• Source:JND

Indian Navy Operations:  Over the years, to safeguard India’s vast coastline, the Indian Navy has upheld brave operations, which reflect its sacrifice and selfless contribution in fighting for the nation of billions. The navy has also made significant efforts in rescuing and providing humanitarian services, protecting national interests and supporting allies. The Indian Navy is among the top 7 largest and most powerful navies in the world. These operations, including missions about setting free the lands and also evacuating citizens during emergencies, are the classic examples of the Indian Navy’s strategic genius and quick reaction power.

List Of Brave Operations Of The Indian Navy:

Operation  Year  Purpose
Vijay (Goa)  1961  Annexation of Goa
Trident  1971  Karachi naval strike
Python  1971  Follow-up strike on Karachi
Cactus  1988  Intervention in the Maldives
Talwar  1999  Naval support during Kargil
Sukoon  2006  Evacuation during the Lebanon War
Madath, Sea Waves, Castor  2004  Tsunami relief operations
Raahat  2015  Yemen evacuation
Nistar  2018 Cyclone rescue at Socotra (Yemen)
Searchlight  2014 

MH17 search operation

Source: Indian Navy

Operation Vijay (Goa, 1961)

The operation which resulted in the annexation of Goa under Portuguese rule resulted in a succession of air, sea, and land attacks within 36 hours. The naval forces of India surrounded the coast, blocking reinforcements and guaranteeing victory with few casualties. It was a proclamation of sovereignty in the area.

Operation Trident (Karachi, 1971)

The Indo-Pakistani War saw the Indian missile boats attack the Karachi harbour during the night and sink Pakistani ships, cutting off their supply lines. The strike, in which local missiles were used, caused massive destruction and increased the morale of the nation. It is the only combat operation for which the Navy has been rewarded with a battle honour.

Operation Python (Karachi, 1971)

This attack was a sequel to Trident, again hitting Karachi and disabling oil tanks, further devastating the logistical operations of Pakistan in its naval forces. It also showcased relentless effort and accuracy in the naval warfare on the battlefield. The move cemented the Indian supremacy in the Arabian Sea.

Also Read: Happy Indian Navy Day 2025: 20+ Lesser-Known Facts To Celebrate India’s Naval Power.

Operation Cactus (Maldives, 1988)

When a coup led by mercenaries attempted to overthrow President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the Indian troops foiled the coup by airlifting paratroopers and sending warships within hours. Soon, troops reclaimed Male, saved the president and went after rebels, restoring order. This action indicated the importance of India as a regional security provider.

Operation Talwar (Kargil, 1999)

During the Kargil war, naval ships played an important artillery support, blocked the Pakistani ports, and imposed sanctions. The presence of the fleet discouraged the escalation and supported ground troops. It was an example of multi-domain integration in aerial warfare at high altitudes.

Operation Sukoon (Lebanon, 2006)

During the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, the Navy withdrew more than 2,000 Indians and foreigners from Beirut through warships under fire. Through humanitarian heroism, crews went out in hostile waters to be safely extracted. The task showcased smooth civil-military engagement.

Madad, Sea Waves, Castor (Indian Ocean, 2004) and operations.

These relief operations have provided relief and rescued civilians in Andhra Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar and the Maldives in the form of ship-delivered supplies and rescues after the tsunami. There was destruction, and thousands were rescued by naval divers and helicopters. They made the history of the greatest large-scale mobilisation.

Also Read: Why Is Navy Day Celebrated On December 4? What Is Operation Trident | Explained

Operation Rahat (Yemen, 2015)

More than 5,000 people, including foreigners, were evacuated by warships and aircraft in conflict areas such as Aden. Threats did not stop operations, and helicopters were involved in dangerous pickups on rooftops. It was highly praised around the world in terms of efficiency.

Operation Nistar (Socotra, Yemen, 2018).

The medical evacuations by helicopters on this remote island were done by INS Sunayan, a who rescued hundreds of Indians who were trapped by Cyclone Mekunu. The crew defied the high seas to provide and rescue. This highlighted the far-reaching nature of the Navy.

Operation Searchlight (Indian Ocean, 2014).

The search for the debris of Malaysian airline MH17, which was downed in Ukraine, was supported by Indian ships. Large oceanic areas were patrolled, and it was a part of global activities. Here Indian Navy showcased the symbol of global aviation safety.

Each of the above-mentioned operations reflects the Indian Navy’s motto of Sham No Varuna, which simply means that may the god of the ocean be favourable to us. These brave operations of the Indian Navy also highlight the pride and preparation of the naval soldiers, even if a crisis is on the battlefields or in the disaster zones.

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