The Indian Navy is set to showcase its steadfast dedication to Nari Shakti during the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on January 26.
Emphasising the inclusion of women in various role and across all ranks, the naval tableau will serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment towards gender equality within the naval forces, as announced by officials on Wednesday.
The Indian Navy contingent for the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path is set to feature three accomplished female platoon commanders: Lieutenants Mudita Goyal, Sharvani Supreiya, and Devika H. This notable inclusion underscores the Navy’s commitment to gender diversity and the pivotal role women play in leadership positions. The Navy is set to make history as 144 young men and women march down the esteemed Kartavya path together for the first time, showcasing a diverse composition.
A groundbreaking naval tableau at the parade will showcase the first fully indigenous Carrier Battle Group. The ensemble includes INS Vikrant, escort ships Delhi, Kolkata, Shivalik, Kalvari class submarine, light combat aircraft, advanced light helicopter, GSAT-7, and Rukmani satellite. Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh emphasizes that the Navy’s participation is not just a display of might but a commitment to safeguarding the nation’s strategic interests.
Admiral emphasis gender neutrality
In an interaction with the press, Vice Admiral Singh articulated that the upcoming tableau not only highlights the Navy’s dedication to ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defense but also underscores its emphasis on gender neutrality. Beyond symbolizing gender inclusivity, the contingent aims to protect the nation’s military prowess and unwavering commitment to safeguarding strategic interests in the maritime domain. Against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Red Sea, the showcase serves as a powerful display of India’s preparedness to address and mitigate challenges on the international stage.
Vice Admiral Singh emphasized that the central theme of the naval tableau revolves around ‘Aatmanirbharta,’ highlighting significant indigenous achievements by “Bharat.” Currently, among the 66 ships and submarines in construction, an impressive 64 are taking shape in Indian shipyards. The tableau prominently features the groundbreaking concept of the first entirely indigenous carrier battle group (CBG), where INS Vikrant stands as the most potent symbol embodying the nation’s visionary aspirations. Serving as the core of this representation, INS Vikrant underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in naval capabilities and signifies a significant stride towards achieving indigenous excellence in maritime endeavours.
Presently, the Navy boasts a contingent of 680 women officers, with ongoing efforts evident in the recruitment of 1,119 women Agniveers.
Naval Power Projection in Our Region
The Chief of Naval Staff highlighted the maritime strength of the Carrier Battle Group (CBG), emphasizing its support for INS Vikrant with formidable vessels like Kolkata, Delhi, and Shivalik classes. The Kalvari-class submarine operates in tandem, backed by ISRO’s Rukmani satellite. INS Kolkata, INS Kochi, and INS Chennai combat piracy in the Arabian Sea. Recently, INS Chennai thwarted a piracy attempt off the Somalian coast. The Navy showcases gender inclusivity with a mixed platoon in the marching contingent, led by Lt Prajwal, highlighting Nari Shakti in a tableau, depicting the Navy’s commitment to gender neutrality and strength as an institution.
