Syllabus: GS-III, Subject: Internal Security, Topic: Border Management( Maritime Security), Issue: India’s new naval base in Lakshadweep
INS Jatayu:
- Second naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti.
- It will have additional infrastructure, including an airfield and housing.
- The proposed airfield will allow operations for a range of aircraft, including the P8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft and fighter jets.
Significance:
- Enhances operational capability of the Navy in the region.
- Bolster anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the western Arabian Sea.
- Crucial to counter growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Aligns with the government’s focus on comprehensive development of the islands.
| Prelims connect (Lakshadweep Island):
· An archipelago of 36 islands located between 220 km and 440 km from Kochi. · Only 11 of the Lakshadweep islands are inhabited, with a total area of 32 sq km. · Strategically positioned in the Indian Ocean, adjacent to the Maldives and the Chagos archipelago. · Minicoy Island is strategically located along vital Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs). |
