The Indian Navy on 26th April established a new Naval Detachment (NAVDET) at Androth islands of Lakshadweep. The Naval base is aimed at enhancing the Navy’s reach and surveillance of Arabian Sea waters.
It was inaugurated by Vice-Admiral Girish Luthra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command.
The charge of the detachment has been given to OIC Lt Cdr Angom B Singh, who in turn will function under the naval officer-in-charge (Lakshadweep and Minicoy Island). The setting up of the detachment in a time bound manner has been possible due to concerted efforts by the teams at L&M islands, with the support of all agencies.
Lakshadweep and Minicoy Islands occupy a strategic location in the Arabian Sea. A number of shipping lanes pass close to these islands which connect Asia and Europe. Setting up of a Naval Detachment at Androth Island will enhance the Navy’s reach and surveillance, and contribute significantly to strengthen maritime security and stability.
Suitable ships are also being based at the islands to provide enhanced surveillance and immediate response capability.
As part of larger measures the Naval Detachment at Kavaratti was commissioned as a naval establishment, INS Dweeprakshak, in 2012.
A number of infrastructure facilities at naval units located on Kavaratti, Minicoy, Agatti and Androth islands are also being progressively upgraded, boosting the Indian Navy’s reach in the Sea and increase the efficiency of operations to be performed in near future.
