Team Goemkarponn
DABOLIM: The Goa Naval Area celebrated Navy Day on Wednesday with a grand event at the Navy House, Headquarters, Goa Naval Area. The occasion, which commemorates the Indian Navy’s remarkable Operation Trident during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, was graced by Goa Governor Shreedharan Pillai as the Chief Guest.
The event witnessed the presence of retired and serving senior naval officers, and prominent civilian dignitaries. Among the other attendees were Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho, Environment Minister Alex Sequeira, Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar, and Mormugao Municipal Council Chairperson Girish Borker.
Rear Admiral Ajay D. Theophilus, Flag Officer Commanding Goa Area, addressed the gathering and highlighted the Navy’s contributions over the past year, including its vital role in assisting civil administration during emergencies.
The celebrations featured a captivating operational demonstration and flypast by naval aircraft, a high-speed run by Fast Interceptor Crafts, a demonstration by a Chetak helicopter.
A ceremonial beating retreat by the Naval Band delighted the guests, leaving them tapping their feet and filled with joy.
Children from Navy Children School (NCS) and Naval Kintergarden (NKG) showcased patriotic performances, including dances and messages, which added a lively touch to the event.
The festivities concluded with a grand sunset ceremony, the screening of a Navy Day telefilm, and the illumination of naval ships at anchorage, offering a spectacular view followed by a lot of fireworks .
Observed every year on December 4, Navy Day marks the anniversary of Operation Trident, a decisive mission during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. The Indian Navy’s swift and daring missile boat attack on Karachi harbor caught the enemy by surprise and was instrumental in India’s victory.
The event was a fitting tribute to the bravery and dedication of the Indian Navy, reaffirming its vital role in safeguarding the nation’s defence and maritime interests.
