Context:

Indian Navy will commission Naval Detachment Minicoy as INS Jatayu on 06 Mar 2024. 

Expanding Maritime Presence: INS Jatayu and Naval Developments in Lakshadweep

• INS Jatayu is the second Naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti. 
• In 1980s: Naval Detachment Minicoy was set up in early 1980s under the operational command of Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep). 

INS Jatayu: Bolstering Security and Connectivity in Lakshadweep

• Strengthening the Foothold: With the commissioning of INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy will strengthen its foothold in the Lakshadweep islands.
• Monitor & Surveillance: It will help in extending operational surveillance, reach and sustenance.
  • India is suspicious of China’s growing presence in the archipelago nation and the new base will extend India’s “operational surveillance” of the area.
• Comprehensive Development: It will begin a new era of capacity building and comprehensive development of the Lakshadweep islands.
• To Quick Respond: The new base will enhance the Navy’s overall operational capability and reach in the region, facilitating efforts towards anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the western Arabian Sea. 
  • It will also serve as a first responder in the region and improve connectivity with the mainland.
• For Security: It is an important milestone in the security infrastructure at the strategically important Lakshadweep Islands.

Minicoy Island: Safeguarding Vital Sea Lines of Communication in Lakshadweep

• It is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep which straddles the vital Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs).
  • About Sea lines of Communication: It is a term describing the primary maritime routes between ports, used for trade, logistics and naval forces. 
    • It is generally used in reference to naval operations to ensure that SLOCs are open, or in times of war, to close them.

Map of Lakshadweep

Conclusion:

The establishment of INS Jatayu demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to tapping India’s geographical advantage to further maritime interests.

News Source: PIB