enhanced maritime capabilities.
INS Jatayu will be the second naval base of the Indian Navy in Lakshadweep. Lakshadweep already has the INS island-protector base at Kavaratti. Through Jatayu, the surveillance and reach of the Indian Navy in this area will not only be strengthened, but there will be overall development of the country’s islands.