This is why we celebrate Indian Navy Day

New Delhi: Every year December 4 is observed as Navy Day to celebrate the achievement of the Indian Naval forces.

The Indian Navy is the marine branch of the Indian Armed Forces and is led by the President of India as Commander-in-Chief.

The Maratha Emperor, Chhatrapati Shivaji Bhonsle of the 17th century is considered as 'Father of the Indian Navy'.

It is celebrated in the memory of the bravery of Indian navy who defeated Pakistan in war in 1971.

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Indian navy attacked the Karachi district of Pakistan under 'Operation Trident' on December 4, 1971. Under Operation Trident, the Indian warships fired six missiles and sank four enemy warships including a cargo ship at the Karachi harbour and returned to Mumbai without any damage to the Indian warships. Almost 500 Pakistani personnel were killed in the Operation.

Three missile boats of the Indian Navy, INS Nipat, INS Nirghat, and INS Veer, played a pivotal role in the attack.

In order to celebrate this occasion, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy, headquartered in Mumbai, bring their ships and sailors for making the celebration excellent.

The navy which is commemorating the 47th Navy Day on Tuesday will put up an impressive show of skill amid a sea of colours at the Gateway of India in Mumbai.

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President Ram Nath Kovind tweeted, "On Navy Day, my good wishes to all men and women of the Indian Navy. Nation is proud of your commitment to protecting our maritime frontiers, securing our trade routes, and providing assistance in times of humanitarian emergencies #PresidentKovind".

https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1069765732114649090

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted that "India is grateful to the Navy". "Navy Day greetings to all valorous personnel of the Indian Navy and their families. India is grateful to our Navy for protecting the nation and the commendable role the Navy plays during disaster relief," he wrote.

https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1069790442588381187

Union Minister Piyush Goyal twitter, "I salute our Navy personnel for the impregnable spirit, devotion with which they serve & protect our Motherland."

https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1069765230828359680

On the eve of Navy Day, Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba assured the nation that the Navy is prepared to guard Indian waters. "I am assuring the nation that Navy keeping round-the-clock vigil on India's maritime domain," Lanba said. "Navy looking at inducting 56 warships and submarines to enhance its strength," Lanba further said.