Date: March 05, 2024
In a momentous occasion on March 5, 2024, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the new Administrative & Training building at the Naval War College (NWC) in Goa. The state-of-the-art edifice, named ‘Chola,’ pays homage to the mighty maritime empire of the Chola dynasty from ancient India. The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, along with other senior officers.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Rajnath Singh commended the Indian Navy for creating a world-class training facility that aligns with India’s stature among the maritime powers globally. Describing Chola Bhawan as a symbol of both naval aspirations and India’s legacy of maritime excellence, he emphasized its significance in breaking free from historical constraints and embracing India’s rich heritage.
The Raksha Mantri acknowledged Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call to take pride in India’s historical legacy and stressed the importance of a mindset shift. The Chola building, according to Shri Rajnath Singh, reflects this new mindset and serves as a testament to India’s commitment to maritime prowess and self-esteem.
Highlighting the evolution in India’s approach to security threats, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister. He noted the shift from a land-centric focus to encompassing maritime challenges, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Under Prime Minister Modi’s guidance, India has not only redefined its role in the IOR but has also emerged as the primary responder and security partner in the region.
The Raksha Mantri underlined the importance of maintaining a rules-based maritime order in the IOR and ensuring the autonomy and sovereignty of neighboring countries. He praised the Indian Navy for its readiness in fulfilling responsibilities and providing assistance to littoral countries, preventing any dominance by powerful nations in the region.
Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the significance of India’s commitment to economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbors, in line with the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision. He applauded the Navy’s role in enhancing India’s global standing and urged further strengthening of the naval capabilities.
Turning attention to the Indo-Pacific region, the Raksha Mantri acknowledged the region’s economic importance and the increasing threats such as piracy and trafficking. He praised the Navy’s efforts in maintaining security and goodwill through anti-piracy and anti-trafficking operations.
The inauguration ceremony also saw the Raksha Mantri unveiling two major piers at Naval Base, Karwar, capable of berthing aircraft carriers, landing ships, and various auxiliary vessels. These developments are part of Phase IIA of Project Seabird, reflecting India’s commitment to building a robust naval infrastructure.
Shri Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that the new facilities at NWC, Goa, will play a crucial role in training officers for India’s growing responsibilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The infrastructure developments, including the piers, were highlighted as essential components in increasing India’s strategic presence on the western coast.
The event, attended by Goa Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant, Union Minister Shri Shripad Naik, and other dignitaries, marked a significant milestone for the Naval War College. It symbolized India’s dedication to maritime excellence, military education, and fostering stronger ties with maritime neighbors.