Embassy of IndiaYangon, Myanmar

Goodwill Visit of Three Indian Navy Ships comprising 1 Training Squadron of the Indian Navy to Myanmar from 27 to 30 Apr 14

1. Three Indian Navy Ships (INS) comprising 1 Training Squadron of the Indian Navy will pay a goodwill visit to Myanmar from 27 to 30 Apr 14. The ships will be berthed at MITT, Yangon. The 1 Training Squadron comprises INS Gharial, INS Sujata and Coast Guard Ship Varuna. 125 officer cadets from the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard are embarked onboard the ships. The Training Squadron has visited Singapore and Phuket prior arriving at Yangon. Such goodwill visits provide an opportunity for the young officer cadets to plan for and undertake long ocean passage and understand firsthand the varied nuances involved in sailing across the seas. They also get to understand the maritime environment and practice the skills that they have previously learnt in the Academy.
2. INS Gharial is a 5600 ton Landing Ship Tank (Large) that is not only capable of ‘beaching’ and off loading tanks, vehicles, equipment and men but can also perform the role of fleet tanker and provide fuel to friendly ships at sea. The ship is designed to carry two Seaking Class helicopters. The ship is commanded by Cdr Happy Mohan. He is also the Senior Officer of the visiting ships.
3. INS Sujata is an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) and has high endurance for carrying out EEZ and maritime patrols. The ship can carry one Seaking helicopter. The ship is commanded by Cdr Mahesh Rahangdale.
4. CGS Varuna is an OPV from the Indian Coast Guard and has been purpose built for coast guard duties. Thus the ship not only has high endurance but is also fitted with necessary equipment for controlling and nullifying oil pollution at sea. The ship can carry one Chetak helicopter. The ship is commanded by Cdr SA Sharma.
5. During the visit to Yangon the Commanding Officers will meet and interact with high ranking officials in the state administration and military. It is also planned to conduct a Free Medical Camp at Thanlyin District Hospital, in Yangon Region, on 29 Apr 14. Besides some Community Social Activities will also be undertaken. The Indian Naval Band, embarked onboard the ships, will perform at the National Theatre on 29 Apr 14. The concert is entitled ‘HARMONY AND FRIENDSHIP ACROSS THE SEAS’ and is open to all.
6. The Naval Cadets and personnel from the ships will visit places of historical and cultural significance in Yangon and Bago regions and get an insight into the history and culture of Myanmar. The visit and interactions amongst the high ranking officials would undoubtedly provide further momentum to consolidate the friendly relations between India and Myanmar.

April 24, 2014