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‘Surat’ warship emblem unveiled in the esteemed presence of Chief Minister in Surat

Acknowledging Surat’s rich shipbuilding legacy, the Indian Navy named the warship emblem ‘Surat’

The coastline of Surat stands as a testament to the magnificent maritime trade of ancient times: CM Shri Bhupendra Patel

CM Shri Bhupendra Patel :-
• The name ‘Surat’ adorning the battleship’s crest is a tribute to the entirety of Gujarat, including the city of Surat.
• In ancient times, Surat held a pivotal role in sustaining maritime trade and fostering international commercial relationships.

The crest of the ‘Surat’ warship was revealed in the presence of CM Shri Bhupendra Patel and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R. Harikumar in Surat. The Indian Navy has paid tribute to Surat’s ancient shipbuilding legacy by naming the emblem of its cutting-edge fourth missile destroyer warship ‘Surat.’ During the unveiling ceremony of the distinguished and majestic ‘Surat Warship Crest,’ the CM highlighted that four next-generation missile destroyers have been developed as part of the Indian Navy’s latest Warship Project-B. Among them, ‘Surat’ has been officially designated as the fourth warship, marking a moment of pride for the entire state. This occasion marks the first instance of a warship being named after a city in Gujarat.

Referring to Gujarat’s historic maritime trade, the CM highlighted that Surat, Lothal, Ghogha, and Bharuch were once prominent hubs of sea commerce. At a point in time, Surat boasted a remarkable eighty-four operational ports. In ancient times, Surat played a pivotal role in supporting overseas maritime trade and commercial relationships. The coastal stretch of Surat bears testament to the grandeur of its maritime trade during ancient eras, and today, it witnesses the dawn of modern India.

The CM also emphasized the vigilance of the Marine Commandos and Coast Guards of Gujarat in protecting the sea border. He pointed out that Gujarat is actively contributing to strengthening security activities for the Indian Navy. With India’s swift progress in defense sector manufacturing under the leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi, he expressed confidence that the Surat Warship will enhance the capabilities of the Indian Navy and expedite our journey towards AatmaNirbharta.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R. Harikumar pointed out that in the historical period spanning the 16th to the 18th century, Surat held a significant position in shipbuilding and maritime trade. The warship ‘Surat’ bears the name of this vibrant city, the economic hub of Gujarat, which is renowned for its ancient and prosperous maritime history and shipbuilding heritage. This step will strengthen the bond between Surat and the Indian Navy.

Ensuring a robust sense of responsibility is a fundamental duty for any armed force, with the Navy, in particular, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s security and the advancement of the blue economy.

Rear Admiral Shri Anil Jaggi, the Flag Officer Gujarat Naval Area Commander, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, including the Chief Minister, and provided an overview of the Indian Navy’s Surat Crest.

During this event, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R. Harikumar, along with senior Navy officials, presented a model of the Surat warship to the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister also signed the Navy’s commemorative pillar.

A video presentation showcasing the nation’s AatmaNirbharta in shipbuilding and the ‘Surat’ battleship was screened. The Chief of Naval Staff delivered a detailed presentation on the model of the ‘Surat’ warship. Throughout the event, the Navy Band extended a warm welcome to both the Chief Minister and the Chief of the Navy.

Among the distinguished attendees were Union Minister of State for Textiles and Railways Smt. Darshanaben Jardosh, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief Vice Admiral Shri Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister, Shri Pankaj Joshi, Collector Shri Ayush Oak, Municipal Commissioner Smt. Shalini Agrawal, Commissioner of Police Shri Ajay Kumar Tomar, Mayor Shri Dakshesh Mavani, Padmashree Kanubhai Taylor, Shri Govindbhai Dholakia, Padmashri Mathurbhai Savani, Shri Laljibhai Patel, senior Navy officers and personnel.

Source: Information Department, Gujarat