PANAJI
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that the upcoming dual-use Naval Air Station at Karwar will enhance tourism in South Goa besides the adjoining North Karnataka as he inaugurated the new Administrative and Training building at the Naval War College (NWC) in Verem on Tuesday.
“The new building will go a long way in training the officers on the growing and crucial role of the Indian Navy in the Indo-Pacific Region. Through innovative training, it will not only enhance the military capability of the trainees but also make them aware of the new perspective and focus on the country’s economic interest,” he said.
Singh further inaugurated two major piers in the Naval Base, Karwar -- capable of simultaneous berthing of two Aircraft Carriers and one Landing Ship Tank (Large).
The Auxiliary vessel Pier would host Fast Attack Craft, Interceptor Craft and Auxiliary Craft. The piers would also provide various shore-based services, such as power, potable water, chilled water for air conditioning and other domestic services to the ships.
These infrastructure developments are part of ongoing Phase IIA of Project Seabird which will accommodate 32 ships/submarines, 23 yard craft, a dual-use Naval Air Station, a complete Naval Dockyard, four covered dry berths and logistics for ships/aircraft.
“It will house around 10,000 uniformed and civilian personnel with families, significantly boosting the local economy and industrial growth. The Naval Air Station with Civil Enclave is anticipated to enhance tourism in North Karnataka and South Goa,” he added.
He further claimed that the ongoing construction has created 7,000 direct and 20,000 indirect jobs with over 90 percent of materials sourced domestically.
The NWC, named the 'Chola’, pays homage to the mighty maritime empire of the Chola dynasty of ancient India. An inaugural special postage stamp was also released to commemorate the event as he also inspected the Guard of Honour before dedicating the Chola building to the Armed Forces.
