The people of the city are more aware on maritime issues than most other places in India, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command Vice Admiral Anil Chopra said.
Addressing the media here onboard Indian Navy stealth Frigate INS Sahyadri in connection with the Navy Day 2013 Celebrations, he said that the Indian Navy was keen on the development of the port city. The Navy Operations Demonstration is conducted only here due to its location and atmosphere, he pointed out. The airport would operate 24x7x365 from January 1, 2014, he announced.
The stationing of Advanced Jet Training squadron at INS Dega would not be hampered by the operations of the civilian flights, he said. He welcomed the move of the National Airports Authority of India to establish a cargo handling unit here.
The ENC Chief thanked the people of Visakhapatnam for their support to the Navy in conducting the Navy Day 2013 celebrations and extended his best wishes to them on the occasion.
He said the Navy in association with the National Maritime Foundation was conducting outreach activities to promote awareness on Navy and its operations.
The NMF was conducting activities at all levels, including schools and colleges, he noted. The Navy was alert and extending all help during humanitarian crises like natural calamities in the region.
It has contributed logistic support and skilled personnel to aid and assist the civil administration during crises caused by natural calamities like cyclones and floods.
Naval band’s concert
On the eve of Navy Day, the naval band conducted a symphonic concert at the Samudrika Naval Auditorium on Tuesday.
Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command Vice Admiral Anil Chopra witnessed the 75-minute concert by the band. The versatile naval band showcased its capability by performing a variety of military music.
The concert, under the baton of Director, Lieutenant Commander VC DCruz, opened with a marching tune titled Old Comrades followed by military band arrangements of Western Classical, popular, Hindi and patriotic music.
