In December 2024, Indian Navy Day was celebrated with which theme?

The correct answer is Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenization.

Key Points

• Indian Navy Day is celebrated annually on December 4 to commemorate Operation Trident, a key naval operation during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
• The theme for Indian Navy Day 2024, "Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenization," emphasizes the Navy's focus on achieving self-reliance and innovation in defense technology.
• It aligns with the Indian government's flagship initiative, ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat,’ aimed at reducing dependency on foreign defense imports.
• The Indian Navy has been actively pursuing indigenization programs, including the development of aircraft carriers like INS Vikrant and advanced warships under the ‘Make in India’ framework.
• Events such as air displays, ship visits, and technology exhibitions showcase the Navy's operational capabilities and advancements in indigenous defense systems.

Additional Information

• Operation Trident:
  • Operation Trident was a naval attack conducted on Karachi harbor during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
  • The Indian Navy deployed missile boats to inflict significant damage to Pakistan's naval and merchant vessels.
  • This operation marked the Navy's first use of anti-ship missiles, showcasing its strategic prowess.
• INS Vikrant:
  • INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier commissioned in 2022.
  • It represents a major achievement in India's shipbuilding and defense capabilities under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
  • The carrier enhances India's maritime security and regional influence.
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat:
  • This initiative was launched by PM Narendra Modi in 2020 to promote self-reliance across sectors, including defense.
  • It aims to strengthen indigenous manufacturing and reduce dependency on foreign imports.
  • In defense, projects like the development of advanced fighter jets, submarines, and warships are being pursued under this initiative.
• Indian Navy's Indigenization Efforts:
  • The Indian Navy has achieved over 70% indigenization in warship and submarine construction.
  • Notable projects include the Scorpène-class submarines and stealth frigates under the Project 75 and Project 17A programs.
  • The Navy collaborates with Indian industries, research organizations, and academia to advance indigenous technologies.