INS Jatayu At Minicoy Island
Source: PIB
GS III: Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate; Prelims
Overview
- About INS Jatayu At Minicoy Island
- About Minicoy Island Lakshadweep
Why in the News?
Indian Navy will commission Naval Detachment Minicoy as INS Jatayu
About INS Jatayu At Minicoy Island
- The event marks an important milestone in the Navy’s resolve to incrementally augment security infrastructure at the strategically important Lakshadweep Islands.
- Naval Detachment Minicoy was set up in the early 1980s under the operational command of Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep).
- Minicoy is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep which straddles the vital Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs).
- Basing of an independent Naval unit with requisite infrastructure and resources will enhance the overall operational capability of the Indian Navy in the islands.
Importance of Naval Base at Minicoy Island
- The base will enhance the operational reach and facilitate the Indian Navy’s efforts towards Anti-Piracy, Maritime Security, Coastal Surveillance and Anti-Narcotics Operations in the Western Arabian Sea.
- It will also augment the Indian Navy’s capability as the first responder in the region and augment connectivity with the mainland.
- Establishing a Naval base is in line with the Govt of India’s focus towards the comprehensive development of the Lakshadweep Islands.
- INS Jatayu is the second Naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti.
- With the commissioning of INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy will strengthen its foothold in the Lakshadweep islands and along with extending operational surveillance, reach and sustenance, it will usher in a new era of capacity building and comprehensive development of the island territories.
- The base will help the Island’s Defense and easy to conduct Naval Exercises.
- This also enhances Naval Operations through Military Presence.
- Lakshadweep Archipelago, a strategic location can serve as a vantage point to monitor any movement of pirate vessels in the Arabian Sea through Maritime Patrol.
About Minicoy Island Lakshadweep
Minicoy Island, located in the Lakshadweep archipelago of India, is a stunning destination known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and
unique geographical features. This southernmost island of the Lakshadweep group is distinct from the other islands due to its culture, language, and traditions, which have been influenced by Maldivian culture over the centuries.
Details
- Geography: Minicoy Island is the second-largest island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, covering an area of approximately 4.8 square miles (12.4 square kilometres).
- Location: It is situated about 200 kilometres to the southwest of the main island of Lakshadweep, Kavaratti.
- Culture and Language: The inhabitants of Minicoy Island are primarily of Maldivian descent and speak Mahl, a dialect of Divehi, the language spoken in the Maldives. This sets them apart from the other islands of Lakshadweep, where Malayalam is the predominant language.
- Lighthouse: One of the prominent landmarks of Minicoy is its towering lighthouse, built by the British in 1885. The lighthouse stands at a height of 300 feet (91 meters) and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding turquoise waters.
- Tuna Fishing: Minicoy is renowned for its traditional tuna fishing techniques. The islanders use pole-and-line fishing methods, which are not only sustainable but also environmentally friendly.
- Tourism: While relatively less visited compared to other tourist destinations in India, Minicoy Island is gaining popularity among travellers seeking offbeat experiences. Its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and warm hospitality attract tourists looking for a tranquil escape.
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